California’s North Coast Showcased on the National Stage

This is a press release from the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens:

Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens (MCBG) recently welcomed more than 50 public garden professionals from across North America and beyond as part of the American Public Gardens Association (APGA) Annual Conference, showcasing Northern California’s spectacular North Coast and its leadership in conservation, horticulture, and environmental stewardship.

The week of learning and exchange began on the Mendocino Coast, where visiting professionals explored the Gardens during a light June rain. MCBG staff shared the Gardens’ internationally significant plant collections, coastal ecology, and mission-driven work, offering colleagues firsthand insight into how a nonprofit public garden advances conservation, education, and climate resilience along California’s rugged coastline.

The regional tour continued through Anderson Valley with a visit to Husch Vineyards, where participants learned about sustainable vineyard practices, watershed stewardship, and the interconnected landscapes that make Northern California a model for conservation-minded agriculture and tourism.

Following the Mendocino County tour, eight Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens staff members joined thousands of public garden professionals from across North America at the 86th Annual American Public Gardens Association Conference in San Francisco. While in the Bay Area, staff visited leading institutions including the Gardens of Golden Gate Park, Filoli Historic House & Garden, and the Alcatraz Historic Gardens. MCBG staff also presented at the conference on topics including horticultural innovation, conservation, accessibility, and the evolving role of public gardens as community anchors.

The experience was supported by the Molly Barker Development Fund, a staff enrichment fund made possible through the generosity of MCBG supporters who invest in professional growth and excellence in public horticulture. One MCBG staff member also received a competitive scholarship from APGA.

“Opportunities like this extend far beyond professional development,” said MCBG Executive Director Jaime Jensen. “Our staff serves as ambassadors for the North Coast, sharing the remarkable conservation work, natural beauty, and collaborative spirit that define this region. Every connection strengthens partnerships, sparks new ideas, and encourages future visitors to discover everything Northern California’s coast has to offer.”

MCBG extends sincere gratitude to the many hosts, partners, and colleagues who helped make the regional tour possible, as well as the American Public Gardens Association for organizing the conference and expanding access to professional development through scholarship opportunities.

Staff returned to Fort Bragg with strengthened professional relationships, fresh ideas, and renewed inspiration that will benefit both the Gardens and the communities they serve.