By Lynette Cox
Bernheim Forest and Arboretum is pleased to announce that Drew Combs has been promoted to Director of Horticulture and Sustainable Landscapes.
“Drew brings a deep passion for the care of our living collections. His commitment to a thriving arboretum is evident in his approach – from soil to canopy,” stated Rebecca Brady, Chief Operating Officer at Bernheim Forest and Arboretum. “We are grateful to have his leadership in support of our internationally recognized Level IV arboretum’s beauty and contribution to sustainable landscapes and conservation!”
Drew previously served as Horticulture Manager at Bernheim where he maintained Bernheim’s 600-acre Level IV Accredited Arboretum and supervised horticulture staff. Prior to joining Bernheim, he served as horticulture manager at Waterfront Botanical Gardens in Louisville, Ky., where he developed a long-term remediation plan for the former landfill that will benefit the garden for decades.
As Director of Horticulture and Sustainable Landscapes, Drew is responsible for curation and development of Bernheim’s living collections, including the nationally certified oak and magnolia collections. In addition to supervisory responsibilities, Drew leads landscape design and drives efforts to maintain soil health, conserve water, and promote sustainable gardening throughout Bernheim’s diverse landscapes.
“I am honored and excited to serve the plants, people and passions at Bernheim as Director of Horticulture and Sustainable Landscapes,” explained Drew Combs. “Much of my career has been spent in the world of Arboriculture, as a tree climber, a manager and as a specialist focusing on tree health and tree preservation from sapling to veteran. My career in Public Horticulture has helped me develop a strong concentration on foundational resilience in soil health, garden design, and public engagement.”
Combs continued, “Bernheim is a sacred place for me, and I’m honored to play a role in the stewardship and cultivation of this landscape. I look forward to working with fellow staff, volunteers, and members to help Bernheim continue to thrive and to connect our visitors with our nationally recognized Plant Collections and all the natural wonder that Bernheim provides.”
Drew is President of the Kentucky Arborist Association and an ISA Certified Arborist with Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ).
