Nature Connection Event – Hug a Tree at Linda Hall Library

Date: Saturday, August 9th, 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Linda Hall Library, 5109 Cherry St, KCMO 64110 (Meet at the front entrance)
Hosted by: The Resilient Activist

Event Overview:

Join us for a peaceful morning immersed in nature at the Linda Hall Library on the UMKC campus. This stunning urban arboretum is home to fourteen of Greater Kansas City's Champion trees, and we’ll take a leisurely walk among the 300 trees that adorn the grounds—perhaps even giving a few a hug along the way! 🌳

Following our tree-filled adventure, you're welcome to explore the Linda Hall Library, which is open from 10 AM to 2 PM on Saturdays. Current exhibits include "Life Beyond Earth?" and "Follow the Recipe."

What to Bring:

Comfortable walking shoes
A sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world

Optional Reading to Pair with the Event:

The Mother Tree by Suzanne Simard
Overstory by Richard Powers
The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
When I Am Among the Trees by Mary Oliver

What Makes a Champion Tree?

Champion trees are the largest of their species in Greater Kansas City, measured using a formula based on tree height, spread, and trunk circumference.

About the Champion Trees

The Linda Hall Library Arboretum is home to 16 Kansas City Champion Trees. Champion Tree status is determined using a mathematical formula based on tree height, spread, and trunk circumference. Trunk circumference is measured in inches four and one-half feet above ground. Tree height and spread are measured in feet. One point is given for each inch of trunk circumference and each foot of height. One quarter point is given for each foot of spread. The three measurements are added together to determine a tree’s point total. The designation of Champion Tree is assigned to the tree of a given genus and species with the largest point total.

Background on the Arboretum:

The Linda Hall Library’s grounds have been managed as an urban arboretum for over 75 years, featuring 51 genera and 130 species of trees. This living space was a gift from Herbert and Linda Hall, who envisioned the trees adding beauty and dignity to the Library grounds.

Come join us and reconnect with nature—this is a wonderful opportunity to recharge and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world around us!