KU to replant trees on land surrounding Campanile


LAWRENCE — Volunteers will gather around the University of Kansas Campanile to plant 24 crabapple trees along the stairways leading toward Marvin Grove and Potter Lake. The event, which will take place Friday, Oct. 27, is part of Replant Mount Oread, KU's initiative to involve the campus community in restoring historic and locally significant tree species to the campus landscape.

During Chancellor Dean Malott’s tenure (1939-1951), his wife, Eleanor, led an effort to plant more than 1,000 crabapples throughout campus. Many of those trees are at the end of their natural life and need to be replaced. This project will contribute to that effort and continue the tradition of flowering trees on Mount Oread. Past Replant projects returned crabapples to the landscape near Fraser Hall and along Irving Hill Road behind the Daisy Hill residence halls. 

Replant Mount Oread is supported by donations through KU Endowment and is participating in a LaunchKU crowdfunding campaign to raise funds for the Campanile planting. The project met its $5,000 goal within a week of starting the campaign.  However, individuals interested in supporting future Replant projects can still contribute to LaunchKU through Oct. 31.

“We are fortunate to have such strong support for our fall planting,” said Jeff Severin, director of campus planning & sustainability. “Every dollar given beyond our initial goal will go toward future plantings and ensure that we can continue this new campus tradition.”

The project is also seeking volunteers to help with the planting. Shifts start at 10:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. Participants can register at the Center for Sustainability website.

Photo: Volunteers work along Marvin Grove in spring 2017 as part of the Mount Oread Replant project. Volunteers are needed for the Oct. 27 replant event, which will add crabapple trees along the sidewalks leading from the Campanile. Photo by KU Marketing Communications

Wed, 10/25/2017

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Jeff Severin

Media Contacts

Jeff Severin

Center for Sustainability

785-864-5804