Agency Histories
State Arboretum
Abstract
Biography/History Notes
In 1961, the Utah legislature passed an act which allowed the University of Utah and Utah State University of Agriculture to establish a State Arboreta. The mission of the arboreta reads as follows: "In recognition of the cultural role that trees and shrubbery and birds and bees have played in the settlement and development of this state and the hardships that many of the pioneers endured to bring to this land seeds, plants, trees, and shrubs which have contributed so much to the scenic beauty of this state, it is deemed expedient that State Arboreta be established for the purpose of further developing a knowledge and appreciation of trees and shrubs and provide a place where they may be planted and cultivated as memorials and for the cultural enjoyment of the people of the state." (Laws of Utah, Ch. 121, Sec. 1)
The universities were empowered to cultivate a greater knowledge and public appreciation for trees and plants in Utah, as well as those growing in remote sections of the country and world. They were authorized to receive gifts, contributions, and donations of all kinds, including gifts and contributions of trees, plants, and shrubbery of every variety to promote the purposes and pursuits of the Arboreta.
The University of Utah's arboretum is under the jurisdiction of the University of Utah.