Inside Iowa State: Iowa State University

November 21, 2003

Reiman Gardens remain open after flood

by Annette Hacker
Reiman Gardens sustained thousands of dollars in flood damage Nov. 16, following breaks in the city water main.

Water poured into the southwest end of the facility, leaving gardens flooded, walking paths washed out, Marge Hunziker House filled with standing water, and "Lake Helen" pond clouded with mulch, soil and silt.

Despite the harm to the southwest part of the garden, Reiman Gardens remained open. All of the garden's holiday events will go on as planned.

"Full cleanup and repair depends upon the weather, materials available and staff available, but we hope to get this done before the ground freezes," said director Teresa McLaughlin. She said indoor areas of the gardens that visitors use this time of year were not affected by the floodwater.

Reiman Gardens recently reduced its annual budget by $110,000, due to cuts in state funding to ISU and decreased fund-raising revenue.

The gardens are insured, although the policy carries a $10,000 deductible.