Posted online by the Rhododendron Camellia and Magnolia Group - this worrying letter about a possible threat to the RSBG in Washington, USA.
Dear RCM Group Member,
The following message has just come in from Steve Hootman, Executive Director & Curator of the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden in the USA.
Dear friends and colleagues,
Most of you are familiar with the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden near Seattle in the USA. Recently, and without warning, the leased land upon which we have operated for the past forty years was purchased by a real estate development company. At this point we are unsure of our future and are working diligently to prepare for any contingency that might arise. I am asking those of you who have an interest in our garden or who might be friends of the garden or who simply do not want to see another outstanding collection lost for all time, to write a letter of support for the RSBG. These letters can be added to an overall packet of information and support that we are putting together for future use in persuading local politicians, possible donors, etc. that the preservation of the RSBG is vital to local and international communities as well as to scientists and horticulturists around the world. A simple paragraph or two would be great. Attached you will find a brief overview to help in the stimulation of ideas and thoughts. With thanks and best wishes for the New Year,
Steve Hootman
Executive Director & Curator, Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden
The collection established at the RSBG is important for all rhododendron enthusiasts, particularly in the post-Nagoya environment. We need to come to the garden's aid by impressing on the new owners just how vital this asset is worldwide. It has become an international resource which in today's world could never be replicated elsewhere.
The Group will be sending a detailed letter of support but we can all help as individuals. All Steve asks is that you send him an email stating your support for the garden and recognising its international botanical importance. Just imagine what we would be doing if the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh were under threat of becoming a housing estate.
If you would like to learn more about the RSBG before writing visit
http://rhodygarden.org/cms/ Most of all, this is not a plea for money but for our common cause in supporting all things Rhododendron.
Send your email to: steve@rhodygarden.org
