In 2025, Awbury Arboretum strengthened its role as one of Northwest Philadelphia’s most vital public green spaces. Across 56 acres, the arboretum welcomed thousands of visitors seeking nature, learning, and respite — without gates, tickets, or barriers.

Throughout the year, Awbury expanded its role as a public resource through accessible environmental education, hands-on stewardship, and community programming. Signature events, such as the Harvest Festival and foraging workshops, drew new and returning visitors into the landscape. At the same time, youth programs, including Awbury Adventure Camp, served over 500 campers, providing children with meaningful outdoor experiences who might otherwise have limited access to nature. A revitalized volunteer program tackled long-overdue care and beautification needs, building new relationships with neighbors and strengthening a shared sense of responsibility for the land.

It also made clear that Awbury’s next chapter must center on the land itself. In the year ahead, Awbury will focus on stewarding its living collection and inviting the public to participate in that work.

In 2026, guided by its Strategic Plan, Awbury will invest in new plantings across key areas of the property, grow its horticulture volunteer team, and introduce clear, engaging tree labels that help visitors understand what they are seeing and why it matters. With funding now in place, Awbury will also redesign the garden areas surrounding the historic Cope House, improving both ecological function and the visitor experience.

A major milestone will be the launch of Awbury’s first comprehensive tree inventory, developed in partnership with Morris Arboretum & Gardens. Documenting an estimated 2,000 trees, the inventory gives Awbury access to critical data about canopy health, species diversity, and long-term resilience. This information will shape planting decisions and land management for decades to come.

With the support of its board, volunteers, and neighbors, Awbury enters 2026 prepared to steward its land and ensure this green space remains open, vibrant, and welcoming for generations to come. We look ahead to a year of strengthened connections and collaboration, and to inviting new visitors to discover Awbury’s distinctive landscape. From the Farm to AdventureWoods, we are excited to carry forward the essential work that sustains and animates Awbury.