Missouri Western gets new trees donated to improve green spaces

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), Missouri Western State University (MoWest), Forest ReLeaf of Missouri, and Nestlé Purina are coordinating a tree planting on the MoWest campus on Sept. 30. The planting project is part of an ongoing effort by MoWest and partners to improve green spaces and increase canopy coverage on campus.

The 30 large native trees (15-gallon containers) are being provided by Forest ReLeaf of Missouri and funded by Nestlé Purina, with support from MDC, and consist of serviceberry, redbud, bur oak, Kentucky coffee, willow oak and chinkapin oak. They will be planted in two separate areas with 17 trees along Mitchell Avenue and the south entrance to campus and the other 13 in the east parking lot.

“MoWest contacted us last year about initiating this project and getting recommendations on tree species with Forest ReLeaf,” said MDC Community and Private Lands Forester Courtney Horn. “We have been coordinating with Mo West and Forest Releaf to develop an ecologically cohesive planting plan taking into account the soil types and tree species best supported in the desired planting areas. The chosen variety of native tree species will provide aesthetic value and opportunities for shade while supporting the enhancement of natural plant communities on campus.”

Forest ReLeaf of Missouri is a nonprofit organization that grows and provides free trees for public and community projects statewide. Forest ReLeaf has planted more than 250,000 trees since it was founded in 1993. Learn more at moreleaf.org/.

Nestlé Purina has been part of the St. Joseph community for more than 50 years, operating two local facilities and employing more than 400 associates in the area. This tree planting project aligns with Purina's broader efforts to support healthy, resilient communities and the environment, and builds on Purina’s commitment to MoWest as a vital employment and education partner. Through partnerships like this one, Purina provides employees opportunities to take part in hands-on environmental initiatives that leave a lasting impact in the places they live and work.

“MoWest is proud to partner with the Missouri Department of Conservation, Forest ReLeaf of Missouri, and Nestlé Purina on a project that will benefit our campus and community for generations,” said MoWest Grounds Supervisor Scott Pinzino. “These trees will add beauty and shade to our campus today, while creating healthier, more welcoming green spaces for future Griffons. We are especially grateful to our partners for investing their time, expertise and resources in MoWest and in the St. Joseph community.”

MoWest is located at 4525 Downs Drive in St. Joseph. Learn more at missouriwestern.edu/.

MDC’s Northwest Regional Office is located on the campus of MoWest at 701 James McCarthy Drive in St. Joseph. Learn more at mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/places/northwest-regional-office.

For more information on the project, contact MDC Community and Private Lands Forester Courtney Horn at (816) 271-3100 ext. 1443 or courtney.horn@mdc.mo.gov.

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