Carleton’s Cowling Arboretum contains 800 acres of prairie, forest, and river habitat. It was established by Donald J. Cowling and Harvey E. Stork in the 1920s for education, conservation, and recreation.

Arboretum Faculty & Staff

Arboretum Director | Arboretum Staff | Arboretum Grounds Supervisor |

Arboretum Director

Photo of Nancy Braker
Nancy Braker ’81 Bio
Puzak Family Director of the Cowling Arboretum
Instructor in Physical Education, Athletics, and Recreation
Senior Lecturer in Biology
Office: Arb Office 122
Phone: 507 222 4543

Arboretum Staff

Photo of Matthew Elbert
Matthew Elbert
Manager of Cowling Arboretum
Office: Arb Office 118
Phone: 507 222 5413
Photo of Lisa Falconer
Lisa Falconer
Assistant to the Office of Development and Alumni Relations
Office: Laird Hall 006
Phone: 507 222 4335
Photo of Mark McKone
Mark McKone Bio
Towsley Professor of Biology & Research Supervisor of Cowling Arboretum
Off Campus: Fall 2026
Office: Olin Hall 201A
Phone: 507 222 4393

Arboretum Grounds Supervisor

Photo of Adam Donkers
Adam Donkers
Grounds Worker Lead
Office: Grounds Garage/Warehouse 100
Phone: 507 222 4133