For nearly 100 years Santa Barbara Botanic Garden (SBBG) has stood as an extraordinary resource for the state of California, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of California native plants through scientific research, conservation, education, and ornamental horticulture.

GCSB has a long history of funding and providing hands-on assistance to SBBG. In 2022, the Garden Club made a grant to the Garden’s Backcountry, a long-awaited and carefully planned experiential destination developed for families to connect with nature with the underlying belief that “we protect what we love” and the hope that these connections will encourage the next generation to become active participants in and stewards of our natural world. Under the capable leadership of honorary GCSB member Steve Windhager, the Backcountry project was successfully completed and is a favorite go-to spot at the Botanic Garden.

This year’s donation was made in response to major damage caused by the January 9, 2023 storm. On that day, Mission Creek overflowed into the garden’s Redwood, Canyon, and Backcountry sections. Most notably, the creek flowed over Mission Dam causing damage to a few of the metal safety railings on the dam; additionally, a large oak tree fell above the Lassiter Boulder. Our contribution allowed SBGC to complete the repair work and install new plantings.