Here are some of the Arboretum programs for the near future that may be of interest to the Sherwood Forest Community as reported by Dr. Pat DeCoursey, Arboretum Manager.



The Arboretum is currently carrying out an Operation Fence Clear Project. After a boundary survey by Chau Associates. we have obtained a highly detailed map of the position of the 2,600 foot long Arboretum fence relative to the Arboretum property line. The fence runs approximately 1 foot inside the property line (8 inches to 2 foot range). We are currently creating a no-plant barrier zone to stop the movement of non-native and/or invasive weeds in either direction across the fence line. A total of 14 homes border the Arboretum and the exportation of non-native plants from backyards into the Arboretum has become a problem. We will contact each of the 14 families before starting on any lot. At the moment, we have cleared approximately 1,500 feet, and everyone seems satisfied. Call or email P. DeCoursey if you have any questions.


The Arboretum will host a Saturday Service/Graduate Students in Biology program on Saturday, November 21, 2009 to help in the Arboretum fence clearing project, from 10:00am until 3:00 pm. Anyone who wishes to volunteer is welcome. In addition, any SF or Shandon community member is welcome to walk on the trail during these hours, with entry solely from the Bloomwood Gate. Please sign in when you arrive and out when you leave at the reception table.

Crew work day will be on Tuesday, November 24 from 8:00 am until 2:00 pm. Note that this is a change from the regular Wednesday Work Day due to the Thanksgiving Holiday. Again, members of Sherwood Forest and Shandon are welcome to walk the trail. Just sign in and out. Also let one of the crew know you at walking, so we won't lock anyone inside when the crew leaves.

The Arboretum will hold its December Open House on December 13, 2009 from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. Note that this is a change from the usual 3rd Sunday of each month, moved up a week earlier because of the many Christmas activities of most families in Christmas week. The program will feature the official opening of the Zen Peace Garden and the Zen Overlook Trail with a guided tour at 2 pm.

Watch for the Belser Arboretum Website, which we hope will be up and running in a few weeks.