Volunteer in the Arboretum
The "Nasturtiums" garden volunteer corps
The Nasturtiums is the name given to our team of dedicated Arboretum Garden Volunteers. They help us by planting, weeding, trimming, removing invasive species, and much more. Our gardens wouldn't look as beautiful as they do without their time and energy. Arb Garden Volunteers enjoy socials and "group work" occasionally, but each volunteer can set their own unique schedule, working as often as they like.ÌýIf you are interested in volunteering in the Arboretum and joining the Nasturtiums, pleaseÌýcontact us at arboretum [at] gustavus.edu (arboretum[at]gustavus[dot]edu).
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Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ student organization volunteers
If your student group is interested in volunteering at the Arboretum, please contact arboretum [at] gustavus.edu (arboretum[at]gustavus[dot]edu) to inquire about events we could use your help with throughout the school year! Past student volunteer events have included: invasive species pulls, mulching, tulip planting, help with garden beds, providing support at our events.

Tribute gifts
The Arboretum at Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ has opportunities to honor the ones you love. Whether you prefer the strength and beauty of a tree or the quiet reflection offered by a bench, your tribute will be well cared for in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Tree adoption allows a donor to memorialize an existing tree in the Arboretum for a specified time frame.
- Donors can choose from a variety of species of trees in several locations and are guaranteed sole rights to that tree for twenty years.
- Replacement, substitution, and relocation of trees will be done only when necessary, as determined by Arboretum staff in consultation with the donor.
- Donors will receive first right of renewal when the tree comes up for re-adoption.
20-year Adoption | $3,000
Those who choose to honor or memorialize loved ones with a dedicated bench or chair, sponsor it for its lifespan and may be able to choose its location. Since chairs and benches are subject to outside elements, the College will determine when replacement is necessary. Donors are not responsible for paying replacement costs within the projected lifespan. After that timeframe, donors will be contacted regarding the renewal of their memorial.
- Adirondack Chair | $1,800
(projected lifespan: 5 years) - Wood Park Bench (flat) | $2,500
(projected lifespan: 10 years) - Wood Park Bench (with back) | $3,500
(projected lifespan: 10 years) - Teak Bench | $3,000
(projected lifespan: 10 years) - Kasota Stone Seating Block | $5,000
(projected lifespan: 30+ years) - Specialty Bench | $6,000+
(available upon request)
If you are ready to make a gift or have questions about tribute gifts, please contact the Arboretum staff at 507-933-6182 or email arboretum [at] gustavus.edu (arboretum[at]gustavus[dot]edu)

Financial Support
Friends of the Arboretum
Friends of the Arboretum at Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ supports the education, conservation, and horticultural activities of the Arboretum. All annual Supporter Levels of $60, $120, $600 and $1,200 include your $60 Membership and all its benefits.