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Cultivating connections with nature

Since 1987, we've been a sanctuary for native ecosystems and a place for people to find peace, wonder, and knowledge in the heart of the city.

our purpose

Preserve, Educate, Inspire

Botanical Garden is more than a collection of plants – we're a living laboratory and a refuge for both wildlife and weary souls. Our mission is to protect biodiversity, offer environmental education, and foster a deep appreciation for the natural world.

We believe that when people connect with nature, they become its stewards. Every gallery, every program, and every conserved acre reflects this commitment.

80 acres
16 habitats
40k+ visitors/yr
roots & growth

Our story

From a small community garden to a renowned botanical preserve.

1987

Founding vision

A group of local naturalists and volunteers transform a neglected city lot into the first community garden, planting 50 native trees.

1995

Wetland restoration

Heron Wetland is restored, bringing back native aquatic plants and attracting great blue herons for the first time in decades.

2004

Education center opens

The Botanical Center opens, offering year-round classes, school field trips, and a native plant nursery.

2023

80 acres preserved

With community support, we expand to 80 contiguous acres, protecting critical habitat for over 200 species.

People behind the petals

Meet our naturalists

Dedicated staff and volunteers who care for this land every day.

Druv Vikram

executive director

Botanist with 20 years experience in habitat restoration and community engagement.

Alex Pandiyan

head naturalist

Wildlife ecologist who leads bird walks and wetland monitoring programs.

Dr. Priya Singh

conservation scientist

Studies native pollinators and leads prairie restoration efforts.

James Bond

volunteer coordinator

Connects community with hands-on conservation projects.

grateful collaborations

Our partners

Working together to protect and nurture our green spaces.

partner logo
nature conservancy
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audubon society
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native plant trust
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city parks foundation
accolades

Recognized for excellence

Botanical garden of excellence

American Public Gardens Association

2025

Wetland conservation
award

National Wildlife Federation

2023

Community engagement leader

City Environmental Council

2024
our promise

Conservation in action

Every day we work to restore, protect, and study our native ecosystems.

Water stewardship

Rainwater harvesting, native plant buffers, and wetland monitoring preserve water quality.

Pollinator pathways

We maintain pesticide-free corridors for bees, butterflies, and other essential insects.

Native plant nursery

Growing 50+ local species for restoration projects and community gardens.

Citizen science

Volunteers help monitor bird populations, water quality, and plant phenology.