San Francisco Botanical Garden - Gardens - From the Executive Director

Executive Director Michael McKechnie
By building partnerships among diverse organizations, focusing on creative programming, and establishing the right priorities, Executive Director Michael McKechnie has managed the successful growth of four vital nonprofits and served on the governing boards of a number of research, fundraising and civic organizations where he has provided governance, financial, and strategic planning oversight.

March Happenings

Did you see the magnolias? There are still quite a good number in bloom and they are and have been beautiful. If you haven't seen them this year consider dodging the raindrops and take a walk among them. You can pick up a map that pinpoints their locations at the booth at the gates. And don't miss the earliest blooms of the dramatic King Protea and the blues, lavenders, and creams of our own native Ceanothus.

As you visit over the next 60 days you will also see more work around the fountain in the center of the Great Meadow. This is the very last phase of the Pathways Project and will include the retiling of the fountain basin, the installation of a new water pump for the fountain, and some neatening of the northwest portion of the plaza itself where the asphalt is still pretty rugged. In May we should have a beautifully restored Fountain Plaza. Integral to the plaza are the pavers that can be obtained to recognize and honor loved ones. That program will help finance the further expansion and eventual completion of the Plaza. We are finding that there is high interest in these pavers. To find out more, contact Heidi at (415) 661-1316, ext. 304.

The Edible Garden is under construction, led by environmental artist Topher Delaney. This will be a virtual and actual feast for children, families and adults where all can learn how food comes from the earth. This installation will open to the public soon. I'll let you know more about it is as the opening approaches.

There are ever more reasons to visit the Garden, and we are noting that even in mid-winter visitation is very steady. While the admissions program is still controversial, it has had the very positive result of giving us the ability to outreach more broadly about the Garden and its programs for the public. Admission is producing better and better financial returns, too. We are finding that by and large, out-of-town visitors do not object to paying a fee to visit the botanical garden. It will make a difference in keeping the Garden alive and vibrant by retaining the excellent gardening staff we are blessed with.

From the Director

March Happenings