Arboretum

Arboretum

The Althouse Arboretum is a project of the 501c3 nonprofit GreenAllies organization.

Althouse Arboretum, promoting health and wellness for people, plants, and the planet through student-run projects and initiatives, most designed to educate and promote outdoor experiences for our community.

Named for Reverand and Violet Althouse, the last residents of the property, it is located largely on Upper Pottsgrove Open Space land at 1794 Gilbertsville Road. The Arboretum serves as an outdoor education center and community space.  GreenAllies manages and maintains the property and sponsors over 50 community programs per year.

A rare and unique opportunity exists with this 17-acre open space property to promote environmental preservation and education for an entire community and beyond. It has recently been connected to Sussel Park and Prout Farm, two other large open space lands to increase our program options while preserving additional acreage.

Accredited Arboretum

Becoming an Accredited Arboretum recognizes a level of professionalism. Among the qualifications for Level 1 is to have identified at least 25 different varieties of trees and shrubs. At the Arboretum we have identified 48 so far. The average forest has less than 20.

Certified Wildlife Habitat

To be a certified Wildlife Habitat it’s necessary to provide, food, water, shelter, a place to raise young and sustainable practices in maintaining the area. The Arboretum does it all. If you’re interested you can too!

Pollinator Friendly Garden

  • Provide Food (nectar and pollen)
  • Provide a Water Source
  • Provide Nesting Sites
  • Safeguard Pollinators by Avoiding Invasive Plants and Pesticides
  • You can too!


History

For years the Upper Pottsgrove Township has acted on a very progressive open space plan that values the preservation of the land while providing passive recreation. This commitment has resulted in the strategic acquisition of many open spaces that, when completed, will provide a long contiguous trail system throughout the township, including connections to surrounding communities. The  “Althouse tract” is a vital link for the completion of the township’s trail system by connecting two other open space parcels. This 17 acre site also allows the township to meet many of its Open Space Plan goals such as:

  • Potential linkage to existing parks, open spaces, or trails
  • Environmental or view conservation value
  • Presence of historic resources
  • Continue to create non-sports activities for teens and adults