“Botanist, ecological restorationist, farmer” – Dr. John Ambrose has dedicated his life advocating for trees, embodying the spirit and letter of the Henry Kock Tree Stewardship award. Dr. Ambrose came to Guelph in the 1970s as the first curator of the newly created Arboretum. He oversaw a time of growth, implementing the master plan for collections. Most significantly he established the conservation gene bank program, with Cucumber Tree (Magnolia acuminata) planted in the area we now call the World of Trees. He connected locally, regionally, and globally, contributing extra Hop trees (Ptelea trifoliata) from research projects to Guelph’s growing city parks, and seed to Kew Gardens after a storm. Later, he spent many years as Curator of Botany and Manager of Horticulture at the Toronto Zoo. He generously contributes his passion and knowledge to organizations and individuals working to protect and preserve trees. He has written or contributed to many Ontario species at risk recovery strategies and ensured Henry Kock’s book, “Growing Trees from Seed: A Practical Guide to Growing Native Trees, Vines and Shrubs,” was published posthumously. He has served on many boards, organizations, and committees across the province and the country, including GUFF and the Forest Gene Conservation Association. He continues to advocate for the rare species found on Pelee Island, most recently as part of continuing efforts of the red mulberry recovery group.
