Removing invasive species is often the first step in the stewardship process, but rebuilding habitat in some areas requires the additional step of bringing native species back via planting or spreading seed. The focus may be on a particular species, such as the milkweed at Mt. Burdell, or on restoring an area where few native plants remain, such as the redwood understory at recent project site Roy’s Redwoods. In these instances, having a local native plant nursery is an important tool for restoration success. 
Marin County Parks and OSD, which has a robust Vegetation Management program, established their Native Plant Nursery in San Rafael to support restoration of parks and Open Space Preserves throughout Marin. The Nursery Manager ensures that seed is collected near restoration sites to preserve local genetic variation and uses hygienic cultivation methods to avoid spreading disease, such as the pathogen which causes Sudden Oak Death (SOD).
Marin CNPS volunteers work at the nursery throughout the spring, summer, and fall to sow seeds, transplant and prune plants, and prepare for winter planting. In winter, as rain soaks into the soil, we work to plant out the young plants so carefully grown during the year. We also have opportunities to help with seed collection efforts at a variety of sites.
