Special Projects
Every year, we undertake a wide variety of special projects and initiatives to help Mount Auburn thrive. Learn more below and help support our work!
Current Projects to Support
Willow Pond Habitat Restoration
Since Mount Auburn’s previous waterbodies assessment in 2017, several changes to our ponds have been observed, including increased erosion, the arrival of invasive plant species such as Reed Canary Grass (Phalaris arundinacea), and the increase in the power of storm events, all of which have negative impacts on the health of these water features.
With an updated assessment completed in August 2025, we now need your help to ensure the successful planting of native aquatic species to promote wildlife habitat and improve the health of this beloved water feature.
Our Special Project Areas
Horticulture & Urban Ecology
You can help us keep our landscape beautiful and sustainable for everyone. Mount Auburn is an accredited arboretum and botanical garden, featuring a nationally-significant collection of more than 5,000 trees and 10,000 shrubs and groundcover plants. It is also a vital wildlife refuge and a living laboratory for scientists and educators studying how best to support the species who depend on this urban ecosystem.Â
Current project to support:
Preservation & Archives
When you walk around Mount Auburn, you are surrounded by the evolving history of funerary art. Our diverse collection of monuments is the reason for so much of our landscape’s beauty, educational value, and historical significance. You can help us preserve these unique monuments by supporting our staff’s daily work across Mount Auburn, or by making a gift to one of our specific upcoming projects.
Recent completed projects:
Arts at Mount Auburn
You can help continue Mount Auburn’s long tradition of inspiring art and creativity. Since its founding, visitors have experienced our landscape as an outdoor museum and place for inspiration, as well as a place of burial. From public programs to our Artist Residency, we continue to support the creation of new work every year. Watercolor by Zhonghe (Elena) Li. Read More about our past and current Artists.