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Francis' Work at AU Arboretum Earns an ABC "Pat on the Back"

Special to the News
Opelika-Auburn News November 8, 2006

Christy Francis teaches children about insects at Arboretum Days 2006.

Louisiana Tech's gain will be Auburn's loss when Christi Bufford Francis leaves this fall to join her husband John in his new position there. Her tenure as curator of the Donald E. Davis Arboretum on the Auburn University campus has been one of dedication, hard work and unbridled imagination. For those attributes and the changes they have inspired, the Auburn Beatification Council presents her its "Pat on the Back" Award.

The Arboretum has seen many changes under Francis' leadership. The formerly murky pond has been dredged, cleaned and refilled. Other changes include a new pier and teaching surface. There are new pervious paths, designed to prevent runoff, and a rain garden exhibit, which prevents rain from rushing downhill into sensitive areas such as the pond. The rain garden features the Cahaba lily, which is found only in Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina. It requires moving water and sunlight, both of which are provided in the rain garden.

"Arboretum Days," an open house designed especially for children and held prior to Auburn University's home football games, is very popular. A free pre-game nature experience, it begins at 8:30 a.m. and lasts approximately one hour. A different topic is covered each week as students learn about insects, wildlife and the trees and plants that inhabit the 13-acre gardens.

Francis found a unique way to celebrate Earth Day. Beginning in 2005, she scheduled music on the grounds, provided educational displays, food and dozens of native plants in bloom. Entry fee? A rock! "Shipping rocks is expensive," explains Francis, "and after two years, we now have stone walls and rock-lined walkways. It's been a great success."
Francis' dedication, imagination and love for her job have been evident to those who regularly visit the Arboretum. She will no doubt take those attributes with her, and some other lucky community will be the beneficiary, since it appears she is compelled to do what she does best.

Citizens wishing to nominate others for Loveliest Village Awards may obtain a nomination form at wwwauburnbeautification.org or by calling 821-9666.