Growing Something That Will Last
A garden is never truly finished.
Each season brings new opportunities to plant, nurture, improve, and dream about what comes next. At the Longview Arboretum and Nature Center, that same philosophy guides everything we do. While visitors notice the beautiful flowers, sculptures, and walking trails, there is an incredible amount of work behind the scenes to ensure the Arboretum continues to grow and serve our community.
This summer has been filled with exciting milestones. We celebrated the completion of our Christus Trial Gardens and welcomed dozens of young explorers during our Summer Science Camps. We also officially recognized Woodland Harp, generously donated by artist Stacy Deslatte, as the newest addition to our growing collection of public art. Public art enriches the visitor experience by encouraging guests to slow down, appreciate their surroundings, and discover the beautiful relationship between art and nature. We are grateful to everyone whose generosity continues to make the Arboretum an even more beautiful destination for East Texas.
As exciting as these accomplishments are, there is something many people don’t realize. The Longview Arboretum operates with a very small staff. Our gardens, educational programs, special events, visitor experience, and countless projects simply would not be possible without the dedication of our volunteers.
Our volunteers are truly the heart of the Arboretum.
Every week, they greet visitors, answer phones in the Nature Center, assist guests in The Gifting Tree, prepare for special events, maintain our gardens, propagate plants in the greenhouse, and tackle countless other projects. Their time and talents allow us to accomplish far more than our staff could ever do alone.
The wonderful thing about volunteering is that there is a place for everyone.
If you enjoy meeting people, we would love to have you welcome visitors at the front desk or assist in our gift shop. Our events always need helping hands, and if you would like to work outdoors but have thought, “I don’t know enough about gardening,” we especially want to hear from you.
This September, we are launching Dig In! Garden Volunteer Academy, a new program created especially for people who want to learn while they volunteer. Participants will meet at 8:00 a.m. on the third Wednesday of each month for a hands-on morning in the gardens. Our garden staff will choose a timely topic based on the season and the garden’s current needs, such as planting, pruning, propagation, soil preparation, or seasonal garden care. Participants will learn a practical skill and then put it to work alongside our staff and experienced volunteers. No gardening experience is necessary, and participants do not have to attend every session. Just bring a willingness to learn, get your hands a little dirty, and grow with us.
There is also plenty to look forward to, along with more opportunities to get involved. August 21 through 23, we will welcome players and spectators for our Pickle in the Pines Pickleball Tournament. Then in October, the gardens will come alive with music during our Fall Concert Series, offering another opportunity for families and friends to gather and enjoy the Arboretum.
Whether you visit for a peaceful walk, attend an event, volunteer your time, or simply spend an afternoon surrounded by nature, you become part of the Arboretum’s story.
If you have ever considered volunteering, we would love to welcome you. Whether you can give a few hours each month or several days each week, there is a place for you here. To learn more about volunteer opportunities or the Dig In! Garden Volunteer Academy, visit www.longviewarboretum.org or contact the Nature Center at 903-212-2181. Together, we are cultivating far more than beautiful gardens. We are building friendships, strengthening our community, and creating a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
Come grow with us.
