In June, 2000, the Odessa Parks and Recreation Director began planning for the Memorial Park and Garden and included several civic organizations including the Permian Basin Master Gardeners. The Permian Basin Master Gardeners were asked to select plants that would demonstrate how it is possible to have beauty as well as tolerance to the west Texas weather and also be conservative of water.

The garden has evolved over the years and identification  stakes have been placed to educate visitors. Master Gardener Roger Corzine has chaired the committee since inception and the Master Gardeners continue to be involved in conjunction with the Odessa Parks and Recreation personnel.