Maple Excellence Program

Maple Excellence Program

Maple Excellence Program

The Maple Society of Europe (TMSE) is thrilled to announce the launch of our European Maple Excellence Program, a prestigious initiative designed to recognize and celebrate exceptional maple collections throughout Europe and beyond. No matter where in the world you are located, if you are a member, individual or corporate, of The Maple Society of Europe, you can participate. This program seeks to commend the botanical quality, diversity, and aesthetic beauty of maple collections, acknowledging their significance in both public and private settings. We are introducing two distinct categories within this program: ‘Arboreta of Excellence’ and ‘Gardens of Distinction’, which will be described in detail later. These categories will honor the unique contributions of large-scale arboreta and more intimate garden settings, respectively. An application process will be made available for those interested in having their collections considered for this recognition, encouraging a broader appreciation and conservation of maples.

Overview

The European Maple Excellence Program will designate outstanding collections as “Maple Centers of Excellence” based on the following criteria:

  1. Botanical Quality: For arboreta, emphasis on scientific accuracy, taxonomic diversity, and conservation efforts.
  2. Aesthetic Appeal: For gardens, focus on the beauty and landscape design incorporating maples.
  3. Diversity: Representation of a wide range of Acer species, subspecies, and cultivars.
  4. Conservation: Efforts to preserve rare or endangered maple taxa.
  5. Education: Programs or resources to educate visitors about maples.

The program is open to both public and private collections belonging to members , with two main categories:

  1. Arboreta of Excellence: Recognizing scientifically managed collections with a focus on species including botanical accuracy and research.
  2. Gardens of Distinction: Honouring aesthetically designed landscapes showcasing the beauty and diversity of maples and their multiple cultivars.

Private gardens designated as Centers of Excellence will be required to offer access to Maple Society members.

Eligibility and Categories

Benefits of Recognition
&

Promoting Maple Appreciation

Designated Maple Centers of Excellence will receive:

  • Official certification from The Maple Society of Europe
  • Inclusion in a published guide of outstanding maple collections
  • Promotion through the Society’s website and publications
  • Networking opportunities with other maple enthusiasts and experts
  • Support for conservation and research initiatives

This initiative aims to:

  • Encourage the cultivation and conservation of diverse maple species
  • Provide valuable resources for research and education
  • Inspire both professionals and enthusiasts to explore the world of maples
  • Create a network of exemplary maple collections across Europe

By recognizing these Maple Centers of Excellence, The Maple Society of Europe hopes to foster greater appreciation for the genus Acer and support ongoing efforts in maple conservation and research

Application Process

Interested gardens and arboreta, which fulfil the eligibility criteria described above, can apply by submitting:

  • A detailed inventory of their maple collection
  • Photographic/Web documentation
  • Description of conservation efforts and educational programs, if any.
  • Access policies for TMSE members (for private gardens)

Applications will be reviewed by a Panel of Experts nominated by The Maple Society of Europe.

Any inquiries regarding this Program should be addressed to secretary@maplesociety-europe.org

Criteria and weights to be used by the Panel of Experts to select the Maples Centers of Excellence

The program is open to both public and private collections

  1. Collection Diversity and Rarity (30%)
    • Taxonomic diversity of Acer species and cultivars
    • Presence of rare or endangered maple taxa
    • Representation of different maple ecosystems
  2. Scientific Accuracy and Research (25%)
    • Accuracy of taxonomic identification and labeling
    • Ongoing research projects related to maples
    • Publications or contributions to maple knowledge
  3. Conservation Efforts (20%)
    • Programs for preserving rare or endangered maple species
    • Sustainable management practices
    • Seed banking or propagation initiatives
  4. Educational Programs (15%)
    • Quality and frequency of educational events
    • Availability of interpretive materials
    • Collaboration with academic institutions
  5. Documentation and Record-Keeping (10%)
    • Completeness and accuracy of collection records
    • Use of modern database systems for collection management
    • Sharing of data with other institutions or researchers

Arboreta of Excellence

Gardens of Distinction

  1. Aesthetic Design and Landscape Integration (30%)
    • Overall beauty and design of the maple collection
    • Integration of maples into the broader landscape
    • Seasonal interest and display
  2. Collection Quality and Diversity (25%)
    • Variety of maple species and cultivars
    • Health and condition of specimens
    • Unique or noteworthy specimens
  3. Visitor Experience and Accessibility (20%)
    • Garden layout and ease of navigation
    • Quality of visitor facilities and amenities
    • Accessibility for visitors, including those with disabilities
  4. Educational Value (15%)
    • Informative signage and plant labels
    • Guided tours or self-guided materials
    • Educational events or workshops for the public
  5. Sustainability Practices (10%)
    • Water conservation methods
    • Use of environmentally friendly maintenance practices
    • Efforts to promote biodiversity within the garden

These criteria and weights are designed to reflect the different focuses of arboreta (scientific and conservation-oriented) and gardens (aesthetic and visitor-oriented) while still maintaining high standards for both categories in the Maple Centers of Excellence program

Interested in becoming a member?

The Maple Society of Europe invites you to join us, and find out more about these fascinating trees that offer variety in every month of the year. All levels of enthusiasts are welcome!
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