New facility will advance plant science, conservation, and community connection

HUNTSVILLE, AL (February 12, 2026) – On February 24, 2026, at 10 a.m., Huntsville Botanical Garden (HBG) will officially break the ground for construction of the INTUITIVE Plant Science Complex (IPSC). The groundbreaking ceremony will celebrate the Garden’s growing commitment to discovery, stewardship and education as a result of help from community donors and supporters.

“The INTUITIVE Plant Science Complex represents a transformative step forward for Huntsville Botanical Garden and for our region,” said Sue Wagner, CEO of HBG. “This facility will allow us to deepen our work in plant science and conservation while creating meaningful, hands-on opportunities for learning, discovery, and connection. It’s an investment in the future of our environment, our community, and the generations who will be inspired here.”

This event will welcome city and county officials, donors, sponsors, board members, business leaders, and volunteers to witness the beginning of the next chapter in the Garden’s story of growth. Many donors from the local community recognized the need to revitalize the greenhouse infrastructure at HBG and made generous contributions; the funding goal for the IPSC was achieved in December after a significant gift from Intuitive Research and Technology Corporation (INTUITIVE).

“At INTUITIVE, we believe exploration and discovery happen both beyond our planet and within the ecosystems that surround us every day, like here in Alabama, the most biodiverse state in the nation,” said Harold Brewer, INTUITIVE Co-Founder and Chairman. “As part of our commitment to giving back to the communities where we live and work, we are proud to invest in initiatives that expand opportunity and inspire the next generation. The new INTUITIVE Plant Science Complex creates a space where students, scientists, and innovators can learn, collaborate, and continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible—from Earth to Mars.”

The IPSC will modernize and significantly expand the Garden’s plant science and conservation capabilities, transforming aging greenhouse infrastructure into a comprehensive hub for research, propagation, and education.

The multi-phase project will increase plant production capacity by more than 50 percent, add modern, climate-controlled greenhouses and propagation spaces, and introduce industry-standard workspaces designed to support botanical research, conservation, and collections stewardship.

These improvements will strengthen the Garden’s ability to care for its 118 acres and diverse plant collections, support educational programming, and enhance plant sales that directly fund the Garden’s mission efforts—positioning the Garden as a leading plant science and conservation stewardship resource for the region.

Groundbreaking Ceremony Details:

  • Date: Tuesday, February 24, 2026
  • Time: 10 a.m.
  • Location: On the service road entrance to the existing greenhouses at Huntsville Botanical Garden

Media Requests:

Media representatives interested in covering the event or interviewing key speakers may contact HBG Vice President of Communication and Guest Experience Laura McPhail at 256-830-4447 ext. 226 or at lmcphail@hsvbg.org.

For more information, about plant science, conservation, and horticulture at HBG, visit https://hsvbg.org/learn/plant-science/.  

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About Huntsville Botanical Garden  
Huntsville Botanical Garden is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that exists to connect people to plants in order to support a healthier quality of life for the region. Open year-round, the Garden contains diverse ecosystems to explore within its 118 acres. From grassy meadows to woodland paths, aquatic habitats to stunning floral collections, the Garden invites guests of all ages to discover the beauty and wonder of the natural environment. For more information, visit hsvbg.org.  

  

About Intuitive Research and Technology Corporation:
INTUITIVE® is an aerospace engineering and analysis firm that provides production support, software and systems engineering, programmatic support, product development, rapid prototyping, and technology management to government defense agencies, other State and Federal organizations, and commercial companies. Our approach couples the latest technology with engineering expertise, analytical proficiency, and keen managerial oversight. From design through production to sustainment, we proudly provide management and technical solutions throughout all phases of the system’s life cycle.