Always Growing
Morris Arboretum


Botanical Consultants

Tim and Ann The PA Flora Project conducts botanical research in Pennsylvania, and has been doing so since the 1930's. On occasion, the expert staff of the PA Flora Project is contracted as consultants to perform botanical surveys, research, or other specialized services. Such contracts have included work for municipalities and state parks. The Botany Department of the Morris Arboretum is one of three organizations under contract with the Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks to conduct natural resource inventories of selected state parks.

Ann Many counties and municipalities in eastern Pennsylvania recently have passed or currently are considering passage of various measures to preserve open space. Many municipalities already own or are considering purchasing land to preserve as natural areas. Guidance from professional biologists on what lands to purchase, how to manage new or existing natural areas, or how to learn what biological and other natural resources exist on these lands can be vital to the success of these programs. The staff of the Botany Department has the expertise and experience to provide these services.

Our staff has many years of professional experience conducting biological inventories, developing resource management plans, and providing guidance on biological issues such as managing invasive species or preserving habitat for rare, threatened, and endangered species. We maintain a close relationship with and employ an extensive network of naturalists including herpetologists, ornithologists, entomologists, mycologists, geologists, and hydrologists enabling us to provide our clients with the comprehensive information needed to make informed decisions. We also are experienced in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology for mapping natural resources and biological analysis.

Tim Although some areas of our state seem "untouchable" by the pressures of development, our experience tells us not to be complacent in preserving our wild places while there's still time. The importance of preserving open space for future generations is widely recognized by an overwhelming majority of Pennsylvanians. 

For a comprehensive overview of the different kinds of research the Botany Department at the Arboretum has been involved in, click here. We welcome the opportunity to talk with you further about our services and how we can help you in your efforts to satisfy the need to protect our precious natural heritage. To contact us about the services we offer, please call us at the Arboretum's main number below, or write to us at the e-mail address below.

Photos: Morris Arboretum botanists Timothy A. Block, Ph.D., and Ann F. Rhoads, Ph.D., in the field