Lake Wilderness Arboretum Foundation

The Lake Wilderness Arboretum Foundation is a nonprofit organization with the EIN 91-6067924. It serves as the steward for the Lake Wilderness Arboretum, a 40-acre arboretum located in Maple Valley, Washington. The foundation is responsible for managing and maintaining the arboretum, which is known for its focus on Northwest native plants and its extensive collection of Western Azalea (Rhododendron occidentale), featuring over 200 selections of the species[1][2].

History and Establishment

The Lake Wilderness Arboretum was initially established as part of a nonprofit effort in 1965, with its design completed in 1970. The Western Azalea Garden was dedicated in June 2000. In January 2003, the City of Maple Valley finalized the transfer of Lake Wilderness Park and the Arboretum from King County. Shortly thereafter, in April 2003, the arboretum's name was changed from South King County Arboretum to Lake Wilderness Arboretum. The name of the foundation was updated to Lake Wilderness Arboretum Foundation in 2007[1].

Activities and Community Engagement

The Lake Wilderness Arboretum Foundation is involved in various community activities and events throughout the year. These include environmental fairs, plant sales, and community clean-up events, which aim to promote sustainability and environmental awareness. The foundation organizes events such as the Earth Day Fair and the Spring Plant Sale, which serve both as educational opportunities and fundraising initiatives for the arboretum[3].

Mission and Operations

As a mostly volunteer-driven organization, the Lake Wilderness Arboretum Foundation operates with limited resources but strives to maintain the arboretum as a vibrant community asset. The foundation oversees the daily operation of the arboretum, ensuring it remains open to the public free of charge, in line with its mission to inspire, educate, and connect the community with nature[5].