Washington Park Arboretum Community Survey and Engagement
Seattle, WA / 2023
Seva Workshop led this community engagement effort to help the Arboretum Foundation better understand its user and non-user needs and better integrate equity into future planning and programming.
In collaboration with the Arboretum Foundation and University of Washington Botanical Gardens, Seva crafted and implemented an engagement plan to reach both existing Arboretum users as well as non-users, including communities typically underrepresented in parks planning. Over the summer of 2023 the Seva team engaged nearly 6,000 community members about the future of the Arboretum through an online survey, on-site intercept surveys of Arboretum and Japanese Garden users, tabling at community events throughout Seattle, and interviewing representatives from underserved communities.
Our analysis of these survey responses, conversations, and interviews sought to understand how people use and value the Arboretum, the distinct needs and desires of users and non-users, and what an equitable and inclusive future for the Arboretum could encompass. Our final report details key findings and recommendations for the Japanese Garden, North End Parcel, and Arboretum. Informed by this report, future improvements to the Arboretum facilities and programming will strive to rectify the long-entrenched inequities in the history of botany and public gardens.
Learn more about the Community Survey.
Illustrations by Natalie Dupille; photos by Ulysses Curry.
The Arboretum Community Engagement study is both unique and innovative compared to typical engagement studies for several reasons:
- Ecological and Social Vision: Instead of simply expanding green space, recommendations envision the Arboretum—including the new North End Parcel—as a multi-purpose hub that balances ecological restoration, active social use (from urban agriculture to waterfront access and performance/dance spaces), education, and an expanded role in climate response and botanical equity.
- Ongoing, Relationship-Based Approach: The report doesn’t treat engagement as a one-time project. Its recommendations push for sustained partnerships with both individuals and organizations, calling for dedicated resources to keep listening and adjusting to the evolving needs of the community, especially those previously overlooked.
- Indigenous Partnership Focus: A standout element is the approach to Indigenous recognition and partnership. Recommendations explicitly calls for the Coast Salish people to lead the conversation about recognizing their relationship with the land, incorporating their input on how best to steward, manage, and honor both the environment and their cultural contributions. Suggestions like dedicating land and resources for Coast Salish use, and integrating Indigenous art, artifacts, and language.
Together, the methods and priorities of the study reveal a transformative model of community engagement. The Arboretum Community Engagement effort isn’t just about gathering feedback—it’s about resetting relationships, aiming for inclusivity, ecological stewardship, and authentic long-term partnerships that reflect the values of all community members.
Photo: Jason Morse
