Mission and Objectivesof the Arboretum

campus

Mission

"The mission of the Arboretum at Gustavus Adolphus College is to facilitate environmental education and enhance the application of environmental ethics for all areas of study. The Arboretum provides the College and community a living sanctuary of plants for education, environmental stewardship, reflection and recreation."

Objectives
Education
Education is the most important objective of the Arboretum, serving the needs of the Gustavus Community. The Arboretum serves as a living museum of the Campus and Community and as such provides educational opportunities including:
    • Formal Education (college courses)
    • Research & Projects (student, faculty research)
    • Informal Education (campus education, community outreach, K-12)
Environmental Stewardship
The Arboretum promotes environmental stewardship and wise use of resources as an example of progressive environmental practices. This includes the cultivation of native plant communities (e.g. tall grass prairie) and harvesting of renewable resources (e.g. wind energy). Exhibits and further resources can be found in the Interpretive Center, in addition to workshops, events, and courses through the Arboretum. We also encourage you to get involved with stewardship efforts!
Reflection
The Arboretum provides a natural environment of beauty for retreat into the natural world that encourages contemplation, meditation and spiritual renewal. A Meditation Area is available in the Coniferous Woods for this very purpose, in addition to a Labyrinth near the Teaching Pond. 
Recreation
The Arboretum provides a natural environment to encourage personal wellness in an outdoor setting. With over 2.5 miles of trails through three ecosystems, the trails are available for walking, biking, or running, in addition to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter. Yoga, Tai-Chi, and dance classes have all been held in the open green space, and visitors are welcome to utilize this space, too!

 Education