Fort Worth Botanic Garden | Botanical Research Institute of Texas, Inc.

About Us

Mission: The Botanical Research Institute of Texas (BRIT) conserves our natural heritage by deepening our knowledge of the plant world and achieving public understanding of the value plants bring to life.

BRIT is a nonprofit international research and education center that collects and safeguards plant specimens, studies and protects living plants, and teaches about the importance of conservation and biodiversity to the world. The institute provides a forum to convene conversations about critical environmental issues, and the value of sustaining our natural heritage through conservation of rare and endangered plants. BRIT seeks to forge collaborations between policymakers, community members, business leaders, political representatives, educators, and scientists to find solutions for a changing environment.

BRIT strives to inspire stewardship of the earth’s limited resources within the local and global community. The institute’s headquarters incorporates innovative energy- and water-conservation measures such as a living roof, solar panels, recycled building materials, and rain gardens. The US Green Building Council recognized the building’s sustainability with its most rigorous certification level, LEED Platinum.

It also serves as a resource for the families, teachers, and students engaged in BRIT’s multi-generational education programs. Students from preschool through high school participate in science experiences that spark a life-long love of the natural world and encourage careers in e-STEM (environmental-based science, technology, engineering, and math) fields. Meanwhile, gardeners, plant enthusiasts, and community members participate in BRIT classes, workshops, and events. BRIT programs lead the entire community to a greater understanding and appreciation of the value plants bring to life.