A group of new stewards after the 2022 training.

Volunteer stewards serve as goodwill ambassadors, sharing information about Arboretum programs and work, explaining rules, and helping visitors. Stewards also assist staff with monitoring trail conditions and phenology. Each steward patrols at least four hours per month, exploring every part of the Arboretum and assisting visitors from across the Midwest and beyond. If you enjoy telling friends and strangers about the Arboretum, want to learn more about the Lost City, are curious about the research projects taking place here, and want to make a positive difference – consider becoming a volunteer steward.

Stewards will:

• independently patrol the trails in all seasons
• positively influence visitor experience
• record trail conditions and visitor interactions after each shift
• help protect the Arboretum

Steward training will be three sessions: September 9, 5:30–8:30 p.m., and September 12 and 13, 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. The deadline to sign up is September 2, 2026. There is no cost for steward training.

For more information or to sign up, contact Stephanie Petersen, (608) 262-2746, smpetersen2@wisc.edu.