In the summer of 2001 Return of the Natives(RON) is initiating the effort to save the Moss Landing Marine Lab (MLML) Dunes from being overrun with invasive iceplant. By growing and transplanting native plants to the area and getting the community's help in eradicating the iceplant, RON and BLM hope to restore the biodiversity and natural aesthetics of the area. The restoration of native plants is important to save the dune habitat. For example, the Smith's Blue Butterfly, a threatened insect found only on the Bay area dunes, depends on Coast buckwheat and Seacliff buckwheat to survive. Without restoration of these plants the butterfly may become extinct. In summer 2001 the Weed Warriors, Summer Interns, and other RON staff go to the dunes weekly to pull iceplant, plant natives, and make sure that restoration sites are protected from regular beach traffic. RON, MLML, and War on Weeds (WOW) welcome volunteers from the community year-round to become informed and involved in the restoration process so that the dunes will continue to be a source of pride for the Central Coast.
*Endangered and Threatened Animals
*Endangered and Threatened Plants
Moss Landing Dunes Plant Inventory List
*Introduction and Information Takeaways Authored by M.A.O.S. Intern Katie Payne.
The urban market for native plants is poised to explode
