(Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art)Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art recently became the only museum in Arkansas that also functions as an arboretum.
The museum last month received Level I accreditation by the ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program. The status indicates the presence of at least 25 species of woody plants, a dedicated grounds staff, a governing body, and a planned approach to arboretum management.
Crystal Bridges sits on 120 acres of Ozark forest, and features many tree species, including dogwoods, redbuds, magnolias, oaks, hickories, beech trees, ashes, walnuts and the Arkansas State Champion White Pine. Its arboretum includes 5 miles of trails, 33 outdoor sculptures, and several display gardens.
The land is free and open to the public every day between sunrise and sunset.
Samantha Best, the museum’s landscape and outdoor experience manager, said the accreditation highlights the museum’s commitment to environmental stewardship and its status as a destination for nature enthusiasts.
“We are so proud of our Trails and Grounds team – and our entire team here at Crystal Bridges – who have all played such a huge role in achieving this honor,” Best said.
Crystal Bridges officials celebrated the achievement during an Arbor Day event on April 27.
