Buhl Park’s arboretum is rooted in the vision and stewardship of park founders Frank and Julia Buhl. In 1908, after acquiring the individual parcels of land that would ultimately become Buhl Park, the Buhls took the time to document the location of every existing tree throughout the property. They also documented the species and quantities of additional trees that were planted, creating an early record of the park’s living collection that continues to influence their approach to tree stewardship today.

The Buhl Park Arboretum is integrated throughout the park’s 270 acres of greenspace and woodlands and consists primarily of mature trees and woody plants, including native and regionally appropriate species. The Arboretum Committee, established in 2001, provides guidance on the maintenance, care, and continued expansion of the collection. Today, every new tree planted throughout the park is documented in their ArcGIS platform, allowing them to map and maintain the collection while also making the information publicly available for visitors to explore. Their goal is to continue building upon the legacy established by the Buhls while creating opportunities for the community to learn about and appreciate the trees and plants that make Buhl Park unique.