The Bloedel Reserve, an elegant garden and historic residence on the north end of Bainbridge Island, has a new head of household.

Horticulturist and nonprofit executive Evan Meyer will join the Reserve as president and CEO starting in October. Meyer replaces longtime CEO Ed Moydell, who left last month.

“Evan stood out amongst all the candidates for his passion of horticulture, entrepreneurial approach, and experience with program development. He understands the potential for nature to be a healing experience and the need for our culture to reconnect with the natural environment,” said Nate Thomas, leader of the Bloedel board of trustees.

A lifelong botanist, Meyer studied plant biology at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. He held roles at the Native Plant Trust, the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard, the Harvard Herbaria and the UCLA Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden. Meyer became executive director of the Thomas Payne Foundation in 2020, during which time the foundation’s income doubled.

“I believe that I am in the perfect place in my career to lead Bloedel Reserve. I have deep roots in the public garden, community engagement, and plant science fields, coupled with a proven track record of success in nonprofit leadership, financial management and growth, high-level communications, and implementation of strategic vision,” Meyer said.