
When the Native Seed Farm was first started in 2009, a total of 23 species were planted. Today, there are 43 species grown on the farm, including some rare native plants looking to come back strong in the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. After producing nearly 3,000 pounds of seed at its current location, the successful Irvine Ranch Conservancy project is moving to a new location, with potential to grow even more.
The Native Seed Farm has been able to be so productive thanks to thousands of hours of volunteer time donated by the community. The new location will be easier to access, and will be conveniently located on Jeffrey Road, just north of Portola Parkway. The new site will start at 12 acres and have room to expand, with improved infrastructure that will allow for even more community volunteers to participate.
Partners such as OC Parks, OC Waste and Recycling, Orange County Transportation Authority and City of Irvine provide funding for the farm as part of their habitat restoration projects managed by the Conservancy.
The regularly-scheduled Wednesday and Saturday farm volunteer events will be on hiatus through December as the new site is prepared for planting. Volunteer activities will resume in January, with many opportunities for the community to get involved in this exciting expansion. Watch www.LetsGoOutside.org and the “Let’s Go Outside!” newsletter for updates.