The Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden is an amazing community treasure! Ten years ago a small group of volunteers came together with an idea for a small habitat restoration project which grew into a non-profit foundation, won approval and initial funding from the City Council, and has become a sustainable (both literally and metaphorically) gathering place for the region. So many of our local schoolchildren come out to the Garden with their classes to take advantage of the science curriculum and plant identification and even adult groups come to learn about the areas hydrology and the different riparian habitats found in the microclimates across the Santa Ynez Valley. I can't believe what started as a few small trees is now a forest that showcases the natural history of our area. The dedicated group of Board members and volunteers keep the Garden looking great and it is a vital part of the educational and emotional well being for everyone who visits. Come check it out today!
The Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden provides a quiet place of natural beauty and is open to anyone to visit. The Garden is continually evolving due to the efforts of local community members who volunteer their time and expertise to maintain and improve the plants and infrastructure, as well as to educate the public, especially our youth, about the natural history of this part of California.
This garden is the only one of its kind within about 50 miles, and its commitment to the community is exceptional. This is the product of just a few people having a great idea and turning it into a local treasure. The volunteers have worked hard to restore a sort of "wasteland" dumping ground next to a public park and make it an educational tool as well as a place of great enjoyment. Native plants, with interpretive signs, groomed paths, field trips for children, events for adults, all of it is a wonderful addition to the Santa Ynez Valley. And all of it with free admission, every time.