The more than 400 trees surrounding you represent nearly 50 species — from familiar favorites like oak and pine to unique nursery-grown cultivars such as Red Sunset Maple and Snowdrift Crabapple.
This is more than landscaping. This is a living collection.
The Parking Lot Arboretum was created as a cooperative effort between the Arbor Day Foundation, urban foresters, landscape design consultants, corporations, charitable foundations, and passionate local tree donors from Nebraska City. Together, they transformed an everyday arrival space into an educational and environmental asset.
Many of the trees here were carefully relocated to this site — some quite large — using specialized tree spades capable of moving root balls up to 94 inches in diameter. A number of these trees arrived with trunk diameters of 12 inches and heights reaching 18 feet.
This space is rooted in intention.
Why These Trees Matter
Trees are powerful. Not just symbolically — but scientifically, environmentally, and economically.
Here in the arboretum, you’re standing among species that:
Help clean our drinking water
Improve air quality
Manage stormwater runoff
Reduce the effects of climate change
Lower energy use
Provide natural cooling
Support physical and mental health
Feed communities
Create habitat for wildlife
Every tree plaque offers a snapshot. This page will continue to grow with expanded profiles that explore each species’ history, characteristics, ideal growing conditions, and environmental contributions.
A Living Extension of the Mission
The Parking Lot Arboretum reflects the broader purpose of the Arbor Day Foundation: inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees.
It’s a reminder that trees belong everywhere — in forests, in communities, and even in parking lots.
Your visit doesn’t have to end here.
Be a Tree Planting Hero
Just beyond this space, you’ll find opportunities to deepen your experience at Arbor Day Farm — including Tree Adventure, educational exhibits, and hands-on ways to learn more about planting and caring for trees.
But there’s an even bigger invitation.
Grow With Us
If this arboretum sparked curiosity, inspiration, or simply appreciation, we’d love to keep you connected.
Get Involved:
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Learn about volunteer opportunities
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Explore workshops and seasonal programming
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Discover upcoming events and family activities
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Support tree planting efforts locally and globally
