SR 1054: Atlanta Botanical Garden; recognize and commend

Senate Resolution 1054

By: Senators Halpern of the 39th, Merritt of the 9th and Kemp of the 38th

A RESOLUTION

Recognizing and commending the Atlanta Botanical Garden on the occasion of its 50th anniversary; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, incorporated in 1976, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is celebrating 50 years of excellence as one of the nation's premier public gardens and a treasured cultural and environmental asset; and

WHEREAS, what began as a grassroots vision in 1973 has grown into a 30-acre urban oasis in Midtown Atlanta, serving as a space for education, conservation, and community engagement; and

WHEREAS, over the decades, the garden has expanded significantly, including the addition of the Children's Garden in 1999 and the Fuqua Orchid Center in 2002, enhancing its role as a leader in horticulture and public education; and

WHEREAS, continued innovation led to the completion of the Canopy Walk, now known as the Kendeda Canopy Walk, a 600-foot elevated pathway through Storza Woods that offers visitors a unique perspective of Atlanta's natural landscape; and

WHEREAS, in 2015, the garden broadened its impact by opening a second campus in Gainesville, further extending its mission across the region; and

WHEREAS, the Atlanta Botanical Garden has remained deeply committed to conservation and research, operating the Southeastern Center for Conservation and serving as a founding member of the Georgia Plant Conservation Alliance to protect native plant species and biodiversity; and

WHEREAS, the garden has received numerous accolades for its excellence, including the Iseli Award for its Southern Conifer Garden, a United States Fish and Wildlife Service grant supporting habitat restoration, and the American Public Gardens Association's Award for Garden Excellence; and

WHEREAS, through dynamic programming and seasonal exhibitions, including community-centered events such as "Tulips at Twilight," the garden continues to provide enriching experiences for residents and visitors alike; and

WHEREAS, for five decades, the Atlanta Botanical Garden has inspired environmental stewardship, fostered education, and contributed significantly to the cultural and ecological landscape of the region.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body recognize and commend the Atlanta Botanical Garden for its 50 years of outstanding service, growth, and commitment to conservation and community enrichment as well as extend best wishes for continued success in the years to come.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the Atlanta Botanical Garden.