Furman University
IN-1: Innovation 1

Furman University has received accreditation as a Level I arboretum through The Morton Register of Arboreta. Furman earned the recognition for exemplifying tree conservation, species diversity, and educational resources and events focused on landscapes and trees. The George G. Willis Jr. Arboretum, whose grounds and tree tags are accessible to the public on the Furman campus, strives to be a model for other arboreta in the Southeast and across the nation. The predominance of native species makes the arboretum representative of arboriculture in Upstate South Carolina, and provides learning and research opportunities related to the region. A Furman Trees Committee comprised of students, faculty, grounds staff, and community partners, developed an extensive arboretum management plan to monitor and maintain tree health and safety, and increase species diversity with a focus on local species. The arboretum is named for George G. Willis Jr., a 1948 graduate whose passion for the Furman landscape persists to fund future arboretum developments.

The George G. Willis Jr. Arboretum affords opportunities for engagement in both the natural and social sciences. Students and faculty are collaborating to research and promote the environmental and human services provided by trees. Plans are under way for installing interpretive signage for distinct educational landscapes, for organizing guided “tree walks” for the public, and for enhancing online resources.