Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens (CMBG) announced today that it contributed $41.9 million to Maine’s economic growth in 2021, citing a new study by Stepwise Data Research. This includes more than $15.2 million in total earnings and 490 direct and indirect jobs. Within Lincoln County alone, CMBG supported $24.5 million in business output, $8.8 million in total earnings, and 310 total jobs.

The study: “Economic Contribution of Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens 2022” can be downloaded here.

“These findings show the immensely positive role Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens has played in the growth of tourism in Maine,” said Steve Lyons, Director, Maine Office of Tourism. “The continued innovations at the Gardens have contributed to both increased visitation to the Boothbay area, and the extension of that visitation into the shoulder seasons.”

 CMBG President and CEO Gretchen Ostherr noted that, “For fifteen years Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens has been working to inspire meaningful connections among people, plants, and nature. Now we are proud to be a leading economic catalyst for the state of Maine.”  

As New England’s largest botanical garden, CMBG has tripled its number of visitors since 2014 and had its largest visitor year in 2021, with 336,000 visitors. 

“Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens has emerged as one of Maine’s top tourism attractions. I commend them for creating exciting and innovative new installations that capture the awe of Maine people and visitors alike," said Governor Janet Mills.  “In an increasingly busy world, the Gardens offer us an opportunity to slow down and appreciate the natural world around us.”

Ostherr noted that her staff has been gratified by the extraordinary impact of the giant trolls and how effectively they bring sustainability to life for children and adults. “Most visitors come simply to experience the wondrous beauty of our gardens, but now we are seeing growing numbers of visitors who want to meet our five magnificent trolls. These Guardians of the Seeds and protectors of the trees are both a delight and an inspiration.”

Economic Driver for Maine

As CMBG rebounded from the impact of the pandemic, the organization’s capital expenses rose to a record $7.9M in 2021, the study noted. Amongst the new investments: a Native Butterfly and Moth House, A Native Bee Hub, and a return visit from The Caterpillar Lab in August.

The study also noted that the sharp growth in visitation and revenue at the Gardens was due to multiple factors, including “increased demand from the public for meaningful outdoor activities.” Other findings included:

·      CMBG has grown significantly since 2014, with much of that growth experienced between 2019-2021. 

·      Operational revenue has more than doubled since 2019 (+111%) and increased steadily even through the pandemic. 

·      In 2021, the organization received the most visitors in a single year (336,400 people) since its grand opening in 2007, in large part due to the arrival of the giant trolls. 

·      The largest component of CMBG’s economic contribution came from the regional spending of their visitors. 

·      Visitors came from all 50 U.S. states. Roughly three-quarters of visitors were from Maine. 

·      In addition to spending at CMBG itself, visitors spent an estimated $5.8M at Maine restaurants, $3.1M on lodging, $2.0M at retail stores, and $1.2M on other recreational activities. In total, the $15.2M of direct visitor spending contributed to earnings and jobs in the Maine economy across a multitude of sectors.

Future Impact Looks Strong

The study noted that CMBG aims to invest an additional $42.5 million in capital projects between 2022 and 2027 to support further increases in visitation. If these projections are realized, and if CMBG’s operating expenses and visitor spending patterns follow the same basic structure in 2027 as they do today, CMBG’s economic contribution to the Maine economy in 2027 will rise proportionately, supporting a total of at least 640 jobs and $19.9M in earnings.

As part of their longstanding partnership with L.L.Bean, CMBG is unveiling a chance to win a campout with the trolls. The promotion begins on July1, 2022, ends on 9/4/22, and offers families the chance to win an ultimate family campout at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, including an L.L.Bean camping prize package and a night hike tour of the giant trolls. No purchase is necessary to win, and the drawing is open to legal permanent residents of the 50 U.S. states & D.C.

·      Trolls Are Here to Stay

      The five giant trolls – a.k.a the Guardians of the Seeds – have taken up permanent residency and will stay for the duration of their lifespans. These magnificent works of art were constructed by internationally known recycled arts activist and artist, Thomas Dambo, and they have much wisdom and joy to share.

·      Treasure Hunt with the Trolls

     Now, visitors can visit each troll, find the hidden seeds, and win a prize at the end of your journey. You can meet each troll and learn about their special power:

o   Roskva -- is the strongest of the trolls and stands for the trunks.

o   Lilja – is youngest of the trolls and holds the scent of the flowers.

o   Birk -- is the wisest and most mysterious of the trolls and holds the roots.

o   Søren -- is a very curious troll and sticks up for the branches.

o   Gro -- is the wanderer and smiles with the leaves.

·      Kids Free Wednesdays

    Thanks to generous support from L.L.Bean, kids are free every Wednesday through July & August. (Reservation required.)

·      Visit Boothbay Harbor – it’s full of top-rated restaurants and accommodations, art galleries, a footbridge that spans the harbor; incredible locally owned shops; luxury yacht viewing, and more.

·       If you’re up for a scenic walk, check out the beautiful Boothbay Land Trust Trails.  (Try Ovens Mouth). 

·      Check out the Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce for a wide range of events. 

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens was started in 2007 as a grassroots effort that began as a casual conversation between friends and evolved into the largest botanical garden in New England. Come visit Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens this spring/summer - get your tickets today.

About Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

At nearly 325 acres, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is the largest public garden in New England. Voted Travelers’ Choice in 2021, the nationally recognized public garden is located in Boothbay, Maine. The mission of the Gardens is to inspire meaningful connections among people, plants, and nature through horticulture, education, and research. Visit MaineGardens.org or call (207) 633-8000.