Vallecitos Water District

In May of 2024, the Vallecitos Water District in San Marcos, CA, installed a California Native Plant Seed Library, in partnership with the San Diego Audubon Society (now San Diego Bird Alliance( and the California Native Plant Society. What started with a shoestring budget, a repurposed vintage trunk, and a fun idea to engage with local residents, has blossomed into a gem for the community that has gained national attention.

By providing native California seeds in the library, residents can pick up seeds in a convenient location at no cost to increase biodiversity while reducing pesticide, fertilizer and water use. They are easy to grow, beautiful and beneficial to the migratory birds and butterflies as well as the many native creatures that call San Diego home. By removing some of the obstacles to planting California native plants, it’s a win-win for wildlife, water conservation, clean waterways, and the community!