About the Arboretum & Botanical Society of Langley
Our Story
As one might expect, Derek Doubleday Arboretum started after a seed was planted. In fact, the seed was an idea: to develop a plant collection in Langley that also serves as an informal public space and an interactive tool for environmental education.
Initially, Derek Doubleday Arboretum was envisaged as a traditional botanical garden. However, after numerous meetings with stakeholders and Township of Langley staff, a decision was reached to head in a slightly different direction. The 12 hectare former farm site, purchased by the Township of Langley from the Berry family in 2005, would fit better into the surrounding floodplain as a ‘Wetland Arboretum’. An Arboretum is similar to a traditional botanical garden, except that its focus is on trees and other woody plants. Derek Doubleday Arboretum has evolved over the past decade to be much more. Visitors can walk the 1km loop while learning about everything from green roof construction to growing beets! A number of educational programs are currently being taught out of Derek Doubleday Arboretum and there are many more on the horizon.
The park was dedicated by the Township of Langley in October of 2008 for Derek John Doubleday. He was a champion for the preservation of green space in Langley over a 34 year career with the Township of Langley. In the summer of 2009, a master planning process was initiated, bringing together dozens of stakeholders and design professionals. A plan and concept followed based on the following principles: A light footprint, A concentrated core, Recognize landscape values, Take cues from the site, Minimize infrastructure, Make it multi-purpose, Design for the long term.
ABSL Board
President: Les Clay
Vice-President: Al Richmond
Secretary: Bill Lindahl
Treasurer: Rudy Storteboom
Directors: Nichole Marples, Amanda Smith, James Pratt, Niall McGarvey, Nora Truman, Rudy Storteboom, Bill Lindahl, and Al Richmond
ABSL Mission & Charter
As part of the master planning process, the Arboretum and Botanical Society of Langley (ABSL) was formed to direct the growth of Derek Doubleday Arboretum, forgive the pun. Using the Master Plan and Arboretum Concept as a guide, they have worked with Rotary International, Langley Environmental Partners Society, Langley City and the Township of Langley, among others to construct the various gardens and facilities at Derek Doubleday Arboretum. As a society, the ABSL also raises its own funds through donations and membership. If you are interesting in contributing or becoming a member, you can sign up on our membership page.