The Arboretum has glades, karst windows (caves), limestone formations, woodlands, wetlands, springs, forests, pastures, and savannas.  As well as a rich diversity of wildlife and plants.

In 1978, Dick and Ellen Chiles bought Rockspan farm to raise cattle, trees, a garden, and grandchildren.  For many decades, out of a deep love of learning, nature, and community, they encouraged school groups, researchers, indigenous groups, and community groups to “come on out to the farm” to learn and connect with nature.

Since Dick and Ellen’s passing in 2015 and 2017, their family has grown this vision for the land and our community.  For the last decade, they’ve partnered with Springfield Public Schools, Missouri State University, Drury University, Missouri Department of Conservation, the NRCS, and countless community groups and wise teachers.

In 2026, the Chiles family started the Sac River Arboretum, a 501(c)3, to expand and develop the mission of connecting people and the land through partnerships with schools, folkschool courses, community visits, regenerative agriculture research, and ecological development.

We are so thankful for the support and wisdom of those who have lived on this land before us, from the people of the Clovis culture 10,000 years ago, to the Osage nation, the European settlers, and all those who have since walked this farm.

And we are thankful for you who now share in this vision of connecting with the land and each other.

Welcome!