The Brenton Arboretum: A Personal Story

That wasn’t the only issue. Our recently completed bridge, although plenty sturdy, would
not accept the heavy rush of water flowing under it during times of flooding. Water would flow
over the bridge, and although it might only happen for short periods of time, would wash out gravel
on top of the bridge and along the sides. We corrected this in 2011 by cementing the bridge’s
approaches and surface. We were learning that the west branch of Hickory Creek, which comes
from the north, bisects the arboretum from east to west, and drains about 1,400 acres, could be
extremely powerful at flood stage.
I was beginning to realize the scope (and cost) of what I had gotten myself into. I needed
someone to help manage the arboretum. I hired Andy Schmitz, who had just graduated with a
bachelor’s degree in horticulture from Iowa State University. He was from a large Waterloo family
and wanted, if possible, to stay in Iowa. This association proved exceedingly beneficial and
satisfying for Andy, the arboretum, and me. He continues to grow and prosper.
Now I had the time, the energy, a plan for the funding, and Andy with whom to work. I was
learning that Andy’s technical ability, work ethic, and commitment to the arboretum was a very
significant factor in our early successful evolution. I was very fortunate to have him. Everything
was now in place for the official grand opening of the arboretum.
Andy Schmitz, Tony Tyznik, and Buz Brenton pose by the newly installed sign.
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