Frequently Asked Questions
Why a Botanical Garden, and why now?
A botanical garden is a "forever" asset. By starting the planning process today, we ensure that the Lake Champlain Botanical Garden (LCBG) is built to balance environmental preservation with economic growth. It fills a unique niche in our region, offering an accessible, year-round cultural destination that complements our wilder Adirondack landscapes.
How does the Garden benefit our local economy?
The LCBG acts as a reliable anchor for local commerce. It brings a steady, predictable stream of visitors to our region, providing a robust customer base for restaurants, shops, and lodging. Beyond tourism, it represents a multi-million-dollar investment in the region, creating jobs and contributing to the overall vibrancy of the town.
Will there be a cost for local residents?
While most world-class botanical gardens require an entrance fee to support conservation and maintenance, we are committed to being a community-first institution. This includes exploring special pricing, "resident days," local membership passes, and volunteer programs to ensure that the LCBG remains a welcoming "backyard" for those who live here.
How will this impact the "quiet" character of our area?
Our vision is one of low-impact growth. By the time the garden is fully established in 2035, we anticipate a level of visitation that supports local businesses without overwhelming our infrastructure. Our planning focuses on "slow tourism"—attracting visitors who value serenity, nature, and the charm of our local, rural community.
What about traffic and parking?
Thoughtful design is at the heart of the LCBG project. Because a botanical garden is a seasonal, daytime destination, visitors arrive and depart in a staggered fashion throughout the day. We are committed to a master plan that prioritizes unobtrusive parking and traffic flow that respects our neighbors and rural roads.
No! Modern botanical gardens are designed for all seasons. We envision a calendar that includes maple sugaring in the spring, harvest-themed programming in the autumn, and winter light displays and cross-country skiing that bring warmth and activity to the community during the quieter months of the year.
Is this just a "summer" project?
How will the garden manage its impact on nearby neighbors?
Although we are looking for roughly a 100-acre parcel, whatever the final size of the property, we will develop only about 25 acres of land for garden features and buildings.
The remaining acreage serves as a natural buffer. This "green belt" provides natural privacy and sound absorption for neighbors and creates an immersive experience for visitors.
Our goal is to be a sanctuary for the community, ensuring the garden remains a respectful presence in the neighborhood.