Our History
Nestled in the heart of Clear Lake, Iowa, Central Gardens is North Iowa's only public
garden. 
Central Gardens of North Iowa was developed 9 years ago by securing 2.75
acres of land which was the former site of an elementary school.
When completed, the gardens will be home to over
22 theme gardens. The Ceremonial and Activity Lawns will provide much needed space
for guests and visitors to use for corporate events, weddings, family reunions or
just a quiet stroll or lunch. Currently, over 16,000 guests visit the Gardens annually.
In 2000, a formal committee was appointed and efforts began in the design and organization.
The Master Plan was created by award winning landscape architect Dennis Buettner
of Buettner & Associates, Fox Point, Wisconsin. In 2003, the Central Gardens organization
was incorporated as a non-profit corporation.
The construction of the Gardens is an estimated $1 million, with an additional $1
million Endowment Fund which will provide for future maintenance. It has been the
financial philosphy since inception that 50% of every dollar raised goes towards
the garden development, and the remaining 50% is invested in the Endowment Fund.
In November 2004, a Vision Iowa/CAT grant of $225,000 was awarded. This has accelerated
the construction timeframe and has added to the fundraising success. To date, over
$1,500,000 has been raised. Naming opportunities are available including the purchase
of bricks and pavers.
Planted and maintained by hundreds of volunteers, the Garden is in its 3rd year
of planting. It is estimated that the project will be completed over the next 2
years with a completion date of 2008-2009.