Flathead Valley Community College Foundation begins a week of summer tours Monday evening at Bibler Gardens.

Bibler garden tours to benefit FVCC

Scheduled from 5:30 to 7 p.m. through Friday, the tours explore four acres with ponds, waterfalls, fountains, sculptures and an arboretum.

The ponds feature rare waterfowl while a log stable houses a menagerie of miniature animals such as zebus (cattle), donkeys, sheep and goats.

Now at their peak, the gardens overflow with a wide varieties of perennials and annuals.

Created by the late Louis "Sam" Bibler, the estate gardens have been extensively renovated since he died five years ago. New additions include rock walls, bridges and about 500 perennials.

Depending on the weather, the college will display a variety of artwork in the garden or in the stable area. The works by community college students and instructors include paintings, sketches and pottery.

People participating in the tour will also view the Bibler home with its extensive collection of 18th and 19th century furnishings, art and Persian rugs.

Summer tour tickets cost $10 for adults and $3 for children. All proceeds go to benefit the foundation's scholarship program for students.

People interested in participating must buy tickets in advance at the college information desk or call Susan Dennis at 756-3963.