The Education Center is now open to the public and being used for Arboretum programming, events and administration. This unique building was constructed from 21 tree species harvested from the Arboretum’s forest and serves as an inspiring example of traditional timber frame craftsmanship.

An Appeal for Our Better Nature

Throughout its existence, education has been an important mission of Mountain Top Arboretum and we now have a beautiful new timber frame Education Center to strengthen our programming. The building, constructed with timber harvested from the Arboretum’s forest, demonstrates the beauty and value of 21 tree species and the talent of local artisans, including the noted timber frame architect Jack Sobon. The new Education Center is already hosting year-round programming and school groups, and helping to boost responsible tourism in the region.

The landscape phase of the project, designed by landscape architect Jamie Purinton, uses plants native to the Catskill Mountains and a system of six separate Rain Gardens that catch and filter water runoff. We anticipate that these beautiful plantings will inspire and educate visitors about water and land stewardship, one of the important tenets of our mission.