American Public Gardens Association meets in Boston this June
The Arnold Arboretum is among five New England gardens hosting the 2024 annual conference of the American Public Gardens Association in Boston this summer. Public garden professionals from around the country and around the world will come together between June 24–27 to participate in the annual gathering, which is also hosted by Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Mount Auburn Cemetery, New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, and The Trustees.
Rooted in Resilience: A Sustainable Future for Gardens will be held at the Hilton Boston Park Plaza, a block away from Boston’s famous Public Garden. Hundreds of public horticulture professionals are expected to attend for a week of professional development sessions, networking events, garden tours, and more. The 2024 Presenting Partner is the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service.
“We are extremely excited to bring the Annual Conference to Boston,” said Michelle Provaznik, APGA CEO. “Boston’s long history within the public garden world and the many gardens in the region, makes it the perfect gathering place for to us to explore a sustainable future of public horticulture.”
The 2024 Conference theme, Rooted in Resilience: A Sustainable Future for Gardens, highlights Boston’s historic resilience and the city’s story of overcoming adversity and adapting to change. From playing a crucial role in the American Revolution to surviving disasters, Boston has always persevered and emerged stronger. Today, Boston demonstrates its adaptability through various sustainable initiatives, including ambitious urban forestry goals and a plan to become carbon-neutral by 2050. In Boston, resilience and social justice are intertwined, driving the city’s commitment to building a sustainable and equitable society.
The conference theme showcases the parallel between Boston’s remarkable resilience and the concept of sustainability within the realm of gardens. Public gardens play a vital role in promoting sustainable practices and empowering the next generation of environmental stewards. Through a range of green initiatives, including sustainable horticultural practices, educational programs, and community engagement, public gardens are building stronger communities, promoting access to green spaces, and connecting people with nature.
Participants will enjoy over 80 professional development sessions and workshops in five Specialty Tracks—Education and Science, Garden Management, Horticulture, Plant Collections and Conservation, and Public Engagement—in addition to tours of local public gardens, professional workshops, and special events at the host gardens.
Registration is now. Non-member registration is available for $100 more than the member rate. Two- and One-Day registration options are available.Visit the APGA website for more information.