Research Projects:
THE GARDENS AT CALLAWAY
The Gardens at Callaway, opened in 1952, was originally conceived as a sanctuary for the native flora of the Southern Appalachians. Early concern with threatened plants focused on the preservation of Rhododendron prunifolium. Thousands of seedlings of this and other native azalea species were planted in the Gardens. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Trail is home to many of Georgia's protected plants including the critically endangered Torreya taxifolia. The mission of the trail is to showcase the diversity of native plants found in the three physiographic provinces of Georgia. This trail is also home to a longleaf pine-wiregrass community and pitcher plant bog. The Gardens also offers guests a variety of attractions that introduce them to various aspects of the wonders of nature. By visiting the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, the John A. Sibley Horticultural Center, the Callaway Brothers Azalea Garden, Mr. Cason's Vegetable Garden, and Overlook Garden in addition to numerous lakes and trails, guests have the opportunity to discover more about the living world.
The Preserve at Callaway is an extensive tract of piedmont forest managed by a separate Board of Trustees recruited from conservation organizations. The Preserve is actively seeking conservation easements on portions of the property to protect the land as greenspace for the future. One part of the mission of the Preserve is to create a model environmental education destination. With conservation strategies designed to protect this area's unique environment, the Preserve will demonstrate ecosystem restoration, sustainable forestry, watershed protection and habitat improvements for wildlife.
Together the Gardens and Preserve at Callaway offer a range of educational opportunities. Guests can see the Birds of Prey Show by EarthQuest with bald eagles and other raptors in free flight. Children and adults can learn about insects and snakes and other wildlife through programs and field trips. As a charter member of the Georgia Plant Conservation Alliance the Callaway horticulture and education departments have developed materials to help the public understand the plight of endangered plants in Georgia. Daily, the Gardens and Preserve contribute to Callaway's mission of environmental education and land stewardship.