Wausau Pilot & Review
Monk Botanical Gardens will become Wausau Botanic Gardens, according to a news release issued Friday.
The release from Executive Director Darcie Howard said the decision was made after discussion and consideration by the board of directors and staff in light of “blossoming growth and budding presence across the region and even statewide.”
Monk Botanical Gardens, 1800 N. First Ave., was established in 2003 as a nonprofit when Robert W. Monk donated 21 acres of land to a group of committed volunteers to create his vision of a beautiful botanical garden focused on education. Free to the public, this is the only public botanical garden in North Central Wisconsin and now encompasses 30 acres of land, highlighting ornamental plants and connecting people with nature through educational engagement. Today, this is the only organization offering environmental education services to the Wausau area in a 60-mile radius.
Public reaction has been sharp and divided since the announcement, with many people lamenting the change on social media. A Wausau Daily Herald story published Friday reveals mixed emotions among Monk’s family members.
But Howard, in her news release, insists that Monk’s gift and vision are not going anywhere.
“This vibrant community is rooted deeply in the vision and contributions of our founding father, Robert W. Monk,” she wrote. “Rest assured, we’re as dedicated as ever to nurturing his legacy.”
The organization says Monk’s story will be shared through media in the building when its new visitor and education center is opening, and that Monk’s story is being kept alive and flourishing whenever visitors or tours are welcomed onto the property.
The organization will also create a tribute to Monk and his wife, a memorial site that will “be a testament to their lasting impact on our community and a beacon of growth and beauty for all who visit.”
Howard said the decision embraces the garden’s growth and enhances the positive influence it has on the community.
“We have evolved from a personal asset to an incredible community asset, and our new name reflects that journey,” she wrote. “A name change is in the best interest of the organization and the community we serve so that our roots will continue to deepen as a community asset.”
Dave Eckmann, executive director of the Wausau Chamber of Commerce, is also quoted in the release.
“ The Greater Wausau community is located at the crossroads of commerce, the intersection of I39 and Hwy 29,” Eckmann’s statement reads. “As people travel the state of Wisconsin it is vitally important to identify and communicate community economic assets. Wausau Botanic Gardens (formerly Monk Gardens) will bring greater geographic acknowledgment of an incredibly important economic asset.”
Tim White, executive director of Visit Wausau, said in the release his organization is also thrilled by the change.
“This name change reflects the garden’s growth and transformation into a premier destination for botanical exploration,” White said. “Wausau Botanic Gardens captures the essence of our expansive and diverse experiences that enchant visitors year-round. We believe this new identity will not only resonate with our visitors but also enhance our visibility and appeal as a must-visit location in the region.”
