In 1984, The Idaho Botanical Garden was established on a 32-acre site of old prison grounds leased from the Idaho State Historical Society and the State of Idaho. Local botanist, Dr. Christopher Davidson, assembled the first board of directors comprised of 17 civic leaders and professionals. The Garden founders and board built an irrigation system, nature trails, and planted two acres, including the Meditation, Rose and Herb Gardens.

Since then, the Garden has gradually expanded to become the awe-inspiring destination it is today.

We commit to being a force for positive, actionable change and to protect and co-exist within nature knowing the role we play will have a long-lasting impact on future generations.

We work to lower our carbon footprint through sustainability efforts at all events. We provide many onsite bike racks and strongly encourage ride-sharing and biking to the garden. We are currently boosting our recycling programs and collaborating with vendors to offer eco-friendly solutions for food and drink, waste management, and more plant-based menu options. Potable water is available at the garden most months of the year. Bring a reusable bottle and fill it up at any event!

In the garden, we are continuously seeking sustainable ways to approach gardening, including water-wise crops, low flow irrigation techniques, and limited use of harsh chemicals.

We are committed to replacing our energy usage from electric to solar, wind, and hydroelectric. Our building materials will be healthy, highly efficient, and low impact. As we replace our tools, inventory, and other assets we are committed to continuously shifting our ways to live in harmony with the natural world.