Dawes Arboretum Inducted into Forest of Honor

The Newark-based arboretum received the prestigious state recognition for its significant contributions to forestry.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Awards

Dawes Arboretum Inducted into Forest of Honor

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry has officially inducted The Dawes Arboretum into its Forest of Honor. The recognition celebrates the Newark institution's ongoing partnership focused on wild-known origin tree species.

Why it matters

This induction highlights the importance of institutional collaboration in advancing forestry science across the state. It recognizes organizations that play a vital role in supporting the mission of the Division of Forestry.

The Dawes Arboretum, located in Newark, earned its spot in the Forest of Honor through a specialized partnership regarding wild-known origin tree species. This induction serves as a formal acknowledgment of the institution's advancement of Ohio forestry.

The players

The Dawes Arboretum

This Newark-based institution is a well-known site dedicated to increasing the public's love and knowledge of trees, history, and the natural world.

Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry

This state agency is responsible for the management and conservation of Ohio's public forests and the promotion of sustainable forestry practices.

The details

The award ceremony took place at the Forest of Honor located within Zaleski State Forest. By focusing on species of wild-known origin, the arboretum has helped the Division of Forestry strengthen the genetic diversity of the region's tree populations.

The induction ceremony for The Dawes Arboretum took place on October 1, 2026.

Culture Shift

This award reflects a broader trend of institutional recognition for private-public partnerships in conservation science. It marks a shift where the state increasingly relies on specialized arboreta to preserve rare, wild-known tree genetics for future reforestation efforts.

Residents and visitors to Newark can observe the research-driven tree plantings that led to this state-level recognition. This award underscores the value of maintaining local tree collections, which provide educational opportunities for the public.

The takeaway

Collaborative conservation efforts can lead to lasting recognition by state governing bodies. Institutions that prioritize wild-known genetic diversity contribute significantly to the long-term health of our state's forest ecosystems.