Reclaimed Water Project

Botanica Launches Unprecedented Reclaimed Water Project

Reclaimed Water Project Leads the Way in Sustainability

In the heart of Wichita, Botanica has always been a place of beauty, learning, and inspiration. With 20 acres of vibrant gardens that change with the seasons, it’s a cherished space where nature and community come together. Now, Botanica is making headlines not just for its breathtaking displays—but for its leadership in environmental conservation. As Kansas continues to experience ongoing drought conditions, Botanica is launching a groundbreaking initiative: the Reclaimed Water Project.

This project isn’t just a response to a dry spell. It’s a bold, sustainability-first move that places Botanica at the forefront of eco-conscious innovation in Wichita. In collaboration with the City of Wichita, Botanica is now piloting an unprecedented initiative designed specifically for irrigation. Through this temporary yet high-impact solution, Botanica will conserve over 3 million gallons of water during the hottest 100 days of the year—all without relying on the city’s drinking water supply.

How It Works: Turning Waste into Resource

The reclaimed water used in this project comes from a unique source: testing operations at the City of Wichita’s new Water Treatment Plant. Rather than letting this non-potable water go to waste, it’s being redirected, stored on-site at Botanica, and used to keep the gardens flourishing through the summer. This water isn’t suitable for human consumption, but it’s perfectly safe for irrigating plants. And with a custom-built, high-capacity distribution system, Botanica will be able to irrigate its grounds just as effectively—only now with a much smaller environmental footprint.

As Dr. Lynette Zimmerman, Executive Director of Botanica, explains: “Leading with a sustainability-first mindset is an exciting step for Botanica. We're piloting sustainable practices that repurpose existing resources, reducing our environmental footprint and modeling conservation strategies that can be adopted across the region.”

Environmental and Economic Benefits

The benefits of the Reclaimed Water Project extend far beyond Botanica’s borders. By easing the demand on Wichita’s municipal water system, especially during a drought, this project contributes to a broader effort to safeguard resources for all residents. And with millions of gallons saved, the numbers speak for themselves.

Here are some of the key advantages of this initiative:

Water Conservation: More than 3 million gallons of water will be repurposed during the summer season alone.
Municipal Relief: Reduces pressure on Wichita’s drinking water supply at a time when conservation is critical.
Cost Savings: Tens of thousands of dollars in municipal water costs will be avoided—money that can be reinvested into education, programming, and garden enhancements.
Environmental Leadership: As the first project of its kind in Wichita, Botanica is setting a precedent for how public gardens and green spaces can adapt to environmental challenges.

A Model for Public-Private Partnership

None of this would be possible without the strength of Wichita’s collaborative spirit. The City of Wichita is providing the reclaimed water at no cost, and Botanica’s temporary infrastructure has been made possible through the support of individual donors and corporate partners who share the vision of a more sustainable future. This project is a shining example of how public-private partnerships can address today’s environmental challenges with creativity and urgency. By working together, government entities and community organizations can implement scalable solutions that protect both people and the planet.

Beyond Beauty: Stewardship in Action

Botanica has long been more than just a beautiful space—it’s a place of learning, discovery, and stewardship. Every flowerbed, sculpture, and winding pathway invites guests to reconnect with the natural world. And now, those same guests can feel proud knowing the gardens they love are thriving in a way that also protects the Earth. This initiative also deepens Botanica’s role as a leader in regional sustainability. It shows that environmental responsibility doesn’t require sacrificing quality or experience. In fact, through projects like this, Botanica can enhance its mission and inspire others to follow suit.

Looking Ahead

While this project is a temporary system, its potential impact is long-term. It serves as a test case for future reclaimed water systems not just at Botanica, but throughout Wichita and beyond. The hope is that other institutions—from parks and sports complexes to schools and office campuses—will be inspired by Botanica’s bold step and explore how reclaimed water might work in their operations. Botanica’s team will monitor and evaluate the system throughout its operation, collecting valuable data and insights that could help inform city-wide conservation strategies. In the meantime, guests can continue to stroll the gardens, attend seasonal events, and participate in educational programs—knowing that behind the scenes, Botanica is leading by example.

If you’d like to contribute to the project, consider a donation using the following link. We’re calling on 500 members to contribute $50 each to help fund the final phase of the project. “We’re asking our community to help us bloom smarter,” said Zimmerman. “Every gift gets us closer to a future where our gardens not only survive but thrive — for the next generation and beyond.”

Visit, Learn, and Grow with Us

At Botanica, everything we do is guided by our four pillars: Rooted in Community; Inspired by Art; Powered by Learning; and Grown through Cultivation. These values reflect our commitment to creating a welcoming space where nature, creativity, education, and growth come together to inspire and enrich every visitor’s experience. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, Botanica always offers something new.

With changing floral displays, immersive exhibits, and events for all ages, there’s no better place in Wichita to experience the wonder of nature. Now, you can also witness innovation in action as the Reclaimed Water Project quietly supports the gardens you love. As Kansas continues to face the challenges of drought, Botanica’s Reclaimed Water Project is a beacon of possibility. Through smart planning, meaningful collaboration, and a passion for sustainability, this initiative is paving the way for greener gardens and a more resilient community. And keep checking back—Botanica is committed to continued innovation, with more sustainable solutions on the horizon.

Come see what’s blooming at Botanica—and be part of a greener future.