The Oregon Garden Foundation (OGF) has resumed management of the 80-acre Oregon Garden property after 12 years of outsourcing those responsibilities, according to a release from the foundation.

Moonstone Garden Management previously managed the garden under contract. The California-based company defaulted on its financial obligations to The Oregon Garden, and the agreement was terminated. The 103-room Oregon Garden Resort will remain in service as a separate enterprise, and the garden will continue to partner with the City of Silverton, which owns the land.

The foundation is prioritizing its plans to recover from the financial losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Allison Pennell, development director of the OGF, is optimistic about the change and expects it will serve as an opportunity to bring back many community events for their visitors, following health and safety guidelines.

“Although there may be some slight changes and growing pains in the coming months, we anticipate this modification to visitors will be positive,” Pennell said. “We encourage guests to enjoy both properties when they visit Silverton, and show their support for the garden’s future by becoming members.”

The garden is a significant partner and regional tourist attraction for Marion County and the state at large. Visitors learn about Pacific Northwest ecology through the garden’s educational programs and visit the area for seasonal celebrations and entertaining events. Locally, the City of Silverton cools their effluent water supply through the garden’s wetland ponds, dually supplying irrigation water for the operation’s plant life.

Visit www.OregonGarden.org or call 503-874-8100 for more information.