The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden fosters the conservation of California's native plants through our gardens, scientific research, and education programs, and serves as a role model for sustainable action. Established in 1926, the Garden is one of the nation’s oldest native plant gardens and is renowned for its naturalistic landscapes.  Located in the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains, the Garden’s 78 acres of living collections feature more than 1,200 taxa of California native plants from all regions of the state. The Garden has helped safeguard 34 highly endangered plant species, imparted the value of plant and ecological conservation to thousands of visitors, and served as a critical resource for botanists worldwide. We are accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) as a living museum, certifying we maintain the highest standards of collections management, research and educational programs.

Education

Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Steve Windhager

Scot Pipkin

Melissa G. Patrino

Keith Nevison

Jill Freeland

Jaime Eschette

Diane Wondolowski

Diana H. Pereira

Denise Knapp

The Research and Conservation team at the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden focuses on the study, preservation, and restoration of California’s native plant species, particularly those that are rare or endangered. This team conducts scientific research, manages field programs, and oversees the Garden’s herbarium, ensuring the conservation of biodiverse ecosystems. They also engage in education and outreach initiatives to raise awareness about plant conservation, contributing significantly to habitat preservation and ecological research in California.

Research and Conservation

Operations and Support

Horticulture and Education

Research and Conservation

About

Team members