Our Mission

The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum at James Madison University curates and cares for a living laboratory of forest, naturalized areas, and gardens to promote:  

• Healthy landscapes and watersheds; 
• Research and education; and 
• Outdoor connection for all ages. 

 Since 1989, the Arboretum has been open every day from dawn to dusk at no cost to visitors. 

Future Outlook

We are actively working toward the following plan:  

1. Model sustainable stewardship and maintenance practices that serve as educational opportunities. 
2. Cultivate outdoor connection and promote environmental understanding in the university and the broader community. 
3. Ensure robust facilities and improve visitor access.  
4. Generate increased financial support through community engagement, philanthropic partnerships, grants, and other means. 

Values

The Edith J. Carrier Arboretum at JMU will:

• Be a resource to education and research initiatives of James Madison University
• Be free and open to the public, dawn to dusk, 365 days/year
• Serve as a community resource which welcomes everyone
• Participate in the conservation of native plants and the preservation of greenspace
• Preserve, cultivate, and display a broad collection of plants and botanical specimens with an emphasis on native plants
• Be a place of beauty and respite, while promoting health, well-being, and meaningful experiences through nature
• Provide life-long learning through educational programming and volunteer opportunities
• Bring understanding to the value and complexity of natural ecosystems and designed environments
• Be forward-looking, flexible, and innovative.  

Arboretum Services

The Arboretum serves as:

• An outdoor classroom for learners of all ages, pre-school through high school students, homeschool students, JMU students, adults and volunteers
• A vibrant, evolving habitat for flora, fauna, and organisms, seen and unseen
• A native wildflower preserve and sanctuary for rescued plants
• A green corridor for migrating birds, butterflies, and mammals
• Grounds and an education center consisting of 110 acres and 3 miles of trails used by local communities and valley visitors for: 
  • An educational resource on a wide variety of topics involving the natural world
  • Walking, hiking, and running
  • Dog walking
  • Lectures and workshops
  • Hosting donor and memorable life events such as engagements, weddings, anniversary and birthday parties
  • Volunteer opportunities
• A storm detention area to hold high volume rain events back from campus
• A source for native trees, perennials, wildflowers, and ferns for home landscape purchase
• A getaway to engage in restoration recreation:
  • Wildlife watching
  • Relaxation and garden viewing
  • Reading
  • Photography
  • Forest bathing
  • Wellness classes
  • Contemplative labyrinth & trail walking
  • Picnicking
• A legacy landmark; a valuable resource for both JMU and the Shenandoah Valley