MESA developed a Master Plan for the 100 acre arboretum and botanical
garden. The master plan provides for several amenities and opportunities
to experience many varied environments. Proposed improvements include
Visitors and Administration Center, a Wildflower Meadow and Prairie Restoration,
Woodland Walk and Garden, and The Aquatic and Marsh Garden. A looping
trail system allows the visitor the ability to select from several options.
These separate gardens will consist of indigenous plant collections as
well as
exotic plants suited for their respective habitats. Also proposed is the
East Texas Heritage Area, which includes the development of an "historic
settlement" that conveys some of the cultural and historic contributions
of the area is located on the Eastern edge of the site. In addition to
the natural settings the Master Plan provides a Research and Education
Area separate from the garden. Classrooms, laboratories, offices, maintenance
areas, compost facilities and experimental gardens will all be incorporated
as part of this development.
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