2025 Tree Tours

Nut Trees in the Dominion Arboretum

Tuesday, August 5, 3:00 p.m. Click here

The Conifer Walk

Sunday, August 24, 9:30 a.m. Click here

Stay tuned for information on other tree tours.

AAFC/FCEF Speakers Series

Composting and Compost Use for Healthier Soils

Wednesday, August 20th, 4:30 p.m. Click here

This event is part of a new FCEF Speaker Series that provides the opportunity to learn more about the Central Experimental Farm: its history, its successes, and the role and importance of its ongoing research. This free Series features scientists from the CEF’s Ottawa Research and Development Centre, who will take you into their fascinating worlds of beneficial insects and invertebrates; the art and science of composting; and invasive species and biovigilance. The Series will be also include presentations on the history of the Central Experimental Farm and its horticultural legacy and Notable Women of the Farm 

Click here to see more information about the entire series.

Have you missed some of our tours of the Ornamental Gardens?

Did you know there is a section of our website that provides a description of each garden along with a map?

Click here to visit the Guide to the Ornamental Gardens.

The Celebritree Program

Are you looking for a meaningful way to celebrate a person, group or event? The CelebriTree program allows you to sponsor a young tree in the historic Dominion Arboretum for a $1,000 donation. Each tree is tagged noting your celebration and QR‑coded story link, and is cared for by AAFC staff for a 10‑year term (with the option to renew for another 10 years).

We will be releasing 20 new trees for dedication in mid‑to‑late September 2025. Program details—and an interactive map of 2023 and 2024 CelebriTree locations—can be explored on the CelebriTree page of our website.

The 2025 tree species, locations and application opening date will be added in the next few weeks - please check back often!

Pathways to the Trees at the Central Experimental Farm

Our Latest Book Is Still Available!

Pathways to the Trees showcases the Farm’s remarkable collection of trees in the Arboretum as well as on the main campus and in the Merivale Shelterbelt. It suggests eight different guided walks to enhance your visit to the Farm and includes commentary on the history and landscape, as well as in-depth information about the featured trees. The stunning photographs celebrate the beauty of the trees in all seasons and range from minute details to overall shapes and colours.



Click here to purchase your copy now. We currently have a promotion that grants a 20% discount on two of our other books, Building Canada's Farm and Blooms, An Illustrated History of the Ornamental Gardens at Ottawa’s Central Experimental Farm, when you buy the new book.

Visit our online Boutique to view all of our books and greeting cards. Thank you for your orders -- the proceeds help support the valuable work we do!

Are You That Special Someone?

We currently have several interesting volunteer opportunities

Board of Directors:

Treasurer 

• The Treasurer is a member of the Executive Committee and is responsible for and advises the Board on financial and budget matters. This position is supported by a volunteer bookkeeper and requires experience/knowledge in managing the financial affairs of a business or of another not-for-profit charitable organization, as well as accounting experience using QuickBooks.  Professional designation is desired.  Ideal for recent retiree/semi-retired professional!

Events Director:



• The Director will oversee the coordinators of each event and offers suggestions and assistance when needed. Makes arrangements for the Annual General Meeting. Shows initiative and suggests potential future events/fundraisers.

More information on board positions can be found here.

Volunteer Positions:

Volunteer Coordinator Position

• The Friends of the Farm is looking for a Volunteer Coordinator to manage our volunteers. The main role is to assign volunteers to the garden teams, the various events, and the office, matching the job to be done with volunteer preferences. Strong organizational and communication skills are required. Experience with Google Workspace is an asset. Time commitment is 3-4 hours weekly or biweekly. This is a year-round position with the main work spring to fall. Join the team of dedicated volunteers!

If you are interested in any of these opportunities, please submit your résumé or questions to: volunteerdirector@friendsofthefarm.ca