The Botanical Garden of the Ozarks has received a $220,000 donation from Nancy (née Totemeier) and William Koch, supporting two major capital projects that will expand the garden’s capacity and visitor experiences.
The gift will fund construction of a new greenhouse facility that will double the garden’s growing capacity and a refresh of the Carl A. Totemeier Horticulture & Event Center, aiming to improve both functionality and comfort for guests.
Nancy Koch is the daughter of Jean and Carl Totemeier, who both played influential roles in the development of the botanical garden in Fayetteville.
Carl Totemeier was a nationally recognized horticulturist, educator and gardening columnist whose career spanned more than four decades. For 14 years he wrote a weekly gardening column for The New York Times, in addition to contributions to the Morning News of Northwest Arkansas and Arkansas Gardener.
After relocating to northwest Arkansas, he became an early leader in the creation of the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks. He was deeply involved in developing the garden’s vision and participated in the creation of its master plan. During his tenure as volunteer executive director from 2002 to 2004, the garden completed its master plan and secured city approval of a revised lease that enabled long-term development.
“The Koch family’s gift represents both a continuation of the Totemeier legacy and an investment in the garden’s future,” Ashley Wardlow, executive director of the BGO, said in a press release. “Their support allows us to strengthen our horticultural capacity while also improving one of our most visible and frequently used public spaces.”
Expanding Capacity with a New Greenhouse
The new greenhouse will be constructed adjacent to the garden’s existing 3,000-SF facility, which currently supports the propagation and seasonal refresh of plant material throughout the 12 themed gardens. Although the current structure has been maximized through bench systems and double-layer storage, it accommodates only 8,500–9,000 pots at a time — short of the 14,000+ plants typically needed for seasonal changeovers.
The new facility will mirror the footprint of the original structure and feature improved flooring, ventilation, accessibility, and electrical systems. It will increase production capacity, as well as create new opportunities for education and volunteer engagement, allowing guests to see the science and care behind maintaining the garden’s plant collections.
“For me, this gift is about what the garden represents today and what it will mean for future generations,” William Koch said in the release. “It’s a place that inspires learning, beauty and connection for everyone who visits. I’m proud that Nancy and I can play a role in shaping the experience guests of BGO will enjoy for years to come.”
Nancy and William Koch reside in Pittsburgh. William is the retired vice president and chief financial officer of Development Dimensions International Inc. of Bridgeville, Pennsylvania.
Refreshing a Landmark
In addition to the greenhouse, the Kochs’ gift will support a refresh of the Carl A. Totemeier Horticulture & Event Center, a central hub that welcomes more than 100,000 guests each year.
The project will include new exterior siding, restored entry doors, restroom stalls and updated flooring in the second-floor offices, along with new desks and seating.
Originally opened nearly two decades ago, the center hosts educational programs, community events, weddings and private celebrations, which generate operating revenue. The planned updates aim to improve accessibility, comfort and appearance.
“This investment ensures that one of our most beloved and hardest-working spaces remains welcoming and well-equipped for the next generation,” Wardlow said in the release. “It honors Carl Totemeier’s legacy while preparing the garden for the future.”
Design and planning for both projects are underway as the garden prepares for its next phase of growth. The garden currently sits on 44 acres on the east side of Lake Fayetteville, and includes 12 display gardens and the state’s only butterfly house.
A groundbreaking for the new greenhouse is scheduled for Nov. 11, with completion of both projects expected in 2026. The press release states that together, the initiatives “reflect the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks’ commitment to sustainability, education and community engagement.”
Sign up for Daily E-news
