University acquires Crosby Arboretum in south Mississippi

Already boasting a presence in every county in the state through the extension service, Mississippi State now has another significant presence in South Mississippi.

The Crosby Arboretum in Picayune formally became part of the university last fall. Valued at $5 million, the arboretum was established in 1980 as a living memorial to L.O. Crosby Jr., a South Mississippi timber pioneer and philanthropist.

The Crosby Foundation donated the arboretum in July.

The Crosby Arboretum manages more than 1,000 acres in seven natural areas, supporting more than 700 species of native trees, shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers. It houses a 64-acre Interpretive Center that includes visitor facilities.

Dr. Rodney Foil, vice president for agriculture, forestry and veterinary medicine, said the arboretum will serve more people through the alliance with the university.

"It is expected that collaborative research involving the Crosby staff and university faculty members will substantially increase the activity and utility of the arboretum," Foil said.

In addition to displaying the region's natural beauty, the arboretum gives courses and seminars in botany, horticulture, and landscape architecture.