Garden Etiquette

Please share the following information with your students and chaperones:

1. We require a ration of eight students per adult or less, but encourage a ration of six students per adult. These numbers will help your students benefit more from their trip to Olbrich.

2. The entrance foyer is a public area and is not intended for use by large groups for extended periods of time. Please keep this in mind when planning your trip.

3. The beauty of the Outdoor Gardens and the Conservatory deserve your respect. The care and upkeep of Olbrich's plant and animal communities takes much time and effort of both staff and volunteers. Picking of plant flowers, collecting of any plant materials, handling the animals or otherwise disturbing the Outdoor Gardens or Conservatory is prohibited. This includes seeds, leaves and fruits, since plant parts are vital to the health and survival of these plants. Our "hands-off" policy applies to all areas of the Gardens.

4. No plant material may be brought into or removed from the Conservatory. This "tropical" ecosystem is very different from our Wisconsin ecosystems. Combining any components of the two may cause problems to either environment.

5. Running is prohibited in the Conservatory, Gardens or buildings. For your safety and for the protection of our plants and animals, please remain on the paths at all times.

6. Teachers and accompanying adult leaders are asked to maintain classroom-like discipline at all times. It is our responsibility to provide a pleasant atmosphere to all guests, therefore, staff and volunteers have the authority to ask uncooperative groups to leave.

7. Restrooms and water fountains are located in the foyer near the entrance. The Explorer Program takes about 1.5 hours to complete.

8. Please allow only four or fewer adult-supervised students in the Growing Gifts shop at any one time. Please plan time into your schedule if you plan on having the students visit the gift shop.

9. Picnic tables and a playground are found adjacent to the north parking lot of the Gardens. You may also picnic in Olbrich Park alongside the lake. Food is not allowed in the Gardens or Conservatory.

Thank you so much for sharing these guidelines with your group. We hope you enjoy your visit!