The Only Organization Working Exclusively to Conserve and Restore
California's Native Grasslands
Welcome to the California Native Grasslands AssociationOur mission is to promote, preserve, and restore the diversity of California's native grasses and grassland ecosystems through education, advocacy, research, and stewardship. We work towards increasing public understanding and appreciation of the value of native grassland ecosystems. Learn more... |
Healthy, functioning grasslands are essential for human well-being, providing benefits that extend to local, regional, and global communities.
California grasslands are among the most important yet most endangered ecosystems in the United States. | Birds and insects that rely on grasslands are among the fastest declining species in North America. | Join us in protecting California's valuable grassland habitat. |
California native grasslands are diverse and vibrant ecosystems characterized by a variety of grasses, forbs (flowering herbaceous plants), and occasional shrubs. Picture wide expanses of rolling hills or flat plains covered in a mosaic of grass species, ranging from tall, swaying bunchgrasses like purple needlegrass (Nassella pulchra) to delicate tufts of California oatgrass (Danthonia californica). These grasses often sway gracefully in the breeze, creating a mesmerizing sea of green and gold. Intermingled among the grasses are an array of colorful forbs, such as California poppies (Eschscholzia californica), lupines (Lupinus spp.), and tidy tips (Layia platyglossa). These wildflowers splash the landscape with bursts of yellow, orange, purple, and blue, especially during the springtime when the grasslands come alive with blooms. Native grasslands are not only visually stunning but also serve as vital habitats for a variety of wildlife. Look closely, and you might spot the darting movements of California ground squirrels, the graceful flight of western meadowlarks, or the occasional swoop of a red-tailed hawk hunting for prey. The grasslands are not just a feast for the eyes; they also provide crucial ecosystem services, such as soil stabilization, carbon sequestration, and support for pollinators. These landscapes are a testament to California's natural beauty and the importance of preserving native ecosystems. |
Thank You to Our Corporate Members:
|
CNGA Supports Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice |