Threat
Time is the threat to this magnificent and unique garden. Dr. Jim and Janice Gerdemann are 84 and 80 years old, respectively, and in declining health. Yachats area has become a popular residential area, and home sites are selling at premium prices. Upon their deaths, the Gerdemann garden could be subdivided into 5 or more residential lots. Unfortunately, their three children do not live nearby and will neither be able to maintain nor to keep the garden. If residential development occurs, Gerdemann Garden and its rare plants will be destroyed. Thus the Gerdemanns are seeking to establish an irrevocable easement to preserve access to the garden for the public's enjoyment and education. Even though no fees have ever been charged to visit this garden, a future consideration is to ask for donations and/or find a compatible nonprofit organization that would be able to help offset maintenance costs.
