FONA Field Notes

Friends of the National Arboretum is honored to carry forward the legacy of the National Bonsai Foundation (NBF), which will conclude its operations at the end of this month after more…

Thank you to everyone who donated to FONA’s Giving Tuesday campaign this week. Every dollar makes a difference in helping FONA’s programs continue to thrive and connect people to nature at…

Funding has grown uncertain for nonprofits everywhere, and FONA is no exception. Grants in particular have become highly competitive and unpredictable. FONA’s education programs rely on this funding source in order…

The National Arboretum is open to the public once more. Come take a walk — there is a lot to explore during late autumn! Little pops of color are beginning to…

Get in the holiday spirit at the National Arboretum this year. FONA is thrilled to host two special events this holiday season to connect you with plants, nature, and community…

Have you heard the exciting news? FONA will host the Fall 5K at the National Arboretum this Sunday, November 9th! FONA has been given a very special opportunity by the U.S. Department…

Many fruits and vegetables with rich cultural connections to our D.C. community grow in the Washington Youth Garden. The hakurei turnip is one such vegetable growing in the garden right now. The hakurei…

It is with heavy hearts that we share news of Scott Aker’s passing on October 13, 2025. Scott joined the National Arboretum’s team in 1992, and spent 30 years sharing…

When Harold Belcher was a teenager growing up in Cheverly, Maryland in the 1960s, the U.S. National Arboretum became his haven. “I would ride my bike all over and wander…

The National Arboretum remains closed due to the lapse in federal funding. FONA is doing what we can to support the Arboretum, our program partners, and our community. Our SPROUT…