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Department of Biological Sciences

  • Arboretum Entrance

W. Gordon Belser Arboretum

The W. Gordon Belser Arboretum is a nature preserve located within Columbia, South Carolina. Unlike much of the flat, pine-covered Midlands of South Carolina, the 10-acre W. Gordon Belser Arboretum is a collection of plant communities consisting of ten different biomes (habitats), a waterfall, a Botanical Garden, and many unique exhibits.

Mission

The mission of the Belser Arboretum is to:

  • maintain a wildlife preserve within metropolitan Columbia;
  • serve as an outdoor field laboratory and lecture site for students at the University of South Carolina;
  • function as a conservation outreach center for visitors.

The W. Gordon Belser Arboretum is a sanctuary dedicated to education and to the preservation of the site's diverse, native habitats. Although the city has numerous recreational parks, no other preserve in the Columbia metropolitan region also serves as a teaching field station. The University of South Carolina campus is located within a 10-minute drive, making the Arboretum easily accessible to students who use the Arboretum for their classes or volunteer work.

 

Directions to W. Gordon Belser Arboretum

     The main gate to the Belser Arboretum is located at 4080 Bloomwood Road, Columbia, SC 29205. This is just one block off Devine Street, near the corner of Bloomwood Road, Poinsettia Street, and Blossom Street. A second gate is located on Wilmot Avenue, between Kalmia and Kilbourne Streets. See Map for more details.  Map to Arboretum

 

 


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