Bayard+Arboretum

== = = = = =History= The Bayard Cutting Arboretum was donated to the Long Island State Park Region by Mrs. William Bayard Cutting and her daughter, Mrs. Olivia James, in memory of William Bayard Cutting, " to provide an oasis of beauty and quiet for the pleasure, rest and refreshment of those who delight in outdoor beauty; and to bring about a greater appreciation and understanding of the value and importance of informal planting." Utilizing plans conceived by the noted landscape architectural firm of Frederick Law Olmstead, the arboretum development was begun in 1887. The site was originally wooded and many of the large oaks now seen were retained during the clearing of the land. With the cooperation of Charles Sprague Sergeant, then director of Boston's Arnold Arboretum, Mr. Cutting several years later began to plant his conifer collection in the area just north of the Carriage House. Unfortunately, and in most instances the result of a severe hurricane in 1985, many of these original plants have been lost. However, because of subsequent plantings made during and after the 1940's, the current collection of fir, spruce, pine, cypress, hemlock, yew and other lesser known conifers is still probably the most extensive to be found on Long Island. Contained within the collection are several trees which, regionally, are the largest of their species. Also found are extensive plantings of dwarf evergreens, rhododendron, azaleas, hollies and oaks. Wildflowers and daffodils are featured in many native woodland locations. Combined with the site's ponds and streamlets, these areas also provide opportunities to observe a broad range of land and aquatic birds and occasional glimpses of fox, raccoon and other small wildlife.

Located in the former Cutting residence are magnificent fireplaces, woodworkings, stained glass windows and a small natural history display. The manor house also contains a café with an open porch overlooking the Connetquot River, a gift shop and the administration office.

=Rules/Fees=

The arboretum is a passive park and activities such as biking, picnicking, sports, bathing and games are not permitted. Call the Arboretum for hours of operation and more information on Arboretum policies. Hours of Operation Nov 1st through April 3, 2009: Entrance Gates Open 10am- 4pm April 4th through October, 2009 (subject to change): Entrance Gates Open 10am- 5pm Entrance Fees of $6 per vehicle are collected from April 4th through October. Advance reservations for all large passenger vehicles are required. Bayard Cutting Arboretum has limited parking so please call ahead 631.581.1002. Advance reservations and a permit are required to take wedding or any event photography at Bayard Cutting Arboretum. Limited photography permits are available so you are encouraged to plan well in advance. A minimum two week advance registration is required. There is a $100 fee plus vehicle entry fees. No parties without a valid permit will be allowed to enter the Arboretum. Call the Arboretum office at 631.581.1002 for more information. = =