The ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program provides standards and guidelines for the establishment and development of an arboretum. The goals of the accreditation program are to:
- foster the establishment and professionalism of arboreta;
- identify arboreta capable of participating or collaborating in certain scientific, collections, or conservation activities; and
- advance the planting, study, and conservation of trees to improve the world.
Arboreta that are accredited are encouraged to become leaders and serve as models to promote professional development and engagement with other arboreta.
Different levels of accreditation have been established to recognize arboreta at varying degrees of development, capacity, and professionalism. Accredited arboreta are encouraged to continue their growth and development to achieve higher professional standards and can apply to upgrade to a higher level when they are ready at any point after their initial accreditation. Accreditation must be renewed every five years and arboreta will receive a renewal reminder several months prior to the arboretum contact listed on this form.
Arboreta and public gardens are eligible to apply for accreditation by submitting this application along with supporting documentation to demonstrate their level of achievement according to the specified standards. Once the application is completed, a decision will usually be made within four weeks.
The ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program is sponsored and supported by The Morton Arboretum, Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI), and the American Public Gardens Association (APGA).
For resources and information related to creating, running, and growing an arboretum, please see the ArbNet Resources pages, which include resources on Starting an Arboretum and Accreditation, among many other topics. Additionally, here are links to sample applications that will
allow you to see the full application in its entirety, along with sample
responses:
If you have any concerns about being able to reach particular criteria, please reach out to us. For more information regarding specific accreditation requirements: