An Idea Takes Root - 43 Years Ago

Posted by Jon Winston

Andy Hartmann introduced today's guest speaker Mr. Dan Harder, Director of the UCSC Arboretum. A little known gem hidden just off Empire Grade north of Bay Ave, the 43 year old "arb" is an internationally recognized leader in global conservation research projects and home to thousands of native and imported species.

The arb holds the largest collection of Australian and New Zealand plants outside of those countries themselves.

Although Santa Cruz is the second smallest county in the state, it is the most botanically diverse. According to Harder, "you can grow almost anything in Santa Cruz," making it an ideal location for the arb. But it's not just a research facility. It's open to the public daily from 9-5. It runs a gift shop and often hosts unique plant sales as well as various happenings ranging from concerts to children's events.

Using over 200 students and non-student volunteers, the arb has a $1M budget which is primarily funded by visitors and donors.

Here's a brief timeline of the Arboretum's History. For a more colorful version, try this pictorial history.