Arboretum, Horticultural Research Center Mark 50/100 Years in 2008

Chaska, MN (April 8, 2008) - The year 2008 is a momentous one for the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, the 1,047-acre University of Minnesota public garden and horticultural research showcase in suburban Chanhassen.

The Arboretum is celebrating its 50^th anniversary, and the University of Minnesota’s Horticultural Research Center (now part of the Arboretum) is marking its centenary year.  Its research has resulted in the introduction of several notable cold-hardy grape varieties and fruit trees, now planted around the world.

Also in this milestone year, longtime Arboretum director Peter J. Olin will be stepping aside in July 2008, after nearly 25 years of visionary leadership.  As part of a “phased retirement,” Olin will continue to work on select Arboretum projects and teach as part of the faculty of the University’s Department of Horticultural Science. 

While we will be celebrating all year, we have planned the following showcase events to mark these significant achievements and transitions.

·         “Treeology,” our 2008 Summer Exhibition - Opening May 24 and continuing through Oct. 12, “Treeology” is a family-friendly, interactive exhibition that celebrates the beauty and wonder of trees. The exhibition comprises: an Art ’n Trees Trail art walk featuring 17 juried works of interactive public art inspired by trees; a “Grown Home” open-air rustic abode created from living birch branches; a “Tree-mendous Trees” walk encompassing favorite Arboretum trees, and much much more!  “Treeology” sponsors include Bailey Nurseries, The Toro Company, Xcel Energy and Lake Minnetonka Garden Club. Promotional partners are KARE-11 TV, CBS Radio, Mpls/St. Paul Magazine, Comcast.

·         50/100^th Anniversary ‘Toast & Taste in the Garden,’ Friday, June 13, 6-9 p.m..  Gala event for Arboretum friends and supporters featuring samplings of local varieties of wines, paired with cheeses and other hors d’oeuvres. Live music.  Tickets: $45. Proceeds benefit the Arboretum. Call 952-443-1400, ext. 7046, or email: celebarb@umn.edu.

·         50/100^th Anniversary Gala: ‘In the Garden,’ Wednesday, June 18, 6-10 p.m..  A garden dinner dance celebrating the Arboretum.  Includes reception, program and live auction.  Tickets: $250 each. Reservations required. Proceeds benefit the Arboretum.  952-443-1400, ext. 7046 or celebarb@umn.edu. 

·         50/100^th Anniversary Family Day: ‘In the Garden,’ Sunday, June 22.  A gala all-day “birthday party” for the Arboretum, featuring family activities and, of course, birthday cake! Free gate admission.  11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Presented by Target. 

The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, the largest public garden in the Upper Midwest and a premier northern arboretum, is part of the College of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences at the University of Minnesota and developed as a community and national resource for horticultural and environmental information, research, and public education.  It is located nine miles west of I-494 on Highway 5 in Chanhassen.