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About

The Humber Arboretum consists of nearly 250 acres of public gardens and natural areas located in the Humber River watershed in North Etobicoke. Connected to Humber College North Campus, it exists as a unique tri-partnership between Humber College, the City of Toronto, and the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA). The Humber Arboretum is free to visit and offers a variety of programming to both Humber College students and the general public.

A toddler in a snowsuit watches as her father holds up a hand filled with bird seeds.

Vision

Humber Arboretum is a thriving natural ecosystem and outdoor learning space that advances the highest potential and well-being of the community through strengthening our relationships with nature and with each other.

Mission

Together we:

  • Protect and care for our natural world in ways that continually model leading practices and motivate others to emulate and further develop these practices.
  • Facilitate nature-based experiences and nurture environments that foster learning, spark innovation, and inspire action.
  • Connect people with nature to benefit the health of both and uplift the well-being of communities.

 As defined in the Humber Arboretum 2019 to 2024 Strategic Plan.

Policy

Read the full Humber Arboretum Policy from Humber College.

History

A clearly aged photo shows an old wooden nature centre in a much sparser Humber Arboretum

The idea for the Humber Arboretum began in 1972, when horticultural students from Humber College saw undeveloped land beside the campus as an opportunity to practice their skills. It officially opened in September 1977 as a joint venture between Humber College, Toronto and Region Conservation, the City of Metropolitan Toronto, and the City of Etobicoke.

Values

Two staff members working on in-ground mosaic look up to smile for the camera

Leadership, courage, respect, learning, reciprocity, and well-being - learn about the values that drive everything we do.

Community & Partners

A smiling woman holds up a flyer for free gardening workshops at the Arboretum

Learn more about the unique tripartnership at the heart of the Humber Arboretum, plus our many other community connections and partnerships.

Support Us

A robin perched on a branch holds a mouthful of worms.

Discover ways you can help support the work of the Humber Arboretum.