A Tribute to Lois Wythe

Sandpoint's native plant arboretum has become a true regional treasure, a place to go for an introduction native plants and for quiet contemplation.    But, because the trees, plants and serene setting take center stage, it’s easy to forget the dedication and hours of toil that have gone on behind the scenes to make this wonderful place possible.  Let’s take a moment to recognize Lois Wythe and the original team of  “straw bosses” she recruited for all their efforts in creating and maintaining this special place.

Lois’s dream for an Arboretum moved toward reality in the mid 1990's with her impassioned plea for others to join her in "signing away one summer morning per week for the rest of their lives.”   This produced 12 dedicated volunteers.   Through hard work and sheer force of will they endured the trials of selecting and acquiring a site, planning and coordinating all the details, and soliciting both community support as well as sponsorship.  With the bureaucracy behind them they set about creating, maintaining and continually improving a place where native plants, and our appreciation of them, can flourish.  Their never-ending work continues to this day. 

Their work quickly grew into creating the Kinnikinnick Chapter of the Idaho Native Plant Society.  Most of these individuals are still giving heart and soul every week to the arboretum, testimony to the loyalty and commitment that Lois inspires.  Many more carry on other chapter work including local landscaping projects and conservation work.  We thank all these many volunteers for their dedication and perseverance.

The legacy of Lois’s dream, drive and passion will be the continued growth and strength of the arboretum, the Kinnikinnick Chapter and the Idaho Native Plant Society.  The dedication and ongoing efforts carried out by Lois continue to inspire new volunteers and bring about improvements to the arboretum and the society.  We salute Lois and support the fulfillment of her vision!