The mission of the Vassar Arboretum is to serve as a living laboratory for learning and research in many fields, to provide varied, well-designed spaces for relaxation and rejuvenation, and to nurture a diversity of life forms.

The Arboretum promotes engagement with the trees and landscape of the college and maintains the health and diversity of the collection of trees and woody plants. It is a resource for Vassar faculty, staff, students, visitors, and the broader community.

Definition and Scope

The Vassar Arboretum is a diverse collection of trees and woody plants and a living museum of biological diversity that contributes to the educational and residential life of the college.

The Arboretum stretches across the entire campus, encompassing a number of distinct areas, each with its own character and purpose. It includes the trees and woody plants in three areas, which differ in function, management, and aesthetic goals: 1) the central campus, including a collection of trees labeled for educational and informational purposes; 2) natural areas, especially the riparian corridors surrounding the Fonteynkill and Casperkill creeks; and 3) the Preserve, which includes essential habitats for other species and provides numerous ecosystem services.

While a core set of trees are tagged and are part of the ArbNet-accredited arboretum, all trees and woody plants on Vassar’s property are part of the Vassar Arboretum. Moreover, management of the arboretum is closely connected to the management of the overall landscape.

Goals

• Steward, document, and interpret the collection of trees and woody plants, ensuring health and resilience in the face of climate change
• Maintain a diversity of ecological areas and designed landscapes for research, education, and enjoyment
• Promote learning and research focused on trees and woody plants, as well as on the local ecosystems within which they live
• Promote the use of campus landscape for enhancing physical and mental health and wellness
• Study and interpret the cultural and historic significance of the campus landscape, and foster a sense of place within the Hudson Valley
• Provide inclusive natural spaces that foster connections among people with diverse perspectives and cultural backgrounds, and between human and non-human species