Parsons Arboretum Foundation Endowment

Goal: $2,052.00

Specific Need

Donations will allow continued additions and improvements to the Arboretum. We are currently planning to complete more universally accessible trails for use by all citizens for their enjoyment, as well as improvement of their physical & emotional health. 

Donations also provide the ability to maintain the facilities and continue educational programs.  One such program is the Arbor Day Celebration.  This event is attended by grade school students from Parsons and the surrounding school districts each year.  

Mission

The mission of the Parsons Arboretum Foundation is to promote, protect and enhance the Parsons Arboretum for current and future generations by strengthening and building a diverse and engaged community of donors, volunteers and advocates.

To use our resources to the improvement, maintenance and betterment of the arboretum grounds and facilities, in order to provide resources for research and educational opportunities and promote healthy lifestyles. To offer the opportunity for the public to view and evaluate a wide variety of trees, shrubs and landscapes native to this area.

Profile

The Parsons Arboretum was created in 1991 when the Union Pacific Railroad deeded nearly 19 acres of land to the city of Parsons. The Parsons Arboretum Foundation was established in 1993 to continue efforts to develop this beautiful facility. Today the Arboretum encompasses 25 acres and displays an astounding 825 trees along with numerous flower specimens. It is the only Arboretum in Southeast Kansas and one of only a handful across the state.

The Earl V. Seifert Visitors Center was officially dedicated in May of 2000. The Visitors Center features a meeting room with kitchenette, and the Bill Brewer Education Room. Many organizations meet at the Visitors Center, as well as members of the community. The Bill Brewer Education Room features wonderful exhibits to educate young and old alike about many aspects of nature.

The Parsons Arboretum is maintained by volunteers and city staff. The facility features the Harlow Family Garden, the Janssen Family Memorial Water Garden, the Freshman Memorial Arbor, the Wyckoff flower bed, Seifert flower bed, and the Ervin & Martin flower beds. Another great feature is the Billman parking lot.  Recent additions are the Rotary Club Memorial shelter completed in 2016 and extension of walking trail in 2017. A variety of trails are available throughout the Arboretum for the public to enjoy. Gazebos, arbors, wetlands, memorial trees and other features contribute to the beauty offered at the Arboretum.