Big Creek Arboretum

Environmental conditions in western Kansas place tremendous stress on the trees growing here. A comprehensive inventory of existing site conditions was conducted to prepare the campus for future losses to windbreaks and interior campus spaces. New tree varieties, tolerant of the xeric site conditions, will compliment tried&true native species to endure for future generations. 

"The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit." Nelson Henderson 

As part of the overall Campus Masterplan, a future Arboretum was proposed. The gardens are laid out in seasonal arrangements around the outside of a continuous walking path. The interior portion of the garden would showcase a variety of grasses and forbs. The main entrance would lie just opposite of the existing trial garden area. The project is ongoing.