Among the natural springs, rolling hills and ravines that make up Fernwood’s 105 acres, the rare yellow-flowering magnolia tree is one of many flora and fauna that due to the botanical garden and nature preserve’s unique topography is native to Michigan, but not likely found in residents’ backyards.
Executive Director Carol Line said it is protecting these rare and unique plants for generations to come that spurred the nonprofit’s goal to provide an oasis to the tens of thousands of residents who visit the garden every year.
With the help of the “Seed the Future” campaign that legacy will continue.
On Thursday, the garden announced that they have garnered $2.2 million in funding for their “Seed the Future” campaign, since it was first announced in 2013. With $750,000 to go, organizers aim to breaking ground on the new projects fueled by the campaign this year.
While helping to assure Fernwood’s future, the campaign will also provide revenue for a new 5,000- square-foot educational center, improvements to the visitor center/garden master plan and cultural endowment.
As Line reflected on the progress of the campaign, she said she has seen a number of communities, individuals and organizations that she wished to thank for showing their support.
“We have a very special little slice of land here,” Line said. “We have been very fortunate the community has been very good to us. Our local foundations have really led the way and it has been a very rewarding process.”
With so many visitors coming to explore the area that borders the St. Joseph River in Buchanan Township, the 35-year-old education center, has been outgrown.
“We are stretched for space,” Line said. “The new education center will allow us to accommodate the school groups better and expand our programming.”
Projected to cost an approximate $1.85 million, the education center will double classroom size and will include new programs in horticulture, botany and environmental sciences. The programs are geared to all ages, and offer a threshold to Fernwood’s biggest classroom of all — its 105 acres.
Development Coordinator Elaine Rowland said classes are aimed at getting students out into the garden to learn.
With 535 plant species, 403 of which are native to Michigan, there is no shortage of material.
The education center, which will be constructed to overlook the St. Joseph River, will include two multi-use classroom wings, aptly named Flora and Fauna. Garden goers will also be able gaze at the river from the new viewing center.
Line is also excited about the buildings design, which is being created by Chicago architects Stanley Tigerman and Margaret McCurry.
The campaign also includes a 10- to- 15- year master plan to expand the garden and improve the visitor center. This portion of the project is estimated to cost $650,000.
This portion of the project will aim to improve paths and trails, create a Children’s Adventure Garden, expand the Railway Garden, update the cafe and outdoor decks, as well as implementation to reduce maintenance and be more sustainable, including turning a stretch of grass area into a natural meadow. Line said she hopes to one day also install a canopy garden.
With an approximate $500,000 dedicated to cultural programming and endowment, Fernwood will continue providing a multitude of cultural events and programs, which draws professionals in the field to the garden to share their knowledge.
“I invite everyone in the community to come out,” Line said. “We would be happy to speak with them.”
Those interested in contributing can call Fernwood to make a donation at (269) 695-6491 or seedthefuture@fernwoodbotanical.org.