The Arboretum's Mission

Teaching

To provide an outdoor laboratory for use by faculty and students in botany, zoology, biology, environmental studies and other departments. In both teaching and research, the Arboretum is a unique and valuable academic resource and support facility.

Research

To support and conduct research in a broad range of subjects including ecology, field biology, conservation and natural history. Arboretum research has emphasized, and continues to emphasize, useful long-term studies.

Conservation

To provide stewardship of the College lands by protecting, sustaining, and enhancing biological diversity by means of large tracts of open space. The Arboretum provides leadership in conservation matters statewide and beyond.

Collections

To maintain, develop, and interpret well-documented plant collections for teaching, research, and public education and enjoyment.

Recreation

To provide a place where people from the College and the community may enjoy passive recreation and where they may come to learn, reflect, and renew themselves through contact with the natural world. The Arboretum enhances the quality of life for the members of the College community and the citizens of Southeastern Connecticut.

Public Education

To provide programs and publications about conservation, horticulture, gardening, botany and natural history that enhance people’s understanding of the natural world and foster an understanding of the Arboretum’s mission.