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At the Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Photo by Gary Every.
For those that have studied the history of Superior, you will know that the discovery and investment made by Col. Boyce Thompson not only helped to develop the mining industry in Superior but his desire to conduct research on plants and eco-systems helped to put Superior on the map with his development of the Boyce Thompson Arboretum.
At the Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Photo by Gary Every.
The Boyce Thompson Arboretum is the very first botanical garden in Arizona, it is also the oldest registered non-profit founded in the Grand Canyon State. Since 1926 the gardens have been expanded to cover more than 300 acres, traversed by more than two miles of paths and trails which explore the collections. The Boyce Thompson Arboretum is governed by a three party agreement between the University of Arizona for research development, Arizona State Parks and the original Boyce Thompson Southwest Arboretum non-profit board of directors. While many consider the Arboretum as a place for recreation the Arboretum through their partnership with the University of Arizona still conducts many important research projects.
A Monarch Butterfly at the Arboretum
Most recently the park has acquired the Wallace Garden Collection which will expand the park, possibly making it a two day destination attraction. The expansion is expected to be completed in about two years.
The park is open daily (except Christmas), hours during Summer months are 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. (with no entry after 2, so those final guests have one full hour to enjoy the gardens); and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. October through April.
At the Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Photo by Gary Every.
The Arboretum also plays an instrumental role in helping to promote Superior. The Arboretum often shares community events that are scheduled with their members and volunteers and organizations such as the Superior Optimist Club and Superior Chamber of Commerce often coordinate fundraisers and events with the Arboretum. Staff at the Arboretum helped to organize the very first Prickly Pear festival which has been a huge success for Superior.
This renowned State Park is located just three miles west of Superior, and there is something for everyone to enjoy from guided nature walks, art classes and other educational events, membership has many benefits! You can learn more about their upcoming events online at: cals.arizona.edu/bta or connect with 10,000 fans, members, staff and volunteers at facebook.com/btarboretum In addition to many great events and daily access the Arboretum is also a great place to purchase plants for landscaping or your home, the gift shop also features many unique gifts and books.
Superior residents are extended a discounted “good neighbor” membership – $42.50 for a year, which includes two adults and children under 18; this discounted rate is half the price of a standard family membership paid by those who live outside Superior. Each year they sell over 5,000 memberships.
Eleven of the their 28 staff members are residents of Superior and they anticipate that their staff will increase over the next few years as the park plans to complete the installation of the Wallace Gardens.
Mila Besich is a resident of Superior with two children. She volunteers for many local organizations. She is an experienced fundraiser and event planner for Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition. She covers some of the area town councils and schools.
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