Michigan State University’s W.J. Beal Botanical Garden is officially internationally recognized.

The garden recently earned accreditation from Botanic Gardens Conservation International, or BCGI, a UK-based membership organization representing botanic gardens in more than 100 countries around the world with the goal of linking the gardens together in a global network for plant conservation.

With BGCI accreditation, Beal Botanical Garden joins an accomplished group of just over 100 international botanical gardens that have demonstrated success in conservation of plant species, inspiring people, sharing knowledge and addressing global challenges. Beal Botanical Garden is the first and only BGCI-accredited garden in Michigan. The BCGI recognition marks the first time the botanical garden has earned accreditation in its 152-year history.

“MSU is home to world-class cultural institutions with collections that serve as vital infrastructure for research, teaching and public engagement,” said Judith Stoddart, vice provost for University Arts and Collections. “This prestigious international recognition underlines the ways that the Beal Botanical Garden team continues to innovate and reimagine its historic mission as a living laboratory for campus and community.”