California Prairie (grasslands) Matters!

State CNPS is starting a multi-year study to classify and map grasslands focusing on
Central Valley and Southern Coastal grasslands.

Three expected outcomes are:

• A better understanding of the distribution and abundance of native annuals in the grassland community
• A clearer definition of what is a native perennial grassland
• Identification of rare grassland types. It is an ambitious project but sorely needed because this vegetation type is one we know the least about and are losing at the fastest rate.

We are applying to various foundations to fund this project. Most foundations require matching funds. These can take many forms. For instance, Carol Witham’s volunteer time and that of the other experts can be counted toward matching funds. However, that is not nearly enough.

Our  Sacramento Valley Chapter CNPS Board affirmed that this is the kind of work for which CNPS is known -- solid science as a basis for conservation -- and that we wholeheartedly support it. We hope our contribution encourages other chapters to support this project as well. At our November  Board meeting, all 15 Board members voted to contribute $5,000! This is your Board working for the best interests of plants and habitat.