Revitalizing the Hadwen Arboretum, Columbus Park Neighborhood

In collaboration with the Worcester Tree Initiative, Tower Hill Botanical Garden, and Columbus Park Neighborhood Residents Association, this project will embark on a revitalization of the Hadwen Aboretum in Worcester, Massachusetts. Historically, the site was home to over 100 different tree varieties, including 15 different varieties of Magnolia trees. Despite the significance of the Arboretum to tree experts and local residents, the site lacks tree tags and proper signage, and contains numerous invasive species and a large cohort of mature overstory trees, some of which are dying or dead. After years of neglect, a new forest management plan calls for tree tagging, brush removal, new tree plantings, new trail development, and improved signage and access for visitors. The project will connect student classroom training with on-the-ground experience in forest management practices by engaging students in revitalization activities. Results of the project will be shared via online maps, a public website, and community events, and will inform long-term goals for the Arboretum.