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MARCH 1 2 0 0 9 - Bernheim Arboretum And Research Forest

MARCH 1 2 0 0 9 - Bernheim Arboretum And Research Forest

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A Dynamic Year at <strong>Bernheim</strong><br />

<strong>Bernheim</strong> <strong>Arboretum</strong> and <strong>Research</strong> <strong>Forest</strong> celebrated its 80th anniversary with a productive and creative<br />

year in spite of a difficult economic climate. Many highlights are provided in this first ever internet Annual<br />

Report on <strong>Bernheim</strong>. The flexibility of staff, volunteers, our Board of Trustees and donors allowed <strong>Bernheim</strong><br />

to counter state and national trends by adding programs and plants allowing us to “Connect People<br />

with Nature.”<br />

The cleanup from the wind storm and the ice storm took considerable effort, but was accomplished<br />

through a team effort by staff with the wonderful assistance from volunteers. Although some trees were<br />

lost, our Horticulture Department utilized the new open space to install unique trees and shrubs. These<br />

young plantings will provide future generations with beauty, inspiration and ecological benefits.<br />

The collision of art, science and nature around Lake Nevin at night during the first annual CONNECT<br />

at <strong>Bernheim</strong> event delighted over 5,000 guests. The artists, scientists, creative thinkers and nonprofit<br />

organizations provided enthralling and educational experiences. CONNECT is now an annual event for all<br />

who want to look at art, science and nature as a continuum in our interpretation of the world.<br />

Bobwhite quail now roam the prairies and forest edges of <strong>Bernheim</strong>. Our natural areas staff raised<br />

and released over 1,200 quail into restored habitat. These releases demonstrate <strong>Bernheim</strong>’s commitment<br />

to species diversity on our 14,592 acres.<br />

<strong>Bernheim</strong> remains fiscally strong, but continues to strive to satisfy the outcry for more environmental<br />

education programs for children, new volunteer opportunities for adults, expanded plant collections<br />

and new sustainable buildings and landscapes, while protecting our 23 square miles of natural habitat<br />

from invasive species – all this requires additional advocacy and support. Our community and donors<br />

have shown generous support over the last 80 years. The next 80 years will bring even more significant<br />

support opportunities as we Connect People with Nature.<br />

Enjoy your forest and see you on the trails!<br />

Mark K. Wourms Ph.D.<br />

Executive Director

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