Return to flip book view

A PUBLICATION FROM WATERFRONT BOTANICAL GARDENSSPRING 2024IN BLOOM

It is hard to believe that I am nearly six months into my role as President & CEO of Waterfront Botanical Gardens. In this relatively short span, we have experienced a flurry of activity, and I’m thrilled by our current trajectory. As a young, entrepreneurial nonprofit, the Gardens have and will continue to experience periods of rapid growth, in tandem with time for reflection and thoughtful consideration of our next steps forward. This is an exciting time, and I am grateful to be a part of it.As we enter the Gardens’ fifth growing season, a very significant achievement is the completion of Phase 1 of our Master Plan, a milestone we celebrate with great pride. The Graeser Family Education Center, Ellen T. Leslie Botanical Classrooms, Beargrass Creek Pathway, and the Rounsavall Family Foundation Plaza Fountain now stand as integral components of our beautifully designed Garden plazas.Looking ahead, our sights are set on the start of Phase 2, encompassing the Japanese Garden, the Tree Allée, and the Beargrass Creek Overlook. Japanese Garden construction will begin with the Bonsai House and Graeser Family Bonsai Garden, which will allow us to properly house and display our growing collection of over three dozen bonsai trees.In a recent and incredibly exciting development, I am thrilled to announce that Waterfront Botanical Gardens will receive $4 million from the Commonwealth of Kentucky. This generous allocation underscores the confidence our elected ocials have in our Garden’s vibrant future as a landmark for education, conservation, and tourism.Over the years, we’ve often invoked the phrase “From Landfill to Landmark,” yet our Director of Horticulture, Andrew Hagerty, rightfully improved this tagline when he said, “We are more than a landmark, we are a LIVING landmark.” This subtle shift in perception underscores our commitment to nurturing and sustaining this living legacy for years to come.Embracing the theme of Forever Green for 2024, we aim to infuse this idea into our programs, events, and operational ethos, cultivating not only a garden but a legacy of environmental stewardship and community enrichment that will endure for generations.There are many ways you can be a part of our growth and support this necessary green space in Louisville’s urban environment. Attend a program, sponsor an event, make a donation, become a Member, or consider adding the Gardens to your estate plans. Every level of support plays a vital role in nurturing our growth and ensuring the sustainability of your urban Gardens, an invaluable community asset.Sincerely,Philip KoesterPresident & CEOOUR VISIONPlanting seeds and growing minds for more sustainable cities. A LETTER FROM OUR PRESIDENTPhil speaks to a sold-out audience at the Gardens’ 3rd annual Fascinator AairSTAFFPhilip Koester President& CEOMegan Bibelhauser Director of Marketing & CommunicationsAndrew Hagerty Director of HorticultureJen O’Connell Director of EventsWanda Peck Director of EducationLori Kay Scott Director of DevelopmentDaniel Cash Facilities ManagerDuncan Cherry Marketing & Media ManagerDrew Combs Horticulture ManagerAmy DeFigueiredo Accounting ManagerRosie Devine Development Administrative ManagerAbby Fleming Special Events CoordinatorJordyn Fowler Special Events CoordinatorHaley Justice Human Resources and Administrative ManagerMary Miller Grant Writer Alivia Ryan Horticulture SpecialistMolly Young Volunteer & Memberships ManagerAudrey Brown Horticulture InternCam Carroll Seasonal GardenerAlastair Flowers Seasonal GardenerAlex Goldsmith Horticulture InternOFFICERS OF THE BOARDMargaret Bell Chair Retired, Former Managing Director, Fort Washington Investment Advisors

GARDENS AGLIMMER ATTENDANCE SURPASSES 10,000In 2023, we welcomed 10,629 guests to Gardens Aglimmer - our highest attendance yet! A special thank you to presenting sponsor Baird Private Wealth Management, as well as Louisville Public Media, KPFF Consulting Engineers, Brown-Forman, Perkins&Will, Calhoun Construction Services, and Khalil Batshon. Save the date! Mark your calendars for Gardens Aglimmer 2024 opening night, Friday, November 29, 2024. For additional 2024 dates and details, visit gardensaglimmer.com.COVER FLORAFront: Stonecrop Sedum (Hylotelephium spectabile ‘Neon’)Back: MerlinTM Lenten Rose (Helleborus x ballardiae ‘COSEH 810’). Photos by Duncan CherryWELCOME NEW BOARD MEMBERSGARDENS AGLIMMER RECAPScan the QR code to view a fly-through video of our 2023 light display. Courtesy of Steve Grider Photography.Sally GrayCommunity Leader and VolunteerMary Gwynne DoughertyHuman Resource Consulting Manager, Marsh McLennanKristen WebbOwner and Attorney, KWH Law, PLLCMatthew RutherfordSelf-employedJoe GravissFormer Kentucky State Representative, District 56Nancy Davis Vice Chair Retired, Former CFO Stock Yards Bank & TrustWill Greene Secretary Owner, Vanguard Cleaning Systems of LouisvilleBen Ruley Treasurer Vice-President of Financial Planning Analysis, Tri-Arrows AluminumBOARD OF DIRECTORS Frank (Tré) Campisano Executive Director of Sales at Globalair.comDavid Carpenter President/CEO, Japan/America Society of KentuckyKaren Dahlem President, Dahlem ConsultingMary Gwynne Dougherty Human Resource Consulting Manager, Marsh McLennanKevin Fennell Architect, Calhoun ConstructionMatthew Boone Gardiner Owner & President, Boone Gardiner Landscape and FarmDavid Graeser Retired, President, Bohnert Equipment Co., Inc.Joe Graviss Former Kentucky State Representative, District 56 Sally Gray Community Leader and VolunteerDavid Grey Senior Machine Learning Data Scientist, OptumKathy Oyler Community Leader and VolunteerMatthew Rutherford Self-employedChase Sanders Senior Investor Relations Analyst, Brown-FormanFrances Scholtz Community Leader and VolunteerBen Simmons Associate & Client Liaison, Schmidt AssociatesClay Stinnett CFO, EVP, Stock Yards Bank & TrustKristen Webb Owner and Attorney, KWH Law, PLLCMac Willett Owner, R. M. Willett Properties and Willett Lumber Co.Frank (Tre) CampisanoExecutive Director of Sales at Globalair.com´

In our ever-changing world, Waterfront Botanical Gardens provides a calming sanctuary for rest and reflection. Here, green reigns supreme; a welcome contrast to the urban hustle and bustle beyond our 23-acre site. To honor the timeless wonder and allure of the Gardens, we are embracing the theme of Forever Green in 2024. As a living archive of nature’s beauty, the Gardens preserve and showcase native and exotic plant life, immersing visitors in the art and science of the natural world. From the beginning, Waterfront Botanical Gardens has been on a mission to bring nature to the city by taking a lifeless landfill and cultivating a living landmark. With Phase 1 of our Master Plan complete, including green buildings, geothermal systems, and various gardens and plantings, we are excited for Phase 2, which will feature the Japanese Garden starting with the Bonsai House, Graeser Family Bonsai Garden, Tree Allée, and Beargrass Creek Overlook. Looking ahead, the possibilities for new programming are abundant. After all, programs and events are im-portant vehicles for sharing our mission with the community. In the meantime, we are actively looking at what we oer, how we can provide greater opportunities and experiences to engage our guests, infuse more fun, all while eciently and eectively meeting our mission. We have plenty of ideas!YOUTH PROGRAMS & EVENTS Waterfront Botanical Gardens oers programs for school groups, scouts, preschool, homeschool, and families. Engaging our youngest guests and their families is a special opportunity to cultivate a lifelong love for nature. We are excited for our 2nd annual Kaleidoscope Family Festival on September 14, 2024. This free day of family-friendly fun will look at the world through the lens of plants! Learn more at waterfrontgardens.org/kaleidoscope.NEW LEARNING GARDENA new Learning Garden is in development and will be ready this summer. This versatile outdoor space includes a 20’ x 30’ tent, electricity, landscaping, and large raised plant beds to accompany our educator-led programs. The soil-filled beds will allow children to plant seedlings, sow seeds, and get their hands dirty. This space will also be available for event rentals.Forever Green Transforming the Gardens' Programs

Rendering of theLearning GardenADULT CLASSESAND WORKSHOPSWe have oered greatclasses in the past and welook forward to providingmany of those along withsome new ones. Fan favoriteslike our Gardens Walk & Talk led byWBG horticulture sta will take placeevery other Thursday starting May 30th. Visitwaterfrontgardens.org/AdultEd to learn more.SAVE THE DATE! FOREVER GREEN GALAThe Gardens have established several key annualevents including the Fascinator Aair, Earth Day,Kaleidoscope Family Festival, Bonsai Weekend,the annual gala, and Gardens Aglimmer. This year,the annual gala will follow our theme of ForeverGreen - green tie optional! Save the date for Friday, November 22, 2024. More information to come at waterfrontgardens.org/gala.We are excited for the future atWaterfront Botanical Gardens,where we are reminded of theenduring power of nature to inspire,educate, and connect. Join us inembracing our Forever Green theme,and come have fun in your Gardens for an upcoming program or event!Support the Gardens and receive a Kentucky income tax credit. The EndowKentucky Tax Credit allows donors to receive a charitable deduction and also a credit against your Kentucky income taxes. The credit is 20% of your gift, up to $10,000. This means an individual can give up to $50,000, allowingfor a $10,000 tax credit. Gifts must be directed to the Waterfront Botanical Gardens’ Fund at the Community Foundation of Louisville. Individuals must apply for the credit before making their gift.Endow Kentucky Tax CreditTo learn more, contact Lori KayScott, Director of Development atlkscott@waterfrontgardens.org or 502-609-3580  Scan the QR code to learnmore about the Endow Kentucky Tax Credit.

Mac and Catherine at the3rd Annual Fascinator Aairwith bugler Phil ThomasAt any budding nonprofit, there areearly mission advocates who growinto the most devoted supporters,leading by example and showing upin the most crucial ways. At WaterfrontBotanical Gardens, we are honored by this level of commitment from Mac andCatherine Willett. Neighbors to the Gardens and residents of Butchertown since 2003, Mac andCatherine learned about the Gardens while it wasstill in its infancy. Just four years earlier, Botanicamember Helen Harrigan passed away, leavingbehind a $1.5 million trust to build a botanicalgarden and conservatory in Louisville.“We became very involved in the neighborhood,”said Mac, “and after the Gardens received theland from the city, we wanted to become moreengaged. We started o by becoming WBGMembers so we could follow along with theprogress. Over the years, our support has grown.” Mac’s early connection to the  Gardens wasn’t just by proximity,it included family ties as well. “Mymother’s sister, Mary Webb, wasa landscape architect and she wasinvolved in developing the Gardens foryears. I knew all about it through her. Infact, there is a bench named in her honor atthe Gardens, and the bridge on the Beargrass CreekPathway is named in her daughter-in-law’s memory.”Mac and Catherine are well aware of the valueof botanical gardens in most cities, and that theyare typically among the top five most visitedattractions. Understanding that the Gardens could become a unique and valuable asset to Louisvilleand the region, they became more proactive in their relationship with the Gardens. Mac said, “Theformer Chairperson of the Board, Jon Salomon,lived across the street from us. I called him up andsaid, ‘John, it’s time for me to give back a little.I would love to be on your Board’.” The rest ishistory, so to speak.SAVE THE DATE! The 4th annual Fascinator Aair is Thursday, April 10, 2025.Scan the QR code to watch a recap video of the 3rd annual Fascinator Aair. Or get more information at  waterfrontgardens.org/fascinatorMembers of the Helen Harrigan Legacy Society help the Gardens cultivate a legacy that will continue to bloom for generations. When you include Waterfront Botanical Gardens in your estate plans, you become a member of the Helen Harrigan Legacy Society. Planned gift givingenables you to show your generosity and dedication to our community and the environment,without compromising your present-day financial comfort.To learn more about planned giving and the Helen Harrigan Legacy Society, or if you havealready included the Gardens in your plans, please contact Lori Kay Scott, Director ofDevelopment, at lkscott@waterfrontgardens.org | 502-609-3580

Mac and Catherine at the Gardens’ Japanese Gala in October 2022Seeds of Support Recognizing Mac and Catherine WillettMac has served on the Gardens’ Board of Directors since 2021. In that time, he has also participated in numerous committees, with a primary focus on resource development. Whether hosting gatherings at their homes in Louisville and Florida, introducing friends to the Gardens, or writing thank you letters to supporters, Mac and Catherine model support for the Gardens in countless ways. Their engagement extends beyond Kentucky, and also involves neighbors who spend part of their year in Florida. Between lunches, parties, and casual conversations, the Willetts are cultivating relationships and interest in the Gardens even from afar.In 2023, the Willetts became the Presenting Sponsors of the 2nd Annual Fascinator Aair, a Derby season luncheon and fashion show fundraiser in support of the Gardens’ mission. After the success of the event, they were eager to reclaim the title of Presenting Sponsor of the 3rd Annual Fascinator Aair in 2024. “Catherine loves this event,” said Mac, “and it is a wonderful way for us to introduce people to the Gardens in a fun, social setting.” After a sold-out event this year, they are already looking forward to the 4th Annual Fascinator Aair scheduled for April 10, 2025.In the future, the Willetts hope their legacy of support for the Gardens will continue to grow for generations to come. As members of the Helen Harrigan Legacy Society, Mac and Catherine have included Waterfront Botanical Gardens in their estate plans. Mac said, “We have been so committed during our lifetime, that when we are gone from here, I hope that our contribution will help sustain the Gardens into the future.” Mac also shared that supporting the Gardens’ endowment fund is a top priority to ensure the longevity of this public asset. The Japanese Garden is high on the list of things that Mac and Catherine are looking forward to at Waterfront Botanical Gardens. As the son of a World War II veteran, Mac believes his father would be thrilled to know of this vision for the Gardens. “I see the Japanese Garden as a symbol. It is a symbol of Japanese and American friendship. Visitors are going to put this on their ‘must see’ list when they are in Kentucky, and to me, that would be the greatest thing.”With visionaries and advocates like Mac and Catherine Willett, the future of Waterfront Botanical Gardens is bright. They demonstrate the many ways one can support the Gardens’ mission, whether through annual membership, volunteering, making introductions, event sponsorship, and legacy giving. “At the end of the day, we want to see the Gardens be successful,” said Mac. “We are proud to be a part of this legacy.”

Bonsai appreciation extends beyond viewing them as living sculptures. They represent devoted craftsmanship, guided by art and horticulture, manifested in breathtaking masterpieces. Bonsai are illustrations of history, understanding, and appreciation, serving as symbols of hope and preservation of peace; faith that the time and care given will be continued by each coming generation. It is easy to understand why deep connections are formed with bonsai, because the practices needed to cultivate bonsai mirror philosophies for leading a fulfilling life. As far back as 700 AD when the Chinese began practicing penjing, the early beginnings of bonsai, these plants were revered as luxurious gifts and meditated upon for their magical qualities. Caring for a bonsai is an opportunity to be present, to quiet distractions, and connect with nature. It is a chance to contemplate a tree’s form and encourage it to reach its full potential. A chance to be patient in waiting and adapt to unexpected challenges; to amend any damage done, or revere the scars as a part of its journey. There are many techniques, philosophies, and styles to choose from when growing bonsai, and some core principles have been used for thousands of years. Leave No Trace: It is important that an artist leaves no trace of their work. The tree should appear as if it naturally grew into its shape with no visible, obvious signs of pruning or wiring. Balance: Another requirement is that the tree’s roots, trunk, foliage, and branches need to be balanced. Even the negative space between the dierent parts of the tree should not attract too much attention. Proportion: It is important to ensure that the tree is proportioned to resemble a full-grown tree. For instance, a bonsai’s branches should not dwarf the trunk or have leaves that are too large for the size of the tree. Though some are easier to transform than others, enough skill and eort can turn any woody plant species into a bonsai, allowing for an abundance of diversity in these miniaturized trees. Bonsai can be conifers, deciduous, or tropical species bearing fruit or pine cones, or azaleas or wisteria covered in a display of flowers. No matter the type of plant, each bonsai tells a unique story. Some are newly planted by novice bonsai artists, while others tell tales of generational dedication and hold the memories of their caretakers. Some have been passed down from one keeper to another for hundreds of years. The oldest bonsai is estimated to be over 1,000 years old. Bonsai can enjoy long lifespans thanks to their caretakers’ meticulous attention. Fertilizers are carefully measured and applied, special soils are crafted for their roots, watering is precise, and any disease or pest is treated quickly. The painstaking eort to cultivate these horticultural works of art is just one aspect of the creator’s gratification. A 41-year-old Satsuki Azalea Rhododendron cv.Why Bonsai?Andrew HagertyDirector of Horticulture

Waterfront Botanical Gardens’ bonsai collection continues to grow thanks to generous donors. The trees given to the Gardens are there to be appreciated by our community and to inspire others to learn about the delights of bonsai. Our budding collection currently consists of 36 trees and 18 dierent species. As the stewards of such valuable gifts, we are happy to announce our bonsai collection will be on display for the public to view in the Samtec Cares Courtyard adjacent to the Ellen T. Leslie Botanical Classrooms. A sincere thank you to Cosentino, Artesian Stone, Jim Doiron, and the Greater Louisville Bonsai Society whose donated time and material made this display possible.In addition to the new bonsai display, we also look forward to our second annual Bonsai Weekend in partnership with the Greater Louisville Bonsai Society from August 23 - 25, 2024. This event will once again celebrate the work of our region’s bonsai communities. With over 2,000 attendees at the inaugural event, this year will be even more festive and will include vendors to provide for all your bonsai needs, Asian-inspired cuisine, performers, as well workshops and demonstrations on caring for and creating your own bonsai. As we continue to share the great features of bon-sai, we eagerly await the first addition to Phase Two of the Gardens’ Master Plan: the Bonsai House and Graeser Family Bonsai Garden. The Garden will consist of five dierent “rooms,” each of which is inspired by the Japanese philosophy godai, or “The Five Great,” referring to the elements earth, water, fire, wind, and void. From the materials used to create each space, to the plants inhabiting them, each room in the Bonsai Garden will be influenced by one of the elements. Waterfront Botanical Gardens is fortunate to have the encouragement of so many dierent people eager to share their love of bonsai. Their dedication goes beyond their trees, as they help the Gardens and support our eorts in their display, plan our growing annual event, and embark upon our next phase of construction. This opportunity also gives us the chance to emulate the lessons learned from the bonsai under our care. The dedication and eort required to develop and care for a centuries-old bonsai is the same commitment we bring in transforming a landfill into a living landmark appreciated by generations to come.Bonsai Weekend 2023Save the Date! The 2nd Annual Bonsai Weekend featuring the Greater Louisville Bonsai Society is August 23 - 25, 2024 For details and tickets, scan the QR code or visit waterfrontgardens.org/bonsai

There is a quiet transformation underway in Louisville, led by nonprofits like Waterfront Botanical Gardens and TreesLouisville, who are finding ways to bring nature into the urban environment and improve quality of life for residents of Jeerson County.Cindi Sullivan, a horticulturist and certified arborist with a green thumb and a heart for trees, wears many hats as the President and Executive Director of TreesLouisville. She has embraced this role since TreesLouisville’s inception in 2015. Today, there are six employees and approximately 30 active volunteers operating under four core pillars: education, advocacy, collaboration, and funding projects in low canopy neighborhoods.TreesLouisville was established at the recommendation of the Louisville Metro Tree Advisory Commission. After performing a tree canopy assessment spanning 2004 to 2012, their findings were stark: Louisville’s tree canopy was shrinking, with only 38% coverage recorded in that time frame.“West and south Louisville have the lowest tree canopy. These neighborhoods have been historically marginalized, and are currently underserved. Tree maintenance can be very expensive, so homeowners don’t want to plant new trees,” said Cindi. TreesLouisville now helps to fund projects in these areas through philanthropy, partnerships, and grants.TreesLouisville performed a second assessment from 2012 to 2019 and recorded a 1% increase in canopy coverage, pushing the needle to 39%. It may sound like a modest gain, but the original assessment also found that without active changes, the tree canopy would dip below 30% by 2025. With their sights set on a goal of 45% coverage, every percentage point counts.GROWING A GREENER FUTURE WITH TREESLOUISVILLEMegan BibelhauserDirector of Marketing & CommunicationsIn the northwestern corner of the Gardens’ parking lot lies a makeshift compost research station managed by Ryan Lewis, owner of City Tilth and Trees. While it appears as just a collection of mulch and dirt to the casual observer, Ryan’s methods are both varied and intentional on his quest to perfect compost production.Ryan’s journey began over two decades ago in tree work, primarily focused on removal and risk mitigation rather than tree health. However, frustration and a growing curiosity led him to delve deeper into arboriculture, focusing on the pivotal role of soil in tree health. He shared, “The textbook understanding that anyone studying arboriculture would acknowledge, is that 9 out of 10 tree problems originate below ground. One would think that 90% of our work is addressing soil problems. Actually, it is probably less than 1%.”Upon becoming the City Forester for Audubon Park, known for their annual Dogwood Festival, Ryan faced a challenge as the dogwoods were declining rapidly. “About three years ago, I suggested the dogwoods were being lost, both the young and the mature, and they may be left with a spring flower festival, because the dogwoods weren’t going to survive.” Tackling the challenge head on by adopting a holistic approach, he emphasized overall tree health rather than merely treating symptoms with harsh chemicals. By developing a more robust soil ecology and minimizing stressors, the city has eectively halted tree attrition, and the trees’ health is rebounding.

“The biggest barrier for tree canopy improvement is the lack of awareness of its value,” said Cindi. “A robust tree canopy provides real environmental, economic, social, and human health value.”Waterfront Botanical Gardens has been connected with TreesLouisville from the beginning. Within the first weeks of Cindi’s appointment as Executive Director, she reached out to the Gardens team to find ways to collaborate. The first project, a tree planting made possible by a grant from CSX, allowed the Gardens to plant 90 trees along a steep hillside behind the Graeser Family Education Center.Most recently, funding and volunteers from Angel’s Envy enabled TreesLouisville to donate and plant 48 trees in the Gardens’ newly completed overflow parking lot in fall 2023. “This is not something one organization can do alone. We have to have partners,” shared Cindi. Teaming up with mission-aligned organizations like Louisville Metro Urban Forestry and Waterfront Botanical Gardens, TreesLouisville is transforming Louisville’s urban landscape one tree at a time. From securing grant funding for tree maintenance in underserved areas, to hosting community events that inspire the next generation of tree enthusiasts, their impact is felt far and wide.In Louisville’s urban environment, organizations like TreesLouisville and Waterfront Botanical Gardens are here to remind everyone that with a little care and a lot of heart, we can all play a part in growing a brighter, greener future for generations to come. NURTURING ROOTS: THE ART AND SCIENCE OF URBAN COMPOSTING WITH RYAN LEWISTo learn more, Contact Ryan at rklewistrees@gmail.comVisit treeslouisville.org to learn more. The compost station bordering the Gardens’ parking lot, initiated in October 2023, marks an important era in Ryan’s journey. By partnering with the Gardens, he receives access to much-needed space and spent plant materials for testing his process, while also providing the Gardens with highly nutritious compost for our soil.Ryan’s composting endeavors are multifaceted, with each mound of organic matter subject to unique variables. His goal is to identify the most eective practices and scale them up for broader impact. Beyond compost production, Ryan aims to cultivate a community of soil health advocates to reform landscaping practices across the metro area. “I can’t change soils in all of Louisville, but there are a lot of companies that could. I want to be a part of that.” Sharing resources with values-aligned innovators like Ryan is one way Waterfront Botanical Gardens is advancing our mission. Through education and collaboration, we can inspire broader changes, fostering a sustainable future for Louisville’s urban environment and our neighbors who live here. Ryan measures the internal temperature of a compost pileVolunteers assist with tree planting at Waterfront Botanical Gardens’ overflow parking lot

2023 KALEIDOSCOPE FAMILY FESTIVAL THROUGH THE LENS OF PLANTSTHE VITAL ROLE OF VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP AT WATERFRONT BOTANICAL GARDENSOn September 16, 2023, the Gardens buzzed with activity as over 2,000 visitors journeyed into the vibrant world of plants. The 2023 Kaleidoscope Family Festival, formerly known as ReGeneration Fair, was a free, family-friendly celebration of all things plant-related. The event was named for the standalone kaleidoscopes found throughout the Gardens plaza, courtesy of our presenting sponsors Darla Bailey and Liz Sneed. These kaleidoscopes aren’t just for show; they symbolize the kaleidoscopic beauty and diversity of the botanical world.As guests strolled through the Gardens, they were surrounded by an array of vendors sharing the secrets of their products’ botanical origins. From delicious snow cones infused with real fruit purees to face-painting creations using plant-based paints, every experience was a testament to the incredible versatility of plants.Visitors were also able to interact with many of the Gardens’ community partners. The Jeerson County Master Gardeners Association, TreesLouisville, Louisville Water Company, Wright Brothers Honey, and the Louisville Folk School are just a few of the organizations that brought their unique flair to the festivities.In 2023, Waterfront Botanical Gardens’ volunteers collectively worked 5,082 hours in support of the Gardens’ mission. Leading the instrumental work of our 293 active volunteers are the devoted members of our Volunteer Committee: Ann Adams, Joyce Clark, Mark Ga, Lynn Luking, Ned Price, Amanda Wade Schmitt, Trudi Cooke, and Mike Hanks. Since its inception, the Volunteer Committee has represented all WBG volunteers. As the primary volunteer leadership group, they assist WBG sta with all aspects of maintaining a successful volunteer program to support the day-to-day operations of the Gardens. This group’s commitment goes beyond mere service to the Gardens; it embodies a profound dedication to environmental stewardship, community engagement, and education.The Volunteer Committee was established in 2019 when the Gardens first opened to the public. The Committee played a pivotal role in helping to establish the Gardens through event support, volunteer recruitment, and community outreach to build the Gardens’ visibility in the community. After a lull brought on by the pandemic, Membership and Volunteer Manager, Molly Young, revived the group and continues to rely on their support and leadership. “This group of volunteers is exceptional in their dedication to WBG. They work alongside me in every way and I am often humbled by their willingness to serve and to lead. They are a great representation of the Gardens’ community of volunteers and their tremendous spirit.” Kay Coyte and Amanda Wade Schmitt at Gardens AglimmerLearn more at waterfrontgardens.org/volunteer or contact Molly Young, Membership & Volunteer Manager at myoung@waterfrontgardens.org.

Save the Date! The 2024 Kaleidoscope Family Festival is Saturday, September 14, 2024. Admission is free. Learn more at waterfrontgardens.org/kaleidoscope Live musical performances included tunes by the Derby City Dandies and the whimsical melodies of Molly McCormack. Perhaps the most unique spectacle was the demonstration by Rhythm Science Sound, where sensors connected to plant leaves transformed their electrical signals into a symphony of sound.This epic day of botanical discovery would not have been possible without our sponsors, Darla Bailey and Liz Sneed, and Rainbow Blossom Natural Food Markets. Molly YoungMembership & Volunteer ManagerTHE VITAL ROLE OF VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP AT WATERFRONT BOTANICAL GARDENSAmong the first members of the Committee was Amanda Wade Schmitt. Amanda’s history with the Gardens begins with her parents and dates back to the 1980s with our founding nonprofit, Botanica. Amanda’s mother, Dot Wade, was a member of Botanica’s original Board of Directors. In 2015, Botanica formed a Volunteer Committee that Amanda and her sister joined. After the Gardens opened in 2019, Amanda shares, “I was in the first class of Garden Guides, and actually having a garden to talk about with visitors was a big change after years of saying there would ‘one day’ be a garden in Louisville!”By sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm for Waterfront Botanical Gardens, Committee members like Amanda inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world and foster a sense of environmental responsibility within the community.“I love being a part of this group,” says Committee member Mark Ga. “I like being a sounding board, and helping to develop new ways to engage volunteers to help realize the mission of WBG.”Through their thousands of interactions on behalf of the Gardens, our volunteers build relationships that transcend boundaries, creating a shared sense of purpose and pride in our mission. With a sta team of just 17, volunteers are able to multiply our impact an extraordinary amount! In 2023, the value of the Gardens’ volunteer time reached an all-time high of $161,669.We are so grateful for all Gardens volunteers, with special appreciation for the Volunteer Committee. Through their passion, expertise, and dedication, the Committee enriches every aspect of the Gardens’ operations. “Volunteering is important for me to continue my family’s mission to bring a botanical garden to Louisville. WBG is truly my happy place,” says Amanda.THE GARDENS WELCOME ‘ALL THE BUZZ’Standing confidently near the Gardens’ entrance is a shiny new four-legged friend, Gallopalooza horse ‘All the Buzz.’ This beautiful horse dons a coat of honeycomb and buzzing bees, and serves as a perfect companion for our beautiful, blooming flowers! A sincere thank you to artist Josh Wilkes and sponsor Olivia Naber for bringing this beautiful exhibit to life. Waterfront Botanical Gardens will proudly host ‘All the Buzz’ until fall 2024.

Duncan CherryMarketing & Media ManagerWaterfront Botanical Gardens oers a range of membership options designed to meet the needs of most members. Our community of Individual, Dual, Family, and Corporate members provide vital seeds of support to the Gardens, in exchange for unrivaled access to special events and exclusive perks. Gardens membership also makes a great gift! Scan the QR code or learn more at waterfrontgardens.org/membership.Become a MemberPICTURE PERFECT NATURE’S CANVAS AT THE GARDENSSpring is a time to renew and refresh, two things the Gardens are deeply familiar with. Built atop the former Ohio Street Dump, we have carefully curated five of our 23-acres into an urban oasis just a stone’s throw from downtown Louisville. As nature comes forth this season with renewed life and energy, so do many colorful visitors gracing the Gardens plaza looking for an Instagram-worthy setting to make special memories.The Gardens’ ever-changing palette provides the perfect backdrop for capturing family photos, graduates in their caps and gowns, and perfectly posed social media shots. From showcasing your fresh look, to capturing your children’s growth, or even documenting a budding relationship, spring is a perfect time to play with your photography skills. Sixteen budding horticulturists ages four to six joined us for a sold-out week of Sprouts Spring Break Camp. These pint-sized plant enthusiasts enjoyed a colorful and creative array of activities designed to educate and inspire. Starting with a day of Eric Carle-inspired fun, campers brought the characters of this renowned author’s books to life through dramatic play, art, and games. Tajah McQueen takes a selfie in the Greenhouse

Connect with us! @waterfrontgardens Waterfront Botanical GardensThe Gardens open most days at 10am (Sundays at noon!), which is the perfect time to catch the last bit of soft morning light before the sun is too high in the sky. The afternoon is a great time to snap images with a shorter depth of field, making the flora seem fuller and allowing you to be the star of the show! On Thursdays in spring and summer, we are open until 7pm, allowing for perfect golden hour photos. During this time, you can leverage the setting sun’s warm glow to surround your subjects. Our fantastic view of downtown Louisville oers a picturesque cityscape against the evening sky for an iconic backdrop.We receive many requests for photoshoots in the Gardens outside of visiting hours. Although we are unable to fulfill these requests, we recommend the Heigold Façade as an alternate location just beyond the Gardens’ entrance on Frankfort Avenue. WBG maintains the garden beds surrounding the Façade, and the historic structure serves as a great place to capture prom, birthday, or group photos without concern for closing times.Whether you’re an up-and-coming influencer, selfie enthusiast, or professional photographer, the Waterfront Botanical Gardens are a picture- perfect location for your next shoot. Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram and Facebook!CULTIVATING CURIOSITY WITH SPROUTS SPRING BREAK CAMPNext on the week’s lineup, our junior geologists discovered how dierent types of rocks are formed and used tools to sort and compare their features. Hands-on gardening fun came next, when campers visited our budding cold crops and planted a few seeds of their own to take home. Reports are that the seeds began sprouting just a few days later! As the week wrapped up, science and art activities connected famous fairytale characters to campers’ real world environments. It was a wonderfully whimsical day! On Friday, our young learners experienced the Gardens by using all five of their senses. From smelling fragrant flowers, to tasting delicious fruit, and making sound shakers out of seeds, there was a sensory experience for everyone to enjoy. We are so thankful for the volunteers that joined us in teaching, crafting, playing, and providing a tremendous learning experience for our youngest campers. Spring Break Camp will return in 2025, so stay uned for details! Steve Grider Photography - Sunset skyline view from the GardensNext up, we are looking forward to six exciting weeks of Sprouts Summer Camps. To learn more about youth and family programs at the Gardens, visit waterfrontgardens.org/youtheducationWanda PeckDirector of EducationRob Metzger Photography - Miss Kentucky Mallory Hudson and Miss Kentucky’s Teen Sophia Todd on the Beargrass Creek Pathway

P.O. BOX 5056LOUISVILLE, KY 40255-0056The garden year has no beginning and no end.“”Elizabeth LawrenceWaterfront Botanical Gardens is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, Tax ID 61-1297238We are located at 1435 Frankfort Avenue, Louisville, KY 40206