On Mother’s Day 2023, the Arboretum Foundation and UW Botanic Gardens launched a broad, state-funded survey to learn about the needs and preferences of our community regarding the future of the Washington Park Arboretum. We’re hoping to get feedback both from current park users and those we wish to better serve in the future.
A focal point of the survey is the North End parcel, the 28-acre peninsula on the shores of Lake Washington that will return to the Arboretum at the completion of the SR 520 bridge project. Community input will help shape the design and use of this land.
At this early stage, we are collecting very broad input and ideas, but priorities include recognizing the Coast Salish peoples as the original inhabitants of the land, expanding shoreline access, and restoring Arboretum Creek.
Survey team interviewing visitors at the Arboretum. (Photo by Seva Workshop/BRV)
“We want to ensure that all community voices are clearly heard in this process,” says Arboretum Foundation Executive Director Jane Stonecipher. “One of our key goals is to identify and remove barriers preventing people from participating in the many wonderful resources that the Arboretum has to offer.”
University of Washington Botanic Gardens Director Christina Owen says, “This is a truly unique opportunity to influence the future of the Arboretum and the programs we provide there. We want to hear from all voices in our community.”
The study is being funded by the Washington State legislature, and the results will be made public. Data collection is expected to be completed by September 2023, and the final report will be published in November.
Look out for our survey team the next time you visit the Arboretum, or click below to take the survey online. It takes fewer than 10 minutes.
ENTER OUR DRAW: Take the survey and enter to win a $100 gift card to the Arboretum Shop.
Questions? Reach out to us at survey@arboretumfoundation.org.
The survey team at work in the Arboretum. (Photo courtesy Seva Workshop/BRV)
