CWGS began in February 1983 when Denver Botanic Gardens’ aquatic horticulturist Joseph V. Tomocik invited interested students from his water lily class to help form a new society. Ten people stayed after the class—and soon discovered, after contacting horticultural organizations worldwide, that no water garden societies existed anywhere else.

By April 1983, members had written a constitution, formed committees, and held their first official meeting at Denver Botanic Gardens. Within the next few years, CWGS began appearing at major events such as the Garden’s Plant and Book Sale, launched annual garden and pond tours, and hosted plant sales featuring both tropical and hardy Nymphaea.

Members also began presenting seminars at local garden centers—expanding public awareness of water gardening throughout Colorado.

In the late 1980s and 1990s, CWGS strengthened its partnership with Denver Botanic Gardens through volunteer work and the creation of an endowment fund supporting the Gardens’ aquatic plant collections. Publications like Horticulture magazine highlighted CWGS, and in 1994 the Society received an International Award of Appreciation for its contributions to water gardening worldwide.

Today, CWGS continues to support community pond restoration projects, seasonal aquatic care at the Gardens, and educational outreach—carrying forward a legacy that began in 1983.