Strategic Plan

Iris pond with yellow framing

Our Vision

A world-class arboretum connecting people and plants for the planet.

Our Mission

Rooted in plant science and community, we grow knowledge and inspire action to support thriving ecosystems and our vital relationship with nature.

 

The Arboretum’s fiscal year 2026-2030 (July 1, 2025-June 30, 2030) strategic plan is built on the foundation of our mission, vision and values. The strategic plan guides our work by defining goals and aligning resources to achieve them.

Organizational Goals

People around a table planning
Bee center solar panels
People with shovels at the groundbreaking ceremony
Green niftylift
New Applehouse
Myers Education Building
Side view of the visitor center
Inside window of the bee center
Trail at spring peeper meadow
Lake tamarack shoreline with cattails
Prairie at sunset with large tree
Iris pond
Pine Collection in winter
Apples on the production line
Man doing apple research
White trout lily
People in a birding class looking at a nesting box
Kids planting potatoes
People being directed in a garden bed
People at a discovery booth with paints
Two children doing a paint craft
Hmong women working in the garden
Two apprentice workers with kale
Crop walk at the Farm
Chef Beth teaching a class in the new kitchen
Apples hanging on a tree in the crop plots
Red Barn with people walking

Our Values

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Excellence

We generate and share exemplary knowledge, experiences and spaces.

Wonder and Curiosity

We cultivate exploration, inquiry, learning and the joy of discovery. 

Collaboration

We leverage co-creation and a diversity of skills, experiences and expertise to amplify our impact.

Inclusivity

We build community connections and welcoming environments that foster belonging. 

Sustainability

We steward environmental, financial and social resources to empower future generations.