What's Happening at the Centennial Botanical Conservatory
Renovation Announcement
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Renovation Update!!!
We've just been informed that phase 2 of the renovation will be starting soon. To prepare, the conservatory will be closing to the public as of 8 pm Friday February 9, 2024. Phase 2 will see upgrades to the tropical display areas. In order to be ready for the arrival of contract services, staff will be clearing space and moving and protecting plants. This is your chance to get your last look at the conservatory as it is, and take your "before" pictures. We are looking forward to keeping in touch during renovations, and working with conservatory management to keep you informed of the progress! |
Greeting Cards Continue to Sell
Just a reminder, as holidays approach, that we continue to sell greeting cards.
Thank you for your continued support! |
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Bewitched Botanicals
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The Friends of the TB Conservatory are once again having an event!
Join us at Bewitched Botanicals: A Spooky Spectacle at The Thunder Bay Botanical Conservatory! ✨🍂🎃🦇🌙 Get ready for a bewitching experience at Bewitched Botanicals, an enchanting Halloween event hosted by the Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory! 🌸👻 🗓 Date: October 29th 🕛 Time: 12:00 PM - 3:30 PM 📍 Location: Thunder Bay Botanical Conservatory 🎉 What to Expect: ✨ Greeting Card Sales: Explore spooktacular designs and add a touch of magic to your greetings! 🔍 Scavenger Hunt: Embark on a mysterious adventure amidst the lush greenery! 👻 Don't miss out on this spooktacular event! Whether you're a witch, wizard, ghost, or ghoul, come join us for an afternoon filled with fun, laughter, and all things spooky! Costume wearing encouraged!👽🕸 This event is open to all ages. See you at Bewitched Botanicals! Let's make this Halloween unforgettable! Facebook event page : https://fb.me/e/1vvvNTmPl | ||
Celebrating 10th Anniversary
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On this day (June 12, 2023) ten years ago an enthusiastic group of individuals held an inaugural meeting and chose an executive board to advance the work of the Friends in supporting and promoting Thunder Bay's Centennial Botanical Conservatory.
The Founding Executive Board Members were: Chair: Kathleen Ott Vice Chair: Kevin Sidlar Secretary/Treasurer: Sharon Sidlar Members at large were: Dan Fulton, Ellen Ennis-Davis, Sandra Nunn, and Terri-Lynne Carter |
Plant Pots for Sale April 29, 2023
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On Saturday April 29, (Sunday as a rain date) Friends will be gathering outside the Conservatory to sell gently used pots. Prices and sizes vary so please bring cash and a ready spirit.
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Fundraising Initiative Starts
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The Friends of the Conservatory have decided to start fundraising by selling greeting cards. Please contact us via Facebook or via email if you would like to purchase. Also, we have some popups at the conservatory to sell in person if that's more your style. Keep an eye on our social media for dates and times.
Thank you for all your support! |
Conservatory Temporarily Reopens
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While staff wait for the next stage of construction, the Conservatory has been temporarily reopened. It remains unsure when the next phase of updating will begin but until then why not enjoy the sights and sounds of our tropical oasis?
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Renovations at the Conservatory
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2022 was an exciting year for the Conservatory as renovations and upgrades began behind the scenes with the growing greenhouses and cold frames. 2023 promises to be just as exciting as we watch the Conservatory close down for front of house rejuvenations. We can't wait to see how it all turns out.
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Happy Anniversary to our Beloved Conservatory
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November 18, 2022
Happy 55th Anniversary to Thunder Bay's much-loved Centennial Botanical Conservatory, officially opened on this day in 1967 to celebrate Canada's 100th Birthday! Thunder Bay's Centennial Botanical Conservatory was one of only 10 Botanical Conservatories in all of Canada in 1967 and was described by the Secretary of the Centennial Advisory Council in Toronto as “one of the better Centennial projects submitted for the whole of Canada.” The Conservatory complex is currently in the midst of major upgrades including a recently built Seasonal Coldframe Greenhouse and an almost completed new Production Greenhouse. Renewal of the Tropical Display House and Wings (Conservatory proper) will follow. The Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory are so grateful to the City of Thunder Bay for their support of this tropical treasure. |
Retirement of Mike Dixon, Supervisor of Forestry & Horticulture
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Mike Dixon, a professional forester, was hired in 2013 as Supervisor of Forestry & Horticulture with the City of Thunder Bay. Part of his portfolio was the Centennial Botanical Conservatory. At a time when others were looking to close the Conservatory and it's supporting infrastructure, Mike saw the unique potential it offered to the people of Thunder Bay and committed to working to enhance and save the facility.
Mike was always welcoming and open to the initiatives that the Friends of the Conservatory and others proposed, including encouraging our holding of regular events, providing space and resources for our demonstration garden, helping Rudy and Lois Kutchta establish a demonstration apiary, and assisting the Horticultural Association with their perennial garden. The number of visitors inside the Conservatory as well as throughout the grounds increased with the addition of new activities and features. With growing numbers of visitors the hours of service were increased including the addition of evening hours during winter months. |
Under Mike's supervision the Conservatory and its grounds flourished. New trees and gardens were planted. The Conservatory won a “2016 Clean Green and Beautiful Public Spaces” award for its pollinator gardens. City parks became more ecologically friendly with the addition of more native and pollinator friendly plants.
None of this progress came easily. In June, 2020 Grant Thornton recommended permanently closing the Botanical Conservatory complex and COVID-19 has brought additional difficulties including temporary closures. The fact that we still have our beautiful Botanical Conservatory with the City's promise to renew it has a great deal to do with Mike's efforts behind the scenes. We will miss him greatly and wish him all the very best in his retirement. Board of Directors, Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory |
COVID Can't Stop Us
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In a year of closures and new normals, we have once again found a way to start our demonstration garden!
Thank you again to the fantastic crew who, in less than 1.5 hours, had the yard weeded, and the raised beds weeded and stripped of mulch. Two full wheelbarrows of grass and weeds went to the back compost pile. Watch the garden grow and see what we have chosen for this year! |
Statement Following 2021 Conservatory Budget Approval
Statement From the Board of Directors of the Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory, June 08, 2021
The Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Thunder Bay City Council for its unanimous decision to proceed with the renewal of the Centennial Botanical Conservatory and to establish a $1,400,000 budget from the Renew Thunder Bay Fund for the project.
It has been repeatedly demonstrated through public consultations that investment in the Conservatory complex is supported by the people of Thunder Bay.
Investment in renewal of the Botanical Conservatory display area, including the two end wings, will result in considerable operational and energy savings, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved accessibility, additional opportunities for the public, growing attendance numbers and increased interest from the tourist sector.
The positive effects of green space on improved mental health and stress reduction have been well documented and are increasingly important as we cope with the ongoing fallout of COVID-19. People of all ages, abilities and socioeconomic backgrounds find respite and solace among the tropical greenery, even in the depths of our long northern winters.
We are so grateful for all the planning and work already done towards renewal of the facility and we are committed to supporting Council’s continued efforts to revitalize the Centennial Botanical Conservatory complex.
Sincerely,
The Board of Directors of the Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory
The Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Thunder Bay City Council for its unanimous decision to proceed with the renewal of the Centennial Botanical Conservatory and to establish a $1,400,000 budget from the Renew Thunder Bay Fund for the project.
It has been repeatedly demonstrated through public consultations that investment in the Conservatory complex is supported by the people of Thunder Bay.
Investment in renewal of the Botanical Conservatory display area, including the two end wings, will result in considerable operational and energy savings, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved accessibility, additional opportunities for the public, growing attendance numbers and increased interest from the tourist sector.
The positive effects of green space on improved mental health and stress reduction have been well documented and are increasingly important as we cope with the ongoing fallout of COVID-19. People of all ages, abilities and socioeconomic backgrounds find respite and solace among the tropical greenery, even in the depths of our long northern winters.
We are so grateful for all the planning and work already done towards renewal of the facility and we are committed to supporting Council’s continued efforts to revitalize the Centennial Botanical Conservatory complex.
Sincerely,
The Board of Directors of the Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory
Final Statement in Favor of 2021 Budget
The final budget meeting might be coming up to decide whether the Conservatory will get a much needed injection of cash, but we have already been busy planning a statement to Council. The following is our June 2021 Deputation.
June 2021 Deputation
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The Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory would like to express our sincere gratitude to Council for its decisions to replace the Botanical Conservatory’s Coldframe Greenhouse and Production Greenhouses. While the City of Thunder Bay is experiencing challenging economic times, Administration has clearly demonstrated that funding for their replacement is fiscally responsible.
It has been repeatedly demonstrated through public consultations that investment in the Conservatory complex is supported by the people of Thunder Bay. According to the bi yearly Citizen Satisfaction surveys done in 2013, 2015 and 2017, the Centennial Botanical Conservatory facility redevelopment had more citizen support than the Waterfront development as a major capital project. Investment in renewal of the Botanical Conservatory display area, including the two end wings, will result in considerable operational and energy savings, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved accessibility, additional opportunities for the public, growing attendance numbers and increased interest from the tourist sector. |
The positive effects of green space on improved mental health and stress reduction have been well documented and are increasingly important as we cope with the ongoing fallout of COVID-19. The healing power of the Centennial Botanical Conservatory can’t be overstated. People of all ages, abilities and socioeconomic backgrounds find respite and solace among the tropical greenery, even in the depths of our long northern winters.
We are so grateful for all the planning and work done towards renewal of the facility so far and we are committed to supporting your continued efforts to revitalize the full Centennial Botanical Conservatory complex. |
February 2021 Deputation
Despite the continued lockdown COVID-19 has brought to the Conservatory, here at the Friends organization we have still been busy advocating for it. As such, the following document is the deputation provided to the City of Thunder Bay in February of 2021.
Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory
Deputation to City Council February 2021
Deputation to City Council February 2021
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The Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory would like to to express our sincere gratitude to Council for unanimously passing Report No. R 23/2020 from Infrastructure & Operations - Parks and Open Spaces which included a recommendation that "funds required for the replacement of the [Conservatory Production Greenhouses] be included in the 2021Capital Budget for consideration." We are grateful for Council's re-commitment to the renewal of the Botanical Conservatory complex.
While the City of Thunder Bay is experiencing truly challenging economic times, Administration has demonstrated that funding for replacement of the Production Greenhouses is necessary and fiscally responsible. Savings over the expected 30 year lifespan of the new Production Greenhouses will more than pay for their construction. It has been repeatedly demonstrated through public consultations that investment in the Conservatory complex is supported by the people of Thunder Bay. According to the biyearly Citizen Satisfaction Surveys done for the City of Thunder Bay in 2013, 2015 and 2017, Parks renewal and enhancements, intrinsically linked to the Conservatory complex and its horticultural staff, came second overall in citizen approval ratings for major capital projects, only beaten by roads, bridges and stormwater management. Stormwater management is also linked to horticultural operations at the Conservatory through the native plants grown for LID beds. It should be noted that in those same surveys the Centennial Botanical Conservatory facility redevelopment actually led the Waterfront development in citizen approval for major capital projects. |
The positive effects of green space on improved mental health and stress reduction have been well documented and are increasingly important as we cope with the ongoing fallout of COVID-19. The role played by the Conservatory complex and its horticultural staff is vital to healthy City's parks, including the Botanical Conservatory, a beautiful indoor park accessible to all ages, abilities and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Thank you again for adding funding for the Conservatory Production Greenhouses to the 2021 Budget and for your commitment to renewal of this essential infrastructure... infrastructure that supports natural, inclusive environments for the quality of life, health and well-being of all citizens 
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The Motion has Passed!
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The motion to invest in the Conservatory passed unanimously late in the evening of October 5th.
We would like to say thank you to City Council! As well as a great big thank you to all of you wonderful, loyal Conservatory supporters! |
Conservatory Renewal Opportunities, Horticultural Operations
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Here is a presentation made to City Council, on October 5, 2020 by Cory Halvorsen (Manager of Parks and Open Space) and Mike Dixon (Supervisor of Forestry and Horticulture).
Click the file to watch their presentation and learn some more about the Conservatory operations |
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Deputation to Thunder Bay Council September 24, 2020
Once again, the Friends were hard at work creating a Deputation to bring towards Council advocating for the Botanical Conservatory. Presented on September 24, the attached document was the result of our efforts.
| deputation_to_the_september_24_2020_committee_of_the_whole__special_session_-_program_and_service_review_.pdf |
A Promise Unfulfilled: The Thunder Bay Conservatory
Documentary by Torin Gunnell
Torin GunnellIn this video Torin Gunnell explains why he has been donating his time, talent and resources to make a documentary to help save Thunder Bay's Centennial Botanical Conservatory complex. Have a watch and get a sense of who this wonderfully talented young man is.
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Save the Thunder Bay Centennial Botanical ConservatoryPlease sign and share the official E-Petition for Thunder Bay's Centennial Botanical Conservatory.
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Demonstration Garden Back Up and Running
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A crew of 5 volunteers planted the 8 raised beds in the Demonstration Garden on June 5th. Another crew has been caring for the garden throughout the summer. Because of COVID-19 we are unable to plant with the children or do demonstration events this year but the vegetables that are grown will be shared in the community and donated to RFDA. Stop by and wander through not only our garden, also visit the Pollinator garden and the Apiary.
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Needs Assessment Report
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Despite its current closure due to COVID-19 measures, the Conservatory is still very much at the forefront of our minds. In anticipation of Phase 2 of Grant Thornton's Program & Service Review due in June, we have been busy raising awareness of the Conservatory and the numerous ways it continues to benefit the city. To that end, we are posting the most recent needs assessment report so that our members can remain informed regarding the Conservatory.
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Conservatory Plant Assessment Report
By Green Design Landscaping Inc. / Kernow Garden Inc.
Centennial Botanical Conservatory – Expanded Services Opportunity Evaluation Report
By Bain Smith Business Valuation and Consulting Inc.
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Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory Deputation February, 3, 2020
In response to the Phase one report of the Grant Thornton City Program and Services Review, the Botanical Conservatory was recommended for closure during the 2020 Budget meetings held by the City of Thunder Bay. As a result, the Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory took the time to submit a 2020 Deputation, and at the February, 3 meeting it was presented to city counselors.
Please refer to the attached deputation to see in full the many reasons we have advocated, and continue to advocate, for the continued operation of the Botanical Conservatory. You can also read our Top 10 Reasons to Visit here.
Please refer to the attached deputation to see in full the many reasons we have advocated, and continue to advocate, for the continued operation of the Botanical Conservatory. You can also read our Top 10 Reasons to Visit here.
| Deputation2020.pdf |
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Harvest Time is Upon us Once MoreCome join us as we haul in the fruits of our labour! Kids and parents alike delight in learning about everything a local garden can produce and this is your chance to see it in person. So join us and maybe it will inspire some garden dreams to get you planning for next Spring.
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Demonstration Garden Is Busy In Operation Again
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Spring is an extremely busy time for Conservatory staff. The production greenhouses are overflowing with bedding plants and floral displays that will soon beautify city parks. Growing in-house saves tax dollars.
For the Friends, it is no less busy. From spreading compost, turning soil, and fertalizing straw bales, we have been getting our demonstration and children's garden ready for planting. It's a labour of love where the public and volunteers alike, can get their hands dirty and connect to nature by learning about food from its most basic source - the ground! So stop by and see what's growing, maybe pull a weed or two, and enjoy what the wonders of Thunder Bay's climate can give us. |
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2019 Annual General Meeting InvitationEveryone is invited to attend the Annual General Meeting of the Friends of the ThunderBay Conservatory at the Mary J. L. Black Library, 7 pm, Tue, May 7. Find out what's been happening at the Conservatory and share your ideas and hopes for the future!
We have vacancies on the executive and would welcome you to our team. Memberships are available between 6:30 - 7:00 pm at $10.00 for individuals and $25.00 for families. Memberships are required for voting and must be renewed/purchased prior to the start of the meeting. |
Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory: Deputation to City Council Jan. 10, 2019
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Our intention today is to ask for your commitment to fund badly needed infrastructure upgrades to the Centennial Botanical Conservatory. We are also asking that the City’s Needs Assessment recommendations for the future of the Conservatory and its working greenhouses be released to the public.
Designed by renowned architects Lord & Burnham and opened in 1967 to celebrate Canada’s Centennial, the Conservatory structure is of “notable historical significance” and, according to the June, 2017 Conservatory Plant Assessment Report, it contains tropical plants appraised at an estimated 2-5 million dollars. The Centennial Botanical Conservatory constitutes a valuable and beautiful botanical legacy to the people of Thunder Bay. [see Appendix A & B] The positive effects of green space on improved mental health and stress reduction have been well documented. The Conservatory is a lush tropical indoor park utilized by groups and individuals of all ages, abilities, cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds, even in the depths of winter. It is a vital asset to city residents as well as to those from surrounding areas. [see Appendix C] The Centennial Botanical Conservatory is also an important Thunder Bay tourist attraction that given adequate publicity has the potential for real growth. Trip Advisor lists the Conservatory in the “Top Ten things to do” in Thunder Bay and according to the Conservatory's own guest books, visitors from around the world have enjoyed the facility. In view of its importance, the current state of the Conservatory, after having seen no upgrades in 51 years, is very troubling. Navigating the facility can be difficult for individuals using walkers or wheelchairs as the paths and bridge do not meet current accessibility standards. When FedNor awarded $100,000 to the City of Thunder Bay for upgrades to the Conservatory under the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program, they specifically focussed on, “...renovations, as well the widening of pathways to accommodate people with disabilities or mobility challenges.” Those upgrades have not been done. [see Appendix D] The badly leaking roof as well as the prolonged closure of the very popular Cactus Room and the Seasonal Display Room, once a favourite spot for family weddings and photos, are all concerns expressed by visitors. |
In the fall of 2009 an Energy Audit & Optimization Study of the Conservatory was conducted for the City by Profor Engineering Services Ltd. It was determined that if new Lexan ThermoClear Panels were installed on the main building to replace the current glass at a cost of $265,000.00, it would pay for itself in 6.5 years in energy savings. It was also determined that, if a new condensing boiler plant was installed for $235,000.00, it would pay for itself in 11.2 years in energy savings. None of these recommendations were done. [see Appendix E]
In the spring of 2017 the City held a stakeholders meeting and a needs assessment open house to get feedback on the future of the Conservatory. A plant assessment was undertaken in June of 2017 by Green Design Landscaping Inc., and Kernow Garden’s Inc. A business plan was completed by Bain Smith Consulting in January of 2018. The public is still waiting to hear the results of these studies and to learn what the City’s recommendations are for the future of the Conservatory and its working greenhouses. With structural upgrades it has been clearly demonstrated that significant energy savings will be realized. With the addition of physical space that could be utilized by the community, there also exists the very real potential for increased revenue in the form of, wedding rentals, photographic sessions, educational seminars, workshops, and even a small tea room or coffee shop. The combined revenues realized would certainly off-set some of the upgrading costs. Our request to you is two-fold: • That Council commit the required funding for badly needed upgrades to the Conservatory and its working greenhouses • and that the City’s Needs Assessment recommendations for the future of the Conservatory and its working greenhouses be released to the public. (see appendices attached below) (also see full deputation attached below) 
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Another Old Friend LostThunder Bay's Centennial Botanical Conservatory lost its lovely, large, double pink hibiscus in October, 2018. The beautiful shrub had developed rot at its base and the roots were failing so it had to be taken down. It will be truly missed.
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Lakehead Antique Car ClubThe Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory would like to express our sincere gratitude to the members of the Lakehead Antique Car Club for their generous donation presented at the 50th Anniversary Celebration. It is this spirit of shared love for Thunder Bay's Centennial Botanical Conservatory that keeps our Friends group and the Conservatory alive. Thank you so much!
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Laurenne d’Esterre
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Meet Ren, the brilliant and delightful student intern from Lakehead University who presented the "Spring into Life" children's program at the Conservatory on Sunday, March 19, 2018:
My name is Laurenne d’Esterre, and I am a 5th year student at Lakehead University. I studied Outdoor Recreation, Parks and Tourism in my undergraduate degree and have continued my passion for nature in teacher’s college. After graduating this spring, I hope to become an environmental science teacher anywhere from grades 4-12. Botany has always been interesting to me growing up, so sharing my knowledge in the children’s activity seemed to be a fun, interactive way to get kids engaged and learning! I am a big believer in experiential learning and think that something hands-on will be much more memorable than sitting and listening to a lesson. Volunteering with the Friends of the Conservatory has opened a new door to spending my spare time connecting with people who love nature as much as I do. During my year in teacher’s college, I have been educated on alternatives for teachers and ecological literacy. The two year-long courses have impacted me greatly by changing my thinking about how we educate students about the environment we live in as well as the environments across the globe. People were learning, eating, laughing and enjoyed the music, refreshments and mini lesson about tropical fruit at the Spring to Life event. Plants bring people together! |
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December at the Conservatory
Centennial Botanical Conservatory "Needs Assessment"
Representatives of the Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory attended a workshop with City staff and other stakeholders March 30, 2017, to discuss ideas for the future design build of the Conservatory and the growing greenhouses. Others in attendance included representatives from the Master Gardeners, EcoSuperior, Conservatory staff, CEDC and Roots to Harvest.
A drop-in Open House was held on May 10, 2017, at the DaVinci Centre, for the public to learn more and share views with City staff.
From the City of Thunder Bay webpage:
The Conservatory has been an important part of our City for the last 50 years. In the future, the City must replace the Conservatory buildings. This is an opportunity to investigate if there are other uses that should be incorporated into the space. Stay tuned for future public engagement sessions and information regarding future use and construction plans.
A drop-in Open House was held on May 10, 2017, at the DaVinci Centre, for the public to learn more and share views with City staff.
From the City of Thunder Bay webpage:
The Conservatory has been an important part of our City for the last 50 years. In the future, the City must replace the Conservatory buildings. This is an opportunity to investigate if there are other uses that should be incorporated into the space. Stay tuned for future public engagement sessions and information regarding future use and construction plans.
Pre-Budget Deputation to City Council November 1, 2017
The Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory made a presentation to City Council November 1, 2017.
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Good evening everyone, the Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory thank you for the opportunity to present this deputation to Council. We are here to request your support for renewal of the Centennial Botanical Conservatory.
Designed by Lord & Burnham, a renowned American greenhouse manufacturer, the Centennial Botanical Conservatory officially opened on November 18, 1967 for Canada’s 100th birthday and is deemed to be of historical significance. This year as we celebrate its 50th anniversary, it remains an important legacy bequeathed to us by a previous generation. The Conservatory is used by many local groups and individuals of all ages, abilities backgrounds, and economic levels. Daycare groups, schools and young mothers bring children. Seniors groups and community support workers visit with their clients. University and college students and those seeking a quiet spot after work stop by. Much has been written on the positive effects of plants and green space on stress reduction and improved mental health. The Conservatory is filled with beautiful plants from around the world and offers visitors a tropical respite even in the coldest of Northwestern Ontario winters. Since the Friends began holding public events in 2014, attendance at the Conservatory has increased dramatically. Our first event, An Afternoon in the Tropics, attracted 300 people of all ages on the coldest day of the year. We have partnered with local groups such as EcoSuperior, Science North, Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School, the Dutch Canadian Friendship Society, and the Master Gardeners. Our almost monthly events have significantly advanced public awareness and re-engaged the community in this heritage resource. Because of increased attendance, Conservatory management extended the hours of operation from what had been only 3 hours daily (1-4pm), to 6 hours daily (10am-4pm). During winter months hours further extended to 8 hours on Wednesdays to Sundays (12-8pm). This gave those who work and attend school the opportunity for evening visits (something that had been proposed in the early years of the Conservatory). All this without any increase in staffing levels. A people counter was also installed to better keep track of attendance. The Conservatory is an important Thunder Bay Tourist destination with the potential for growth if given adequate publicity. In his 2013 book, Garden Tourism, Dr. Richard W. Benfield stated “more people visit gardens in America than go to Disneyland and Disney World combined, and more visit gardens than visit Las Vegas annually, making garden tourism one the largest sectors in the tourism market”. From numbers shared with us we know that (continued) |
21,664 people visited the Conservatory from January to the end of August of this year. While we don't have current statistics on where those visitors came from, we do know that between August 30 and November 30 of last year, visitors included local citizens, people from nearby northern communities, from across Canada, a number of U.S. states, and countries as far away as the U.K. China, India, Brazil, Finland, Thailand, and Kazakhstan. Trip Advisor lists the Conservatory in the top ten things to do in Thunder Bay. We believe our active presence on social media (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) has positively influenced the Conservatory's growing popularity.
Written and verbal comments on the beauty and worth of the Conservatory are plentiful. However, we have also received many comments about its physical state. When it rains outside it also rains inside because the roof leaks. When CBC held its pop up morning show there, they had to move all of their equipment at the last minute because it was getting wet. Incredible energy savings could be had if the glass was upgraded to modern energy efficient glazing. The prolonged closure of the east and west wings is also disappointing visitors who can now only view the extensive collection in the cacti room from the doorway. The closed east wing, so popular in the past as the setting for local weddings and seasonal floral displays is a lost opportunity for educational programming and revenue generating activities. We are very appreciative of all the support given to us by the Conservatory staff and manager. Unfortunately staffing has recently been reduced by one full time position. Two student positions were also eliminated. A seasonal position was added but this does not make up the difference. The Conservatory’s staff complement is now 3 full-time staff members plus 5 seasonal workers. We cannot say enough about the dedication and hard work of the full-time and seasonal staff. They are responsible for the many beautiful outdoor plantings throughout the city, the ever-changing displays within the Conservatory as well as the maintenance and health of the Conservatory's valuable botanical collection. City Administration is in the midst of a needs assessment study on upgrading the Conservatory and its working greenhouses and we anxiously await the results of their report. In the meantime we ask that Council maintain adequate operating funds to keep the Conservatory fully staffed and commit to providing the needed capital funds for implementing the upgrades that will be recommended in the upcoming needs assessment report. We thank those members of Council who have supported our efforts in saving and promoting this treasure that contributes so much to the quality of life in our northern community. Thank you |
Conservatory awarded $100,000 FedNor funding through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program
An investment of $100,000 will enable the City of Thunder Bay to improve and expand the Centennial Botanical Conservatory. Opened in 1967, the Conservatory features exotic flowers, trees, shrubs and plants from around the world, and is a popular local attraction for schools, seniors, cultural groups, and wedding parties. The 50-year old facility is in need of structural repairs and FedNor’s funding will help with renovations, as well the widening of pathways to accommodate people with disabilities or mobility challenges.
- Government of Canada press release dated 2017-05-26
Don Rusnak, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay-Rainy River, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, made the announcement Friday, May 26, 2017 at the Conservatory. The FedNor funding was provided through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP 150) which is part of the Government of Canada’s coordinated approach to mark the 150th anniversary of Confederation.
- Government of Canada press release dated 2017-05-26
Don Rusnak, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay-Rainy River, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, made the announcement Friday, May 26, 2017 at the Conservatory. The FedNor funding was provided through the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program (CIP 150) which is part of the Government of Canada’s coordinated approach to mark the 150th anniversary of Confederation.
Letter from Kathleen Ott, Past Chair
Photo courtesy of Monika McNabb
It is with mixed emotions that I announce my resignation as Chairperson for the Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory. Over the past three years, the executive of the Friends group has made tremendous efforts to bring the Centennial Botanical Conservatory back to relevance, and I am extremely proud of whatever influence we may have had in making those changes a reality.
After three years, it is time to hand the reins over – my husband Werner and I will be relocating to Vernon BC - but I will continue, even from afar, to stand as Past Chair and to assist the incoming Co-Chairs, Sharon & Kevin Sidlar, in whatever way possible. The group will be in great hands under their leadership and I ask that all members continue to offer their support to Sharon and Kevin.
I want to thank the Executive members of the group for having the faith in me to allow me to represent them the past few years. Thanks to Mike Dixon, Karen Nadeau, Barb Edwards and the Conservatory staff for welcoming the Friends group - I consider myself blessed to have developed a great friendship with each of you. We can be proud of the positive and unique relationship we forged in the benefit of the Conservatory.
After three years, it is time to hand the reins over – my husband Werner and I will be relocating to Vernon BC - but I will continue, even from afar, to stand as Past Chair and to assist the incoming Co-Chairs, Sharon & Kevin Sidlar, in whatever way possible. The group will be in great hands under their leadership and I ask that all members continue to offer their support to Sharon and Kevin.
I want to thank the Executive members of the group for having the faith in me to allow me to represent them the past few years. Thanks to Mike Dixon, Karen Nadeau, Barb Edwards and the Conservatory staff for welcoming the Friends group - I consider myself blessed to have developed a great friendship with each of you. We can be proud of the positive and unique relationship we forged in the benefit of the Conservatory.
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I also want to thank City Council members for their support of the Conservatory, especially in the past year and a half. I hope that this positive relationship continues to flourish as we strive to make the Conservatory reach its potential.
A lot of the hard work has been done - but there is still so much more we can do for our beautiful Conservatory, and I look forward to seeing all the amazing things that can happen for this botanical gem! Going forward, I ask that you continue to support the Friends group. It has been a true pleasure to work with each of you for our collective love of Thunder Bay’s Conservatory. Kathleen Ott |
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The Loss of an Old Friend
This beautiful old hibiscus tree has long been a fixture in the Conservatory, bringing many seasons of beauty to visitors. On June 15, 2016, it toppled over and had to be removed. It will be missed.
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Thunder Bay City Council Awards The Conservatory’s Pollinator Gardens a Clean, Green & Beautiful Public Spaces Award
Karen Nadeau
From the City of Thunder Bay 2016 Clean, Green & Beautiful Awards page:
The Conservatory’s Pollinator Gardens support the strategic recommendations of the Thunder Bay + Area Food Strategy by increasing the physical presence of urban agriculture through visible demonstration sites and engaging citizens in urban agriculture activities.
The project includes the installation of four Pollinator Gardens with interpretive signage across the City including Hillcrest Park, Vickers Park, the International Friendship Gardens, and the Centennial Botanical Conservatory. The project also includes Honey Bee colonies at the Conservatory.
Bees are an essential part of our ecosystem and critical in pollinating fruits and vegetables. One third of the food we eat would be unavailable without bees. As honeybees face increasing threats from parasites, disease and pesticide use, safe bee-friendly spaces become ever more important for their survival.
Since the summer of 2014, visitors have been able to view functioning beehives set up on the west side of the Conservatory grounds. These hives contain young colonies just getting started and were placed by beekeepers Rudy and Lois Kuchta, members of the Thunder Bay Beekeepers Association.
The Conservatory’s Pollinator Gardens support the strategic recommendations of the Thunder Bay + Area Food Strategy by increasing the physical presence of urban agriculture through visible demonstration sites and engaging citizens in urban agriculture activities.
The project includes the installation of four Pollinator Gardens with interpretive signage across the City including Hillcrest Park, Vickers Park, the International Friendship Gardens, and the Centennial Botanical Conservatory. The project also includes Honey Bee colonies at the Conservatory.
Bees are an essential part of our ecosystem and critical in pollinating fruits and vegetables. One third of the food we eat would be unavailable without bees. As honeybees face increasing threats from parasites, disease and pesticide use, safe bee-friendly spaces become ever more important for their survival.
Since the summer of 2014, visitors have been able to view functioning beehives set up on the west side of the Conservatory grounds. These hives contain young colonies just getting started and were placed by beekeepers Rudy and Lois Kuchta, members of the Thunder Bay Beekeepers Association.
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Clean, Green & Beautiful 2016 Public Spaces Award
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One of four Pollinator Gardens installed by Conservatory staff across the City
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Bee hives placed by beekeepers Rudy and Lois Kuchta
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Friends Demonstration Straw Bale Community Garden "engaging citizens in urban agriculture activities"
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Our Conservatory Has Been Awarded One of 140 Dutch-Canadian Friendship Tulip Gardens to Blossom Across Canada
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Celebrating the 70th Anniversary of the first Dutch Gift of Tulips to Canadians
140 communities and organizations have been selected to receive a 70th Anniversary Dutch-Canadian Friendship Tulip Garden in celebration of the 70th Anniversary of the first gift of 100,000 Dutch tulips bulbs sent to Canadians in 1945 as a symbol of appreciation for the role Canadian soldiers played in the liberation of the Netherlands and the hospitality Canada provided to the Dutch Royal Family in Ottawa during WWII. A Canadian Garden Council Initiative Alexander Reford, President of the Canadian Garden Council said, “Selecting successful applicants was a difficult task for our jury as we received more than 400 applications for these special gardens, more than we ever expected. Gardens play a significant role in Canadian culture and heritage and we are delighted that these Friendship Gardens, each containing 700 red and white tulips and made possible thanks to the generous contribution of Vesey’s Bulbs of PEI, will be blooming across Canada in the spring of 2016.” The 140 gardens will be symbolically linked to a 70th Anniversary Dutch-Canadian Friendship Tulip Garden consisting of 7,000 red and white tulips, also donated by Vesey’s Bulbs, to be planted this fall in our nation’s capital by the National Capital Commission and showcased during the 2016 Canadian Tulip Festival. All 141 gardens will also be featured on the 2016 edition of Canada’s Garden Route. The Canadian Garden Council thanks Vesey’s Bulbs for their special gift and all those that made this program possible: Canada Post, National Capital Commission, Canadian Tulip Festival, Canadian Nursery Landscape Association, Garden Making Magazine, Chimpanzee, Baxter Travel Media, Enterprise Canada, Gardens BC, Québec Gardens’ Association and the Ontario Garden Tourism Coalition. |
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The Growing Greenhouses
Each spring hardworking Conservatory staff members raise bedding plants and assemble hanging floral displays in the greenhouses adjacent to the Conservatory. 130,000 plants were grown in 2013, mostly from seed, and over 100 large hanging baskets were planted up. The flowering baskets beautify most business districts in the City of Thunder Bay and the bedding plants decorate city parks, the fronts of the public libraries, fire halls and homes for the aged.
Photos courtesy of Kathleen Ott.
The Importance of the Growing Greenhouses to the Conservatory
We asked Mike Dixon (Supervisor of Forestry, Horticulture & Cemeteries with the City of Thunder Bay) why the Production Greenhouses are so important to the functioning of the Conservatory. This is part of his response:
Many plants that we grow for use out in the gardens require a different temperature and/or humidity throughout their germination to maturity. This is achieved currently using our homemade “brooder” to germinate seeds in a controlled environment. They are then moved out into the first house to be eventually transplanted into individual pots. Once they are transplanted, they are moved into gradually cooler environments in the other houses to harden them off so that they can survive being planted out in the gardens or the tropical house. Even though the cactus room or west wing is closed to the public, we still need to maintain this valuable collection. Cactus grow slow, flower infrequently and require special care. They periodically also need to be repotted or renewed through propagation methods. Again, they need to be cared for in an isolated environment before being returned to the west wing. Christmas cactus need to be placed in a cooler environment out of direct light in order for them to bloom, something that would be difficult without growing houses that are specific to their individual needs. Many of our plants that are focal points in the outside gardens cannot survive overwintering in our hostile Northwestern Ontario winters. These are plants that have garnered so many positive comments throughout the recent years and mark our parks gardens as unique. They require a cooler but not frozen environment and overwinter in our cooler grow house until they are ready to be transplanted again. Instant attraction in an otherwise bland garden. Our tropical plants sometimes require being isolated from the other plants due to an infestation, disease or damage. These plants are not easily replaced and often require special care to bring them back to health. Without a dedicated space that stops the disease or infestation from spreading, we would need to throw them out onto the compost pile. We save considerable money to the public by propagation methods of reproduction for many of our tropical plants. This is how we renew many of our displays in the tropical area, fill in areas that have been cleaned of dead/diseased plants or simply create seasonal displays that the public enjoys daily. I’ve attached a few pictures taken with my phone to give you an idea of what is out in the growing houses at any given time during the winter. These are plants that are going to be used in tropical house displays or special plants to be enjoyed in our Parks plantings. Mike Dixon R.P.F. City of Thunder Bay Supervisor of Forestry, Horticulture & Cemeteries Photos courtesy of Mike Dixon showing winter greenhouse production of tropical Conservatory plants prior to seeding of spring bedding plants.
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Community Straw Bale Garden
The Friends of the Thunder Bay Conservatory, in collaboration with the Conservatory Staff and the Master Gardeners created a Community Straw Bale Garden on the Conservatory grounds this season.
Kathleen Ott and Holly Rupert researched the process and "conditioned" the bales in advance of planting. On Sunday, June 14, 2015, the Friends celebrated GardenOntario Week by hosting a public demonstration of the process. With the help of participants, eighteen different varieties of seedlings, two types of bean seeds, white onion bulbs along with pansies and marigolds were planted in the bales. Our sincere thanks to Conservatory Staff, as well as Master Gardeners, Holly Rupert and Ralph Bullough, for their help and expertise. Please visit the Conservatory grounds throughout the summer to watch the progress of the Community Straw Bale Garden situated just west of the main building. Photos courtesy of Kathleen & Werner Ott and Monika McNabb.
For straw bale garden instruction sheet see below.
Honey Bees
Bees are an essential part of our ecosystem and critical in pollinating our fruits and vegetables. One third of the food we eat would be unavailable without bees. As honeybees face increasing threats from parasites, disease and pesticide use, safe bee-friendly spaces become ever more important for their survival.
Since the summer of 2014, visitors have been able to view functioning beehives set up on the west side of the Conservatory grounds, behind the Horticultural Society’s perennial garden. These hives contain young colonies just getting started and were placed by beekeepers Rudy and Lois Kuchta, members of the Thunder Bay Beekeepers Association. Additional perennial gardens and a new community garden this summer will hopefully keep the Conservatory bees happy, healthy and busy. Please note, honeybees are not aggressive by nature, and will not sting unless unduly provoked or they are protecting their hive from an intruder. Photos courtesy of Kathleen Ott and Allen Nunn
Alzheimer Society Forget-Me-Not Garden
As part of their Seeds of Hope Campaign, May 30, 2015, the Alzheimer Society of Thunder Bay, in partnership with the Centennial Botanical Conservatory, unveiled a Forget-Me-Not garden on the Conservatory grounds.
Photos courtesy of Allen and Sandy Nunn
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