Moon tree propagates Stuart Roosa’s legacy
GRAND ISLAND, Neb. -- A moon tree has ended up at the Grand Island Arboretum.
Moon trees have been propagated from seeds that were brought on board the Apollo 14 Mission by astronaut Stuart Roosa. The moon tree planted Tuesday is a direct descendant of the original moon trees. Its roots have been over 240,000 thousand miles away and back.
Moon Tree Foundation President Rosemary Roosa is Stuart Roosa’s daughter. She said the tree is meant to honor those who have a love for trees.
“Each moon tree planting is magical in its own way, so it means a lot to me to carry on my father’s legacy to honor those from the past and the present,” Rosemary Roosa said.
The moon tree is dedicated to Gregg Bostelman, who served as the city park's superintendent for 24 years and was the driving force in creating the arboretum.
Much like Bostelman, Stuart Roosa had a passion for trees.
“My dad would be quite honored and humbled, I think, knowing that his legacy is continuing," Rosemary Roosa said. "I’m not sure he knew the significance of the moon tree and the impact they have on people. He loved the outdoors and trees. I think he’s here with us in spirit.”
The moon tree is an American Sycamore, the first of its kind in the arboretum.