At this point, the San Lorenzo Valley remains rich with seeds transported by birds, mammals, and the wind. Natives will eventually make their way to you; your land will be their nursery. Knowing how to recognize the native, beneficial species, allows you to support their ideal growing conditions as well as move them around to best meet their needs and yours.
- It takes time. Here in the San Lorenzo Valley, a slow and gradual re-vegetation process with soil conditioning is easier than an extreme landscape makeover. To truly restore an area that has been overgrown with invasive species can take 3 years or more.
- All native habitats need regular monitoring. Knowing your land, walking the pathways and checking in with the native species you have nurtured is one of the most rewarding experiences of all!
- Land can be considered “restored” when no invasive species have been discovered for three consecutive years. However, this does not mean that “monitoring” should ever be stopped. Seeding in non-natives can still occur with visiting native fauna.
The San Lorenzo Valley Native Habitat Restoration Program integrates environmental and community needs to restore the riparian habitat and ensure the ongoing health and beauty of the watershed.
