The last few years have been very difficult for non-profit organizations on Whidbey Island, especially those depending on the public donating their operating funds. The Meerkerk Gardens in Greenbank are no exception. We have had to lower our budgets severely and reduce our employees.

However, the board of directors and staff have been and remain dedicated to keeping the gardens open, groomed and manned with friendly attendants.

Thanks to all of our supporters, both formal Friends of Meerkerk and the public in general who visited and donated to the gardens’ operation, we are once again able to end our fiscal year with balanced books and no debt.

We are anxious to welcome everyone early this spring, when the hundreds of thousands of daffodils bloom, followed by our grand rhododendrons, then the summer flowers and finally the fall colored leaves.

In addition, don’t forget we have 43 acres of native forest containing three miles of hiking trails available for your enjoyment.

In an effort to encourage more of you to visit this special island asset in this still-tough economy, the board of directors has voted to lower the admission price to $5 for all, with children age 12 and under free.

Thank you all again. We hope to see you in 2012.

Donald H. Lee, president
Coupeville