The University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum recently became a national historic site, as it is recognized as the birthplace of ecological restoration of prairie ecological communities.
In order to be listed on the register, a property must be at least 50 years old and demonstrate its significance in architecture, its association with a person of historic importance, its archaeological potential, or its history — which can include conservation.
Elizabeth Miller, a Madison native and an architectural historian, wrote the nomination for the listing on the register, assessing its eligibility starting in 2003. Along with North Hall and Science Hall, the Arboretum gains greater protections than it previously had by its inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. This makes it more difficult for future owners to alter the space.
“It’s been a long time and I’m just so thrilled the Arboretum is listed on the National Register,” said Miller.
The research done on ecological restoration at the Arboretum is considered as a model for further research and restoration being done all over the country after it was regarded as the best practice in land management for both restored and natural landscapes by federal government agencies such as NEPA, the National Environment Policy Act.
After going to the National Park Society for its final approval, the Arboretum was granted its new status Wednesday morning.
“It’s just the most amazing property,” she says. “It absolutely deserves it.”
