| Kevin Cotton Mayor Ashton Robinson Mahr Park Arboretum Media Contact Jennifer Daves, Public Relations Director (270)-824-2101 Date: October 18, 2023 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (Madisonville, KY) Mahr Park Arboretum is excited to announce it has been upgraded to a Level II Accreditation by The ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program and The Morton Arboretum for achieving particular standards of professional practices deemed important for arboreta and botanic gardens. The ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program is the only global initiative to officially recognize arboreta at various levels of development, capacity, and professionalism. In addition to the recent upgrade, Mahr Park Arboretum is recognized as an accredited arboretum in the Morton Register of Arboreta, a database of the world’s arboreta and gardens dedicated to woody plants. Mahr Park Arboretum is 265 acres, featuring rolling hills, mature trees, gardens, green spaces, and unique features. We recognize the importance of native trees and plants to our local environment, which long-term benefits our community and wildlife. Mahr Park Arboretum opened in 2016 and is a gifted legacy of Dr. Merle and Glema Mahr. Through generous donors through our Tree Donor Program and budgeting for reforestation annually, we have been able to plant over 200 trees within the past few years. Our tree trail features over 100 identified trees. These trees have unique plaques with QR codes that link to our website, the common and scientific name of the tree. “We are thankful that we have been upgraded to a level II Arboretum. It is vital for Mahr Park Arboretum that we honor the Mahr’s gifted land and cherish it in a special way according to what they valued. Maintaining a natural space for the community and local wildlife to enjoy is vital for long-term quality of life. Our goal is to create and maintain a living space for people to retreat to and be intentional with this beautiful land for enjoyment and green space for all.” – Ashton Robinson, Park Superintendent. “Mahr Park Arboretum is a true treasure to Madisonville. We are happy for the partnerships and team that have worked diligently to get the upgraded level II Arboretum accreditation. Having educational opportunities adds value to our many parks and Arboretum, that our community and visitors can enjoy.”- Mayor Kevin Cotton. |