Submitted by Highlands Center for Natural History
Achieving ArbNet Level I Arboretum Accreditation is a meaningful milestone for the Highlands Center for Natural History. It affirms the center’s commitment to stewarding and celebrating the biodiversity of this unique ecoregion.
It also deepens the center’s mission: To help children and adults discover the wonders of nature and become wise caretakers of the land.
This recognition strengthens the center’s ability to engage the public in understanding the ecological importance of native trees and plants while fostering a culture of awareness throughout the community.
ArbNet is an interactive, collaborative, international community of arboreta. The accreditation program is the only global initiative to officially recognize arboreta based on a set of professional standards.
The Highlands Center for Natural History is an 80-acre campus situated within Prescott National Forest under a special use permit. At the heart of the site lies the James Family Discovery Gardens, a thoughtfully designed, 5-acre arboretum that highlights the rich botanical diversity of the Central Highlands of Arizona. These gardens serve as a living showcase of the region’s major plant communities — from the dense chaparral slopes of scrub oak and manzanita to the cooling shade of riparian willows, the iconic Ponderosa pine woodlands, and the transitional zones of pinyon pine, alligator juniper and grassland species such as prickly pear and banana yucca.
This immersive landscape invites visitors of all ages and backgrounds to engage with the wonders of native flora. Fully ADA accessible, the James Family Discovery Gardens are lined with interpretive signage and thoughtfully curated pathways that encourage exploration, discovery, reflection, wonder and connection to the natural world.
Formed in 1996, the Highlands Center for Natural History is a nonprofit organization and a regional hub for lifelong learning, designed to invite discovery of the wonders of nature through on and offsite programs and includes an inviting venue for community events. It is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations, foundations
and community partners. Visit www.highlandscenter.org for more.
