EPCOT Cast Member Helps Shape Disney’s Trees and Landscapes
Cast Members at the Walt Disney World Resort are truly special and form a hard-working, passionate foundation behind the magic. Sometimes that magic is built, and sometimes it is grown.
One cast member has spent over 40 years making that happen and has made a huge impact in the parks.
Meet Gary
Disney
Meet Gary! This long-time cast member started as a gardener at EPCOT and now works as an Urban Forester, leading a team that cares for thousands of trees across the resort.
“I started because I liked being outside, working with plants,” Gary shared. “But over time, I realized the scale of what we do here is something you just don’t experience anywhere else. We’re caring for landscapes that support storytelling, guest comfort, and the overall experience. That’s something I’m incredibly proud of.”
Disney
Gary has played a role in many major Disney projects, including moving large trees and supporting immersive areas like Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
He has also supported every EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival since it began in 1994.
Disney
“At the time, no one imagined it would become what it is today,” Gary says. “Did I expect it to grow into this? No. Not at all. But every year, it gets better.”
His work focuses on the behind-the-scenes details that most guests never see. That includes crane operations, overnight installs, and large-scale topiary setups that bring the festival to life.
Protecting Landscapes
Disney
Gary also stresses the importance of protecting mature trees. His work reflects a core arboricultural belief that mature trees matter and protecting them requires effort, foresight, and patience.
“They provide shade, environmental benefits, and a sense of place you can’t get overnight,” he explains. “You can plant new trees, but the benefits of a mature tree are exponential. They’re the backbone of the landscape.”
The Future
Disney
Gary values his time with the Walt Disney Company and his experiences at EPCOT.
Today, he helps train the next generation of cast members, ensuring Disney’s landscapes remain strong for years to come.
Stay tuned and follow along with us at MickeyBlog to stay updated on this and all things Disney.
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Feature Photo: Disney
