The Viles Arboretum recently announced the first of several user-friendly kiosks have been installed at the arboretum. This significant outcome has been in the works for several months. The arboretum has several unmarked access points leading into its 224-acre preserve and network of trails, botanical collections, and other exhibits. As a result, many users of the arboretum often do not know the basic permitted uses and protocol which help to maintain the natural history, collections quality and overall quality of the experience for the arboretum’s more than 20,000 visitors annually. Many visitors also do not realize the arboretum is a private nonprofit organization which relies on individual memberships in order to make the property available to all, according to the release.

The kiosks are designed to be engaging with a friendly approach to alerting all visitors to the do’s and don’ts of the area. Educational information, calendar of events, location information, current natural history observations, and safety tips are just a few of the helpful postings one will find.

The kiosk initiative is just one of many changes visitors can see taking place at the arboretum. People are invited to the arboretum any time and to consider membership and support this resource.

The arboretum is located in Augusta, on acres of fields, forests and wetlands, with botanical collections from around the world. It offers an ever-changing selection of inspirational exhibits, educational and practical programs for the public and for schools. The arboretum focuses on interactive, creative and hands-on teaching with a focus on botany and natural history.

The arboretum strives to make its 224 acres of fields, forests and wetlands, play a key role in contributing to the quality of life for Maine citizens and visitors from every corner of the world. Its presence contributes significantly to the quality of life in and around Augusta and beyond, and its newly installed Art Trail presents the largest accessible display of outdoor art sculpture in Maine.

For more information, visit www.vilesarboretum.org or call 626-7989.


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