As Ganna Walska Lotusland commemorates its three-decade milestone of welcoming the public into its gardens, the anniversary signals not merely a celebration of the past, but a crucial juncture for the future.
With a steadfast commitment to conservation, education, and inspiration, the Montecito estate is preparing for the next decade, embarking on a master plan to sustain and guide the garden for future generations.
Our anniversary provided an inflection point, comparing where we were 30 years ago to where we want to be in the future, said Mari Mitchel, Lotusland’s board vice president.
The board initiated a needs assessment engaging the expertise of Arcadia Studio to envision and prioritize physical improvements that will allow the nonprofit organization to operate sustainably and thrive.
Lotusland identified six main components to the garden programming: water security, sustainability practices, reducing environmental impact, accessibility, preservation of historical structures, and the conservation of non-living collections.
We will make our property even more accessible, with pathways that are more functional for visitors with all levels of physical ability, while retaining the charm, Mitchel noted.
Water security emerges as the first priority from the master plan. Lotusland aims to modernize water capture techniques and optimize water retention, reduction, containment, and management. The garden plans to capture rainwater and water run-off, which, when fully realized, is estimated to reduce water usage by around 40%.
Lotusland has long been a pioneer in sustainability efforts, credited as one of the first pesticide-free botanic gardens in the United States. With the expertise of UC Santa Barbara researchers, the garden has developed a sustainable program encompassing botany, soil sciences, entomology, and more.
To further reduce their impact on the environment and minimize their carbon footprint, Lotusland plans to incorporate a gate for arrivals by foot or bicycle, as well as solar power and charging stations for vehicles.
Preservation is also a key aspect of the master plan. Lotusland aims to conserve its collection of handcrafted decorative tiles, garden ornaments, pots, minerals, and statuary, as well as the personal collections of Madame Ganna Walska, the creator of Lotusland. The historic structures, including the Pavilion designed by George Washington Smith with Lutah Maria Riggs, will be restored and repaired.
Lotusland’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its own gardens. The knowledge and expertise developed at Lotusland will be compiled into a technical manual to guide other public gardens and private estates in adopting sustainable practices.
As Lotusland looks towards the future, the master plan and the Lotusland Forever capital campaign work hand in hand, ensuring that funds raised are utilized to preserve and enhance the garden for future generations.
Lotusland’s dedication to sustainability, conservation, and innovation sets a shining example for garden enthusiasts, environmentalists, and communities alike. By nurturing its gardens and embracing new practices, Lotusland strives to inspire visitors to appreciate the beauty of nature and the importance of preserving it for generations to come.
