In June of 1998, Philip M. Adams rendered a rough design of a botanical garden for his post-graduate thesis project. Months later, the George M. Adams family set aside about 20 acres for the creation of a botanical garden. This was the beginning of the conception of the Columbus Botanical Garden. In 1999, the Columbus City Council officially approved its development. From its’ founding in 1999, the Columbus Botanical Garden (CBG) has been a steward of a 20-acre rolling property located about 6 miles northeast of downtown Columbus (*property has now grown to 36 acres, 4 of which are developed with a 10-year plan for more development). This preserved jewel of pine and hardwood forest is a remnant reminder of the native central Georgia landscape that is becoming more scarce as the region continues to develop.