Boerner Botanical Garden Perimeter Fence

Milwaukee County Parks is excited to begin Phase One of a new project at Boerner Botanical Gardens that will help protect and enhance this beloved destination. As part of our long-term commitment to sustainability, beauty, and safety, we’re installing a temporary perimeter fence designed with care for both the Gardens and the community that cherishes them.

This new fence will help us reduce after-hours damage and vandalism, preserve the peaceful experience visitors expect, and support the health of our plant collections. Planning is also underway for a permanent fencing solution that balances aesthetics with function, including improved access points, walking paths, and site amenities.

As part of this project, we are also rerouting a portion of the Oak Leaf Trail, which maintains access to the rest of Whitnall Park. Clear signage and updated maps will help guide visitors through the new route. GIS Map of Reroute.

We appreciate the public’s support as we take this important step toward protecting one of Milwaukee County’s most treasured spaces.

Boerner Botanical Gardens Fence Project — Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee County Parks is beginning Phase One of a project to install a temporary perimeter fence at Boerner Botanical Gardens. This effort is part of a larger plan to protect and enhance the space for all who visit.

1. Why is a fence being installed around Boerner Botanical Gardens?
The fence is being added to help protect the Gardens from ongoing vandalism and after-hours trespassing. Incidents have included cut and stolen plants, damage to garden beds, unauthorized access to restricted areas, and even attempts to fish for koi in the ponds. These actions harm the Gardens and take time and resources away from care and maintenance.

2. Will the fence block access to the Gardens or surrounding park areas?
No. Boerner will remain open during regular public hours, and the surrounding areas of Whitnall Park will stay accessible. The fence is intended to protect the Gardens during closed hours and support a more peaceful experience. GIS Map of Reroute.

3. Is this a permanent fence?
No. This is a temporary installation as part of Phase One. Planning is underway for a permanent fence that will be thoughtfully designed to balance aesthetics and functionality. That plan may also include improvements like new access points, walking paths, and long-term site amenities.

4. How will the fence impact wildlife?
The fence is designed to help keep deer out of the Gardens, which will protect delicate plantings. Over time, this approach supports more humane and sustainable wildlife management practices.

5. Who made the decision to install the fence, and will the public have input on future phases?
Milwaukee County Parks initiated this project as part of our responsibility to preserve and protect our public spaces. The public input period is closed, and we are planning based on the input of public feedback collected.

6. Is there community support for this fence?

Between May and September 2024, the Parks Community Engagement team collected 406 survey responses. The survey was distributed in-person at Boerner's free day, two general admission days, and at four summer concert events. The survey was also distributed via local media and the Friends group. The public's input is reviewed by Parks staff and used to inform the next steps of the project. 53.4% said yes, they support, 35% said no, and 11.6% said they were unsure.

This project is endorsed by our partners, Friends of Boerner Botanical Gardens, Inc.

7. How is the fence being funded?

The temporary fence was not paid for through county funding, it was paid for through a third-party event and production company. The permanent fence planning is being funded through Milwaukee County. Installation of the fence will be funded through a capital fundraising campaign with the Friends of Boerner Botanical Gardens, Inc.

8. What is the timeline for this project?

Construction of the permanent fence is dependent on the capital fundraising campaign. Milwaukee County Parks will share the design and location of the fence once planning is completed.