The Gardens on Spring Creek was first envisioned in 1986 but the first critical step in our development did not come until 1995, when our founding non-profit group successfully convinced the Fort Collins city council to initiate a city-funded community horticulture program. The positive results of that program's dozens of gardens and gardening projects were then used as a springboard to secure the endorsement of voters in a 1997 municipal election, resulting in three million dollars in city funding to build the Gardens on Spring Creek. Ground was finally broken on the Visitors Center in 2004.

Mission Statement

The mission of The Gardens on Spring Creek is to enrich the lives of people and foster environmental stewardship through horticulture.

To achieve this mission, The Gardens: offers education on sustainable horticulture and ecology; provides a setting for enjoyment, renewal and healing; connects people with nature, each other, and our local place; and encourages public involvement, partnerships, and community service.

Vision Statement

To be a world-class botanic garden that is community oriented,educational, experiential and sustainable.

We are dedicated to the following values:

• Sharing a passion for horticulture and its ability to enrich people's
  lives
• Honoring our local place, both the natural and human environments
• Demonstrating respect and compassion for all people
• Promoting environmental stewardship
• Serving the Fort Collins community through public involvement and partnerships
• Providing public service with enthusiasm, hard work, and cost-effectiveness