Cheyenne seeks $2.5M to revive historic arboretum and restore community greenery

In a spirited session on February 7, 2025, the Wyoming Legislature gathered to discuss the future of the historic arboretum in Cheyenne, a site rich in both ecological and cultural significance. The arboretum, established in the late 1920s, was initially created to cultivate trees suited for the harsh High Plains climate, a mission that has evolved over the decades. Today, it stands as a testament to the state’s agricultural heritage and a potential hub for sustainable forestry research.

During the meeting, Representative Nicholas highlighted the arboretum's historical roots and its critical role in providing tree seedlings for windbreaks across Wyoming. However, he expressed concern over the decline of the arboretum's facilities, particularly the greenhouse, which has fallen into disrepair. With only 700 to 800 trees remaining from the original 5,000, the urgency to revitalize this landmark is palpable.

The discussion turned to funding, with Nicholas proposing an amendment to allocate $2.5 million from the tourism trust account to restore the greenhouse and support the arboretum's operations. This funding is seen as essential to not only preserve the site but also to potentially generate up to 50,000 seedlings annually, aiding in reforestation efforts across the state, especially in areas affected by recent wildfires.

Support for the amendment came from several representatives who emphasized the arboretum's potential as a tourist attraction and its importance in maintaining Wyoming's agricultural legacy. Representative Steidhar noted the significance of the adjacent Veterans National Cemetery, suggesting that improvements to the arboretum could enhance the experience for visitors and families attending services.

However, the proposal faced opposition from some legislators who questioned the return on investment, citing the estimated 10,000 annual visitors and the high costs associated with maintaining the site. Concerns were raised about whether state funds should be used to support a local initiative, with some arguing that the city of Cheyenne should take the lead in managing the arboretum.

Despite the differing opinions, the overarching sentiment was one of preservation and community involvement. The meeting underscored a collective desire to safeguard Wyoming's natural heritage while fostering a space that could educate future generations about sustainable practices and the state's rich history.

As the session concluded, the fate of the arboretum remained uncertain, but the discussions highlighted a critical juncture for this historic site. With ongoing efforts to secure funding and community support, the hope is to breathe new life into the arboretum, ensuring it continues to thrive as a vital resource for Wyoming's residents and visitors alike.