Bonita Lakes Watershed Arboretum Fund

The Bonita Lakes Watershed Arboretum is an educational project at the Bonita Lakes Park in Meridian, MS, which features over 85 species of trees and plants tagged with identification labels and QR codes to provide visitors with more information via their phones. The arboretum aims to educate the public about the area's plant life, encourage awareness of the natural environment, and boost ecotourism within the 3,300-acre park, which serves as a vital freshwater source for the city.

• Educational Trail:.The arboretum is a designated trail where visitors can learn about different tree and plant species through informational tags and scannable QR codes. 

• QR Code Information:.Scanning the QR codes directs users to a website with a bio for each species, including its Latin name, genus, family, and characteristics. 

• Community Effort:.The project was made possible by Meridian resident Ollie Wilkes's seed money, a Mississippi Forestry Commission grant, and the expertise of Mississippi State University assistant professor Dr. Joshua Granger. 

 

Purpose

Education: To provide a hands-on way for people to learn about the different trees and plants in the area. 

Ecotourism: To attract eco-tourists to Meridian and highlight the natural beauty and resources of Bonita Lakes Park. Conservation Awareness: To foster a greater appreciation for the natural wonders of Mississippi and the importance of trees.