Hermann Park Conservancy

Park Programs and Maintenance: The Conservancy's maintenance program assists the Houston Parks and Recreation Department with the ongoing upkeep of Hermann Park. Responsibilities include maintaining and cleaning the Park's greenspace, water features, and hardscapes, planting and watering trees, weeding, and enhancing the park grounds and amenities. The Conservancy solely manages the maintenance program for the 15-acre McGovern Centennial Gardens. Conservancy maintenance and horticulture staff keep the Gardens in top condition, ensuring that it is well tended throughout each season. Continued on Schedule O. The Cherie Flores Garden Pavilion and Celebration Garden, rental venues at McGovern Centennial Gardens, are available to host private events in an elegant urban garden setting. The Conservancy recently renovated the historic clubhouse known as Lott Hall as an additional rental venue. The volunteer program supports Conservancy staff throughout the Park and creates a connection between the Park and the community. Volunteers are involved with Park maintenance, horticulture activities as well as our urban land management program, which includes forestry, restoration and conservation efforts. The forestry program allows the Conservancy to protect our current tree canopy and also strategically plan for the future canopy to benefit the next generation of Houstonians. The Conservancy offers free educational programs throughout the year such as the Garden and Nature Series in the Family Garden as well as community special events including Run in the Park, Park to Port Bike Ride and the Kite Festival.

Visitor Services: Visitor Services directly manages and operates the Hermann Park Railroad, pedal boats, and Lott Family Carousel. Visitor Services also manages a variety of concessions subcontractors including the Conservancy gift shop, food trucks, food carts, a cafe, and a face painter/caricature art service. The Department is responsible for creating an exciting and memorable experience for Park visitors and keeping Lake Plaza operating efficiently and safely. The maintenance team is responsible for the cleaning and upkeep of Lake Plaza, in partnership with the Houston Parks and Recreation Department.