Memebership Terms
Plants Above Treeline Association
Last updated: 9 November 2026
1. About PAT Association
Plants Above Treeline Association (PAT Association) is an international, non-profit association dedicated to the study, cultivation, conservation and appreciation of alpine plants and their natural habitats.
The association promotes the exchange of knowledge, experiences and ideas among alpine plant enthusiasts worldwide.
PAT Association operates independently of PAT Nursery & Services, which is a separate commercial enterprise.
2. Membership and Registration
Membership is open to individuals who share an interest in alpine plants and support the aims of PAT Association.
By registering, members agree to provide accurate contact information and to comply with these Membership Terms and the association's bylaws.
Membership begins when registration has been confirmed.
3. Membership Fees and Duration
Membership is currently free of charge.
Membership continues until the member chooses to resign or the membership is otherwise terminated in accordance with the association's bylaws. No annual renewal is required.
PAT Association may introduce additional paid membership categories in the future, such as Full Membership or Supporting Membership.
Existing free memberships will not automatically become paid memberships. Any upgrade to a paid membership category requires the member's active choice and acceptance of the applicable payment terms.
4. Membership Benefits
Members of PAT Association with a free membership are entitled to a 15% discount on plants and seeds purchased from PAT Nursery & Services, subject to any specific conditions applicable to the relevant purchase or offer.
PAT Association may introduce additional membership categories, including paid membership options. Such membership categories may include additional benefits, services, content, discounts, access or participation opportunities.
The introduction of additional membership categories will not, in itself, reduce or remove the benefits already provided under the free membership. The specific benefits associated with each membership category may be determined and amended by PAT Association from time to time.
5. Activities and Participation
Members may participate in PAT Association's activities, including its online community, educational initiatives and botanical excursions, where available.
Certain activities, including Joint Botanical Tours, may require separate registration, participation fees or specific eligibility conditions.
Membership does not automatically guarantee participation in activities with limited availability.
6. Member Conduct
Members are expected to treat others with respect and contribute positively to the association's activities and community.
Members must respect applicable laws and regulations relating to plant conservation, collection, exchange and international trade.
Serious violations of these Membership Terms or the association's bylaws may result in suspension or termination of membership in accordance with the bylaws.
7. Resignation
Members may resign from PAT Association at any time, without charge, by contacting the association.
Resignation does not automatically cancel any separate bookings, purchases or agreements made with PAT Nursery & Services or other service providers.
8. Personal Information and Communications
PAT Association processes personal information necessary to administer membership and related activities, as described in its Privacy Notice.
Members may separately choose to receive news and updates from PAT Association or commercial communications from PAT Nursery & Services.
These subscriptions are voluntary and can be cancelled at any time without affecting membership.
Personal information provided for membership administration will not automatically be used for commercial marketing by PAT Nursery & Services.
9. Changes to Membership Terms
PAT Association may update these Membership Terms when necessary. Significant changes will be communicated to members.
The association's bylaws govern formal membership rights and organisational matters. In the event of a conflict between these Membership Terms and the bylaws, the bylaws take precedence.
For questions concerning membership, please contact PAT Association through the website's contact page.