Rooted in Community: The Woodlands at EverTrue Laclede Groves Earns International Arboretum Accreditation

What happens when a group of passionate residents, a beautiful woodland and a shared love of nature come together? Something worth celebrating!

The Woodlands at EverTrue Laclede Groves in Webster Groves, MO., has achieved Level I Accreditation through the ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program, an international recognition of the community’s commitment to caring for natural spaces while promoting education, conservation and appreciation of trees and plants.

The arboretum will now be included in the Morton Register of Arboreta, a global listing recognizing accredited arboreta and their commitment to tree stewardship and environmental education.

The achievement is more than a certification. It reflects what can happen when residents are encouraged to share their knowledge, pursue their passions and work together to care for the natural beauty surrounding their community.

Creating Healthier Spaces for Trees and People

This accomplishment is rooted in teamwork. What began as a resident Landscaping Committee grew into a formal resident Woodland Committee and then an Arboretum Task Force, with a dedicated group of residents bringing diverse interests, experiences and expertise to the table.

Committee member and EverTrue Laclede Groves resident Wes remembers the early days and credits the support of Angie Wilson, EverTrue Laclede Groves Executive Director, who met with the group regularly.

“It’s about much more than trees. As we improve the health of the Woodlands and bring back native species, we’re creating a healthier space for people, birds and the entire ecosystem,” says Wes.

A Community Where Residents Can Pursue Their Passions

For EverTrue Laclede Groves resident and Co-Chair Inge, being part of the effort is something she may never have experienced elsewhere.

“If I didn’t live in an EverTrue Life Plan Community, I never would have been part of something like this,” she says. “I wouldn’t have these opportunities. We all came together to work out accommodating these different ideas. And look what we accomplished.”

Committee member and EverTrue Laclede Groves resident Mark sees the committee as a place where residents can turn their interests into action.

“This has given us a way to develop our passion in this area,” said Mark. “Very few places have such a wonderful woodland surrounding and are certified arboretums.”