The Arboretum at the University of Guelph January 21, 2015

Summary of January 21 presentation:  

The Arboretum at the University of Guelph comprises over 400 acres of botanical collections, gardens, and natural areas. One of the only true Arboreta in Canada, we focus on native plants and plants of known origin in more than 30 collections. Our natural areas, including wetlands, meadows, and upland deciduous forest form an important part of the City of Guelph’s natural heritage system. Research and conservation projects include the development and maintenance of a Native Woody Plants of Ontario Gene Bank and an Elm Recovery Project. Our education and outreach programs inspire students and members of the broader community to connect to the natural world. The Arboretum has a wealth of different environments and features to explore and photograph all through the year. Shelley’s presentation will give an overview of the Arboretum and its mission, including behind-the-scenes work that is not always apparent to visitors. The talk will also highlight interesting areas and features that may inspire you to take beautiful pictures.

Shelley Hunt - Short Bio:

 Shelley holds a B.Sc. in Environmental Sciences (1996) and a PhD in Environmental Biology (2003) from the University of Guelph, and spent many years doing research on the ecology of pine and spruce plantations in northern Ontario. She joined the faculty of the School of Environmental Sciences at U of Guelph in 2006, and was appointed director of the Arboretum in February 2013. Shelley teaches courses in Environmental Sciences, and continues to do research in forest ecology and restoration. Shelley lives near the Luther Marsh, in Damascus, Ontario, with her husband and four-year-old son. They enjoy planting trees on their rural property.