Landis 2025 Report Highlights Growth in Conservation, Arts

ESPERANCE — The Landis Arboretum continued its mission of environmental preservation and community engagement throughout 2025, emphasizing its dual role as a horticultural sanctuary and a hub for the arts in the historic Schoharie Valley.

In its 2025 annual report, the nearly 300-acre private nonprofit highlighted significant efforts in upgrading infrastructure and maintaining its historical integrity. These improvements were supported by a diverse stream of funding, led by fundraising, which accounted for 32% of the organization's income.

"The George Landis Arboretum is a nonprofit 501c3 organization," the report stated, noting that financial stability relies on memberships, charitable donations, and multiple grants. The arboretum also noted the benefit of matching programs from local corporations, including General Electric.

The arboretum, established in 1951 by Fred Lape, serves as a destination for education and recreation. It features more than eight miles of trails, old-growth forests, and specialized areas such as the Fern Glen and Native Plant Trail. Throughout the year, the organization utilized sound environmental practices to restore horticultural collections and mitigate the effects of invasive species to improve plant health.

Beyond its natural collections, Landis reinforced its long tradition as an arts center. Programming for 2025 included on-site installations, a concert series, and signature events such as its plant, book, and bake sales. Educational outreach programs targeted all ages to foster environmental appreciation.

The arboretum remains open to the public from dawn to dusk daily. Current leadership includes Board of Trustees President Jim Paley and Executive Director Fred Breglia. Financial records for the organization are available for review by appointment at its office in Esperance.