Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, has named Rosie Anderson as its new Tree Conservation Manager.
Having already spent the last three years at Westonbirt as a Dendrologist, Rosie’s promotion marks a significant step both for her personal journey and for the Arboretum’s ambitious conservation plans. Her deep-rooted expertise and unwavering commitment to tree preservation have made her a standout choice for the role, which is being funded by the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum – the charitable group dedicated to supporting this treasured local and national landmark.
Rosie will now lead on a variety of critical conservation projects, including Westonbirt’s continued work heading up the Global Conservation Consortium for Whitebeams, Rowans and Service Trees – a collection of species that includes several UK natives under threat.
Her new role will also see her working closely with partners across the world on seed collecting expeditions and botanic collaborations to help protect species most at risk.
“I’m delighted to take on this role,” Rosie shared. “Having gained valuable experience here as a Dendrologist, I’m looking forward to building on our work and helping strengthen the conservation impact we can have both here in the UK and further afield.”
Andrew Smith, Director of Westonbirt Arboretum, hailed the appointment as a timely boost to the organisation’s ambitions: “Rosie’s knowledge and drive make her perfectly placed to lead on this. Her appointment is an exciting moment for Westonbirt and the wider conservation community. We’re also incredibly grateful to the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum, whose ongoing support helps us continue our mission.”
Rosie will now work under the guidance of Arboretum Curator Dan Crowley, as the team drives forward Westonbirt’s vision of becoming a global leader in tree conservation.
Set in the Cotswolds, Westonbirt Arboretum is home to over 2,500 species of trees and shrubs from around the world. This latest appointment underlines its importance not just as a visitor attraction, but as a powerhouse of conservation, research, and international collaboration.
For those wanting to learn more about the work of the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum, visit the website here.
