Arboretum ReservationsStudents and Campus Groups

Interpretive Center Guidelines

Here are a few guidelines and rules about procedures that need to be done before and after your event takes place in the Interpretive Center. Please read carefully and follow the directions. 

Organization and cleaning: Keeping the Interpretive Center clean and orderly is imperative. Please do your best to keep the area clean.

• Put tables and chairs back into their original placement. Rearrange any furniture that was put out of place. Keep podium up at the front.
• If used, please retract the screen (up/down button on east wall). Turn off the sound system and put technology cords back in the wood box neatly.
• If used, please pull down wood kitchen divider upon departure.
• Clean the table tops and kitchen surfaces (rags and soap can be found in the kitchen).
• Sweep and/or pickup the floor. 
• Unless provided by the Arboretum, please take extra materials/food with you after the event is complete. Please remember to check the fridge for any food items you may have brought (including ketchup, mustard, etc.).
• Turn lights off when you leave the space (located in the hallway by the restrooms).

Technology: 

• Projector and sound system:
  • The up/down button for the screen is located on the east wall.
  • To turn on the projector, refer to the technology panel below the display case (far right of the fireplace).
  • Directions for your laptop are located on the wood ledge. 

Fireplace: If you are renting out the space, you are approved to use the fireplace. Please be aware that the person who starts the fire is responsible for the safety and wellbeing of guests and property for the duration of the fire. Please follow these guidelines:

• Be sure the damper is open by positioning the lever all the way to the right.
• Begin with a hot fire to draw smoke up (a small, cold fire can result in a smoke-filled room)!
• Prepare before lighting: Use lots of crumpled paper, some kindling on top of that, and split logs on top.
• Once fire is burning well, close glass doors to prevent smoke rollout.
• Do not leave fire unattended.
• Leave only after fire has died down to coals. Be sure the mesh screen is closed!
• Leave damper open even after the fire dies down.
• For assistance with the fireplace, call 933-8888 for Gustavus Campus Safety.
   

Decorations and modifications: If you are unsure whether your decorations are acceptable in the Interpretive Center, please contact us at 507-933-6181 or arboretum@gustavus.edu and always use discretion.

• No nails, staples, or spray paint. 
• All decorations must be taken down and taken away after the event.
   

Parking: Lots are color coded on the Gustavus Adolphus College campus. Please review the parking regulations for specific lots and permit types before parking your vehicle, or contact the Campus Safety office 24 hours a day at 507-933-8888 with any parking questions. VISITOR designated parking; permit required 2am-7am, 7 days a week; Closed to students and staff at all times.
 

Arboretum Guidelines

• Dogs and other pets are not allowed in the Arboretum in accordance with College rules. Please see our Dog Policy page for more information.
• Please stay on trails, lawn areas, or the paved road at all times. Off-trail use damages plants, animal homes, restorations, and research.
• Bike on the paved drives and dirt trails only. Bicycles are not allowed in the gardens.
• Ski and snowshoe only on designated trails.
• No hunting, trapping, or disturbing animals. No target practice.
• No campfires or open flames. Permission for campfires must be approved by the Arboretum Office.
• The use of drones is prohibited in accordance with College rules.
• The use of alcohol or drugs is prohibited on the grounds of the Arboretum in accordance with College rules.
• Collecting and removing plants and other natural materials is prohibited. Collection for research should be done with the prior permission of Arboretum Staff. 
•  Please be respectful and conscientious of others enjoying the Arboretum.