(Cedar City, UT) - A new garden is taking root behind the Cedar City - Brian Head Visitor Center thanks to the co-operative efforts of several organizations. The garden is replacing the prevous weed infested landscape.

The demonstration garden showcases a water-wise environment utilizing the skills, talents and volunteer hours of the Native Plant Society, and the USU Master Gardner program. Various volunteers help maintain the garden, and according to Marguerite Smith, President of the Cedar City Chapter of the Native Plant Society, “This is a unique opportunity to see what your property can look like with a water-wise environment. None of these are difficult plants to grow in our home gardens," she said.

Partners in the garden include: The Cedar City - Brian Head Tourism Bureau, Utah State University Extension Office, USU Extension Master Gardner program, the Native Plant Society, Central Iron County Water Conservancy District and Iron County.

Maria Twitchell, Director of the Cedar City - Brian Head Tourism Bureau and Visitor Center said "The garden compliments the building and provides another reason for people to stop by the visitor center”. The tourism bureau works closely with many community partners and this garden is no exception. The tourism bureau donated the land and purchased the plants for the project.

Candace Schaible of the USU Extension and the Central Iron County Water Conservancy District designed the garden last fall during phase one of the demonstration garden. “It’s been a fun project of which to be a part," she said. "We’ve selected remarkable plants which I hope will give the community an appreciation for water conservation in the landscape.”

The garden can be accessed from the Visitor Center at 581 North Main Street or from the Coal Creek walking trail on the west side of Main Street before Memorial Grove. To volunteer to help in the garden contact: Marguerite Smith (435) 867-5487.