Los Jardines Botánicos de la Costa de Mendocino brillan a nivel nacional con la visita de la conferencia APGA

The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens (MCBG) recently welcomed over 50 public garden professionals from across North America and beyond as part of the American Public Gardens Association (APGA) annual conference. The event, which took place during a light June rain, highlighted the Gardens' role in advancing horticulture and education while strengthening awareness of Mendocino County as a destination for plant conservation and climate resilience.

The visit began on the Mendocino Coast, where visiting professionals experienced the Gardens firsthand. The tour continued through Anderson Valley with a stop at Husch Vineyards, where participants explored sustainable vineyard practices and watershed-focused land stewardship.

This immersive experience showcased the region's commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable agriculture.

Following the Mendocino County tour, eight MCBG staff members joined thousands of colleagues from across the continent at the 86th Annual APGA Conference in San Francisco. During the conference, staff visited leading institutions including the Gardens of Golden Gate Park, Filoli Historic House & Garden, and the Alcatraz Historic Gardens.

MCBG staff also presented on topics such as horticultural innovation, conservation, accessibility, and the evolving role of public gardens as community anchors.

The experience was made possible by the Molly Barker Development Fund, a staff enrichment fund supported by MCBG donors committed to professional growth and excellence in public horticulture. One staff member also received a competitive scholarship from APGA.

MCBG Executive Director Jaime Jensen emphasized the broader impact of the exchange: "Opportunities like this extend far beyond professional development. Our staff serves as ambassadors for the Mendocino Coast, and every connection helps introduce new audiences to the beauty, conservation work, and community spirit that define this region."

MCBG expressed gratitude to all hosts, partners, and colleagues who contributed to the exchange, as well as to APGA for organizing the conference and supporting scholarship opportunities. The staff returned to Fort Bragg with renewed inspiration, strengthened professional connections, and new ideas for the future.