Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum
October 6, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (ET)
1800 N. Dixboro Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
About
Focus: Plant Collections & Management
Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum (MBGNA) is led by the mission to be a transformative force for social and ecological resilience through the waters and lands we steward.
This mission guides MBGNA’s stewardship of four distinct properties as part of the University of Michigan. These lands include thematic display gardens, a conservatory, restored natural areas, conserved ecosystems, and living collections to support research, teaching, and public engagement while fostering meaningful connections between people and nature.
We are excited to have you join us for a day of collections engagement at Matthaei Botanical Gardens. The day begins with a strategic framing of our organization and an introduction to our Peony and Bonsai collections. After lunch, enjoy a behind the scenes tour of the Melvyn C. Goldstein Bonsai Garden followed by an interactive workshop where we share our process for drafting MBGNA’s Living Collections Policy, and discuss together how to reconcile collections management nuances inherent in complex organizations.
Event Schedule:
9:00-10:00 AM: Attendee arrival, early access to conservatory/display garden (light refreshments will be provided)
10:00-10:20 AM: Opening Remarks on Strategic Planning & Next Steps with MBGNA Director, Tony Kolenic
10:20-10:45 AM: Plant Records History
11:00-11:35 AM: Peony Collection Overview
11:35 AM-12:00 PM: Bonsai Collection Overview
12:00-1:00 PM: Lunch (provided) with access to the conservatory/display garden
1:00 – 1:45 AM: Bonsai Collection tour
2:00 – 2:30 PM: MBGNA Collections Policy Overview & Process
2:30 – 3:30 PM: Collections Policy Workshop & Discussion
3:30 – 4:00 PM: Wrap-Up
4:30 – 6:00 PM: Post-Event Social (optional)
