LARIMORE, N.D. — The Myra Arboretum, outside of Larimore, ND, was established in the late 1970s as part of a larger conservation project in the Turtle River watershed. Hundreds of trees and shrubs grew well for a long time, though in recent years, insects and diseases began to take their toll as the site began to decline.
In 2015, the manager of the Myra Arboretum contacted the Grand Forks County Extension agent and the Forestry Specialist in an effort to develop a partnership to bring back the splendor of this site. Extension personnel provided assistance with grant writing and completed an inventory of the site in anticipation of redevelopment and replanting.
Since this project began, over $17,000 in external funding has been secured to remove dead-anddying trees and to plant new ones. A new Master Plan has been developed for the Myra Arboretum and three clean-up days have been held. Several tons of debris and brush have been removed with the help of NDSU Extension Master Gardeners, who donated 175 hours of labor in 2017 alone. New labels have been designed and are being placed throughout the site.
“We couldn’t do this work without the cooperation and help from NDSU Extension staff. Thank you so much.” – Myra Arboretum staff member
Communing with and enjoying nature feeds the soul. Educating and utilizing voluntary NDSU Extension Master Gardeners carries knowledge and experience on to other communities to help spread that joy.
— North Dakota State University Extension
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