Our Work
Volunteer community, maintenance programs, and enhancement projects
The Foundation preserves and enhances the Washington Park Arboretum through a variety of dynamic programs and projects. We recruit and manage a vibrant volunteer community that supports every facet of Arboretum operations—from grounds maintenance to fundraising events. We help fund the salaries of UW Botanic Gardens arborists, gardeners, and environmental educators working in the Arboretum. We fund revitalization projects, such as the restoration of historic Rhododendron Glen, and the creation of new horticultural displays, such as the Pacific Connections Garden. We are also the support organization for the Seattle Japanese Garden in the Arboretum.
Become a volunteer and enjoy everything the Arboretum community offers. Meet great people and like-minded spirits.
Caring for the Arboretum’s plant collection, and ensuring the health and safety of the trees, is a major expense and our biggest pride and joy.
We are funding the restoration of Rhododendron Glen, Lake Washington Boulevard, and other beloved spaces in the Arboretum.
We’re helping children and adults learn about the vital role plants, forests, and wetlands play in the urban environment.
We are the support partner for the Japanese Garden at the Arboretum, managing public programs and volunteers, and raising vital funds.
We fund and support Master Plan improvement projects, including the Pacific Connections Garden and the Arboretum Loop Trail.
News Articles
Construction Phase of Rhody Glen Stream Restoration Nears Completion
ABOVE: Workers installing new stepping stones across the stream in early September. (Photo courtesy UW Botanic Gardens) The major construction component of the Rhododendron Glen stream restoration project is almost complete. The contractors, Forma and Terra Dynamics,...
Leaf Skeletons and Shadows
PHOTO: Student on an Arboretum school field trip, with a skeletonized magnolia leaf (courtesy UW Botanic Gardens). The season of the dead is upon us, and in the latest issue of the Arboretum Bulletin, the Miller Library's Rebecca Alexander answers a ghoulish...
Arboretum Celebrates Return of the Tsutakawa Memorial Gates
The newly restored Tsutakawa Memorial Gates at the north end of Azalea Way.Our public celebration for the restoration of the Tsutakawa Memorial Gates on September 14 was a truly special occasion! A large crowd of visitors attended the late-afternoon event and enjoyed...