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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:
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Comfortable walking shoes
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A sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world
Optional Reading to Pair with the Event:
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The Mother Tree by Suzanne Simard
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Overstory by Richard Powers
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The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Wohlleben
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The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
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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!
Common Name: Shumard Oak
Family: Fagaceae
Collection: Champion Trees
Year Planted: 1968
Moonlit Mindfulness: A Spooky, Batty Experience
Sunday September 7th
7:30-8:30 PM
Franklin Park at Roe Ave & Somerset Dr, Prairie Village, KS 66208
Meet at the parking lot off of Roe Ave in front of the picnic pavilion (look for The Resilient Activist signs)
Join local bat enthusiast and The Resilient Activist board member Briana Anderson for a bat-watching walk in the park. Learn about the importance of bats and what we can do to support them as we search for bats flitting amongst the trees.
As the full moon rises, The Resilient Activist board member and founder of Mindfulness in the Heartland Amy Zoe Schonhoff will lead a meditation on the significance of the full moon, the transition into autumn, and our connections to our batty friends.
Bring a water bottle, jacket, and a camping chair if you have one. The walking trail is paved and suitable for wheelchairs, restrooms are located right by the picnic pavilion, and water fountains are available. Kids are welcome, as long as they’re able to stay quiet for the meditation.
Why Nature Connected Events?
In a world filled with constant distractions and uncertainty, our nature connected event offers an opportunity to reconnect with nature and find clarity under the calming glow of the moon. As we gather to observe the bats in their natural habitat, we can slow down, breathe deeply, and ground ourselves in the present moment. This unique experience invites us to embrace the beauty of nature, deepen our connection to the environment, and find collective renewal as we step away from the noise of everyday life. Let’s come together, recharged and inspired, ready to face the challenges ahead.
Contact Briana Anderson at briana@theresilientactivist.org with questions.
Photo Caption: Briana Anderson prepares to release rehabilitated bats at Lakeside Nature Center, Kansas City. Photo Credit: Briana Anderson
Bat Design Credit: Biho Takashi | Wikipedia Commons
