Saanich Native Plant Salvage Program

We rescue native plants that could be lost. We salvage them from development sites.

• These plants are then used locally in both private and public restoration projects.
• The program benefits the entire community.
• The plants cannot be sold.
• Read more about the program in our brochure.

Garry Oak Ecosystems Recovery Team (GOERT)

This group is dedicated to the recovery of Garry Oak ecosystems in Canada. Their work also supports the species that inhabit these ecosystems.

• Visit the GOERT website.
• Read The Garry Oak Gardener’s Handbook.
• Learn Where to Buy Native Plants.

Naturescape British Columbia

Learn how to restore, preserve, and enhance wildlife habitat in the urban and rural landscapes of B.C.

• Visit the Naturescape website.
• Find Native Plants for the Home Garden - South Coastal BC 
• Learn how to build bird and bat houses appropriate to our region — The Stewardship Series: Caring for Wildlife Habitat at Home

Habitat Acquisition Trust

Habitat Acquisition Trust is a non-profit regional land trust. Their mission is to conserve natural environments on southern Vancouver Island and the southern Gulf Islands.

• Visit the Habitat Acquisition Trust website.
• Read the Gardening with Native Plants brochure.
• Find a nursery list, recommended demonstration gardens, garden designs, websites, books and more in the Gardening With Native Plants Guide.

Native Plant Study Group

This group studies the native plants of B.C. and promotes their use and conservation. They are an affiliate chapter of the Native Plant Society of British Columbia.

• Meet the Native Plant Study Group

E-flora BC

This is a comprehensive atlas of the plants of British Columbia. It includes photos and descriptions.

• Discover E-flora BC

Organic Land Care Courses

Our region has several programs and colleges that offer courses and certificates in organic land care.

Society for Organic Urban Land Care (SOUL)

The society was formed in response to the growing need for ecologically responsible land care practices. Their mission is to promote and support organic practices in the community through education, certification, and standardization.

• Visit SOUL.

Gaia College

This school offers courses in the design, installation, and maintenance of landscapes that promote and preserve environmental health. They partner with professional associations, public educational institutions, community organizations, and private corporations.

• Learn more about Gaia College.

Naturescape British Columbia

Learn how to restore, preserve and enhance wildlife habitat in urban and rural landscapes of BC.

Pacific Horticulture College

This school offers a Landscape Horticulture Certificate and Master Gardener Programs. Both are accredited. They also have community education short courses. These focus on improving garden productivity and enhancing community understanding of environmentally responsible practises.

• Learn more about Pacific Horticulture College.