Why Bur Oak?
Like the Kaws, bur oaks are native to this area. They are a long-lived species, some surviving for over three hundred years. They are hardy, fire-resistant, and sturdy. Though slow-growing, bur oaks can attain enormous stature. These ruggedly beautiful trees provide shade and aesthetic pleasure for humans, food and shelter for wildlife, and environmental benefits for the planet. Following the Euro-American invasion, oak trees in the Neosho Valley were harvested by the thousands because their hard wood was useful for a wide variety of commercial purposes. Just a few ancient oaks, including two historic Council Grove treesBthe Post Office Oak and the Council Oak, survived this initial onslaught. Now, like the Kaws, bur oak trees are regenerating in the Neosho Valley area. The resiliency and strength of bur oaks are qualities reflective of the tenacity and purpose of the Kaw Nation in reclaiming a portion of the tribe=s former homeland in Kansas. Funding: According to the Natural Resource
