The Arboretum at Murray State University is a fully accessible horticultural display, public garden and educational laboratory located on Pullen Farm, with an entrance at the end of Hickory Drive, off Main Street. Friends of MSU Arboretum Board Chair Paula Edwards visits Sounds Good to talk about its Watermelon Bust coming up July 17th and the Hutson Harvest Gala on September 4 - as well as what's new at the Arboretum this summer. Hear the conversation:
A treasure of the Hutson School of Agriculture, the Arboretum is still in its infancy, with plenty of room and opportunities to grow. It's approximately 12 acres comprised of five areas - open woodlands, savanna, open prairie, oak/hickory forest and wetlands. Plus, display and community gardens, professionally maintained with education the first and foremost priority.
A new feature of the wetlands is a pond and a hill, which will feature two waterfalls, a seeding area and natural wildlife. Some frogs have already claimed the pond, as well as fish - though how exactly those got there is a mystery. Canada geese have also been spotted.
There are 3/4 miles of walkways and pathways for visitors to walk their dogs or go for a jog. The arboretum is open from dawn to dusk.
Some events coming up:
The 3rd Annual Watermelon Bust, July 17 at 6:30. Food and drinks will be available, and activities for kids. There will be plenty of watermelons.
The September Harvest Gala - a ticketed event sponsored by Hutson, featuring food, live entertainment from Bob Valentine and Bob McGaughey, music from The Drunken Poets and a live auction. Tickets are $30 per person or $50 per couple.
To become a Friend of the Arboretum, one can apply for membership either at the Arboretum or through the Foundation Office. Or you can call Abby Hensley, Director of Development for HutsonSchool of Agriculture at 270-809-3131.
