Mission

The mission of ArbNet is to foster the establishment and professionalism of arboreta; identify arboreta capable of participating or collaborating in certain scientific, collections, or conservation activity; and advance the planting and conservation of trees.

To fulfill its mission, ArbNet provides:

• Resources to help arboreta improve their operations, research, conservation, and education 
• Opportunities to connect with other arboreta to collaborate in scientific, collections, and conservation activities
• A network to help advance the planting, care, and conservation of trees

History

In April 2011, The Morton Arboretum launched ArbNet and arbnet.org to support the common purposes and interests of tree-focused botanic gardens. 

Its first major initiative was the ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program, which establishes specific standards of professional practice. 

At the same time, it created the Morton Register of Arboreta, a database of arboreta and other botanic gardens with a substantial focus on woody plants. Although the Morton Register includes institutions that have not applied for accreditation, all ArbNet accredited arboreta are included on the register.

Through collaboration with its partners, ArbNet has made significant achievements, including:  

• Gaining community-wide buy-in and guidance on defining and advancing the ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program standards
  
• Accrediting more than 800 arboreta in 40 countries
  
• Creating a community of more than 3500 tree champions and professionals
  
• Securing nearly $1,000,000 in external funding for specific projects and initiatives
  
• Partnering with Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) to align conservation standards and priorities with international policy frameworks
  
• Providing over $135,000 in funding to 104 arboreta through the BGCI/ArbNet Partnership Programme, Capacity Building Grants, and Priority U.S. Tree Species Conservation Awards 
  
• Hosting the ArbNet 10th Anniversary Conference in 2021
  
• Supporting The American Chestnut Foundation in its work to save the nearly extinct tree by establishing a disease-resistant hybrid in its native Appalachian region
  
• Piloting new opportunities for arboreta to engage in tree science, urban and community forestry projects, and arboretum mentorship