Memorial Bench & Tree Programs

Memorial Tree

A memorial tree is $400 and includes a 10-12 ft. tall tree (2" caliper) and a plaque. Liberty Parks & Rec (LPR) will help individuals select an appropriate species and an appropriate location for the tree. LPR will purchase plant and maintain the tree. The new trees resulting from this program provide a sense of comfort to those in need and a place of quiet reflection for the community as a whole.

If you have additional questions after reviewing the application, please contact Tom Garland, 816-439-4384 or email

Why Plant a Memorial Tree? A memorial tree can be a living remembrance of a loved one or a celebration of a happy event.  It provides a sense of belonging and community. The tree groves developed within our parks will provide a pleasant place of contemplation for our community.  They improve the quality of life in Liberty and provide a benefit and enjoyment to people who use our parks. In addition, trees are a growing and living symbol for the individuals they represent; a symbol of rebirth.  A tree is the gift that keeps growing! 

Why Does the LPRF Offer this Program? LPR received requests from residents who were familiar with Memorial Tree Programs in other communities. Memorial trees serve the dual purpose of preserving and planting trees in Liberty while also satisfying a community need for a way to honor loved ones in a positive and beneficial manner. A positive way to expand the community’s involvement in planting trees is through the creation of the Memorial Tree Program.

 Site Selection: The Parks and Recreation Department along with the Tree Board evaluates planting sites according to several criteria:

• Need for trees
• Available space for trees 
• Future development plan
• Soil type
• Accessibility for watering

Donors may select one of the approved planting locations for their Memorial Tree. Some tree species may not be available for all planting sites.

Tree Selection and Planting: One of LPR's certified arborists will help individuals select an appropriate species and an appropriate location for the tree. The trees are 10-12 feet tall with a two inch caliper. The species selected must be suitable for Liberty’s climate and soil to increase the tree’s chance of survival. If the tree should die within five years, the City will replace it at no cost to the donor. LPR, along with volunteers, plants the trees and care for them through watering, pruning, and other tree maintenance.  Memorial trees are planted at the following times:

• Trees ordered April 1 – October 15 will be planted in the fall
• Trees ordered October 16 – March 31 will be planted in the spring

Plaque Installation:  A plaque will be displayed with the donor’s requested remembrance on the Heritage Tree plaque on display at the Liberty Community Center. The plaque is limited to 50 characters, counting spaces and symbols. 

Memorial Decoration Policy: The tree serves as the memorial for the loved one. Because memorial trees are located in public use spaces, additional decorations in or around the tree are prohibited as they can create a hazard or additional liability to park users. All additional memorials will be immediately removed by LPR staff. Memorabilia will be available for pickup at the Liberty Community Center for two weeks. Items will be disposed of following the two week period.   

All trees purchased through this program are 100% tax deductible.