The city of Austin has announced that it will assume full management of the Zilker Botanical Garden starting October 1. Previously, the city’s role was limited to maintaining the grounds, while various garden clubs contributed to the care of the plants, trees, and ponds within the garden.
A statement from the Austin Parks and Recreation Department indicated that the conservancy, which has overseen the garden, voted last month not to renew its contract with the city. Consequently, as of October 1, the city will take back complete operational control of the garden.
“Drawing on decades of experience operating the facility, the department is well-positioned for a seamless transition back to full municipal management,” city officials stated. “Austin Parks and Recreation sincerely appreciates the Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy for its decade of support, leadership, and service to the community. The City will fully honor current Conservancy memberships and remains dedicated to continuing its essential partnership with the Austin Area Garden Council.”
In a now-deleted statement from the garden’s social media and website, the Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy expressed pride in its contributions but did not specify the reasons for ending its partnership with the city.
The transition is coinciding with the garden’s temporary closure for renovations and maintenance, which will last from October 1 until October 16.
The Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy has managed the gardens since at least 2015, taking over full operations in 2019. The garden, located at the edge of Zilker Park, spans 28 acres and features koi ponds, walking trails, native plants, and waterfalls.
For over 50 years, the city and the Austin Area Garden Council have maintained a public-private partnership regarding the gardens. In 2015, the AAGC established the Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy to enhance and co-fund operations and outreach. By 2019, the conservancy had assumed full responsibility for both financial and programming operations.
The nonprofit organization has provided educational programming, plant shows, sales, and various community activities, while also managing the gift shop and admissions.
Under the previous agreement, admission revenue was divided among the city, the conservancy, and for garden improvements. Specifically, 36% of the fees contributed to the city’s general fund, 20% was allocated for garden enhancements, and the remaining 44% supported the conservancy’s internal operations.
However, the conservancy has faced financial challenges in recent years, with reports indicating it operated at a deficit in both 2024 and 2025. In response, Parks and Recreation Director Jesús Aguirre proposed a revised pay-for-service model aimed at allowing the conservancy to concentrate on its core functions. Under this model, the city would provide a fixed annual payment to the conservancy for managing membership, marketing, and fundraising. Ultimately, the conservancy’s board chose not to renew the agreement.
