AUGUSTA — Viles Arboretum recently received a $500 gift from Maine State Credit Union for demonstrating MSCU’s commitment to this community-based, educational presence that provides public access to all Mainers.

Mark P. DesMeules, Viles Arboretum executive director, said in a news release, “We have had a welcome and supportive relationship with Maine State Credit Union for many years, and many employees and members visit the Arboretum on a regular basis. We count the credit union as one of our most valuable and longstanding supporters and cannot thank them enough for always being there with a helping hand.”

The arboretum has made significant changes designed to enhance visitor appeal and provide fun and educational opportunities for all who visit the 224-acre preserve. With a newly installed Art Trail, interpretive signs, restored botanical collections and labels, the arboretum is poised to become a New England outdoor educational destination with a full roster of programs and events, according to the release.

Normand R. Dubreuil, MSCU president and CEO, said in the release, “We are so pleased to continue supporting this beautiful community resource that is preserving our natural environment for educational and recreational purposes.”

The staff, board of directors and supporters of the arboretum extend an invitation to see what’s happening in and around the fields, wetlands and forests, to use the preserve for class photos and landscape photography, and to take part in upcoming programs and events: community gardens, farmers markets, six miles of hiking trails, 20 botanical collections from around the world, a wetland boardwalk, the largest public sculpture presence in Maine and some of the best birdwatching in Maine, according to the release.

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