Exploring the Future of Native Plants: Insights and Questions from the 2026 Conference

What was here? The 2026 California Native Plant Society conference posed this question and more over the three day event. In Riverside, experts, artists, activists, and enthusiasts gathered to share knowledge, raise new questions, and build connections that could help shape a more biodiverse future. The conference was a rich mix of science, culture, technology, and grassroots efforts, all focused on understanding and restoring native plant communities.

What Are We Restoring Back To?

One of the most thought-provoking themes came from Dr. Hugh Stafford’s plenary talk. He explored the indigenous and historical use of fire to maintain grasslands and the challenges of restoring these ecosystems today. His question, “What are we restoring back to?” highlights the complexity of restoration work. Grasslands once shaped by regular, controlled burns now face different environmental pressures and land uses. Restoration requires balancing historical knowledge with current realities, including climate change and urban development.

Dr. Stafford emphasized that restoration is not about recreating a fixed past but about fostering resilient ecosystems that can thrive in today’s conditions.

Rethinking Borders in Ecology

Chloe Novak’s presentation on the Amargosa River brought attention to the artificial borders that divide ecosystems. The river flows across the California-Nevada border, but political boundaries do not align with ecological ones. Novak asked, “What do made up borders even mean for whole system ecology restoration?” This question challenges us to think beyond state lines and jurisdictions when planning conservation efforts.

Effective restoration requires cooperation across borders to protect entire watersheds and habitats. It also calls for recognizing indigenous territories and their ecological knowledge, which often transcends modern political boundaries.

The Role of Urban Places in the Native Plant Movement

Urban areas are often overlooked in native plant conservation, but they can play a crucial role. The conference highlighted projects at places like the Audubon Center at Deb’s Park, Elephant Hill, and Eaton Canyon, showing how cities can support native plants and pollinators. Urban green spaces can serve as refuges for native species, connect fragmented habitats, and engage diverse communities in conservation.

These projects demonstrate that urban environments are not just obstacles but opportunities for the native plant movement. They encourage us to rethink how cities and nature coexist and how restoration can happen in unexpected places.

Are Plants Communicating?

Zoe Schlanger, author of The Light Eaters, brought a fascinating perspective on plant communication. Her talk raised the question, “Are the plants talking to each other?” Recent research shows that plants use chemical signals, root networks, and even fungi to share information and support each other.

Understanding these interactions can transform how we approach restoration and conservation. It suggests that plants are part of complex communities that rely on cooperation, not just competition. This insight encourages restoration efforts to focus on whole ecosystems rather than individual species.

Moving From Doom and Gloom to Do and Bloom

Jose G Gonzalez of Latino Outdoors delivered a keynote that challenged the often negative narrative around environmental issues. He asked, “How do we go from doom and gloom to do and bloom?” His message was clear: hope and action must go hand in hand.

Gonzalez invited attendees to imagine themselves as a meadow ecology rather than a machine. This metaphor captures the idea of growth, diversity, and resilience. It encourages a mindset of nurturing and creativity, rather than fear and paralysis.

New Technologies and Grassroots Efforts

The conference also showcased new technologies that help track where native plants are growing. These tools improve data collection and monitoring, making restoration more precise and effective. At the same time, grassroots efforts remain vital. Organizations like Golden State Naturalist, Western Water Girl, Little Rain, and State of the have demonstrated how community involvement drives real change.

These projects combine science, art, and activism to raise awareness and protect native plants. They remind us that everyone can contribute, whether through citizen science, education, or hands-on restoration.

Fire Ecology

Fire ecology was a recurring topic, reflecting its importance in California’s landscapes. Controlled burns and fire management are essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems and preventing catastrophic wildfires. The conference explored how fire interacts with native plants and how restoration can incorporate traditional fire knowledge.

Farmland Restoration

Farmland restoration also featured prominently. Restoring native plants on agricultural lands can improve soil health, support pollinators, and increase biodiversity. These efforts show that conservation and agriculture can work together for mutual benefit.

Research and Community Collaboration

The conference bridged the gap between research journals and grassroots efforts. Scientists shared the latest findings, while community groups demonstrated practical applications. This collaboration is crucial for effective restoration and conservation.

By combining rigorous science with local knowledge and passion, the native plant movement can grow stronger and more inclusive. It also helps ensure that restoration projects are grounded in both evidence and community needs.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 California Native Plant Society conference was more than a gathering of experts; it was a space for curiosity, connection, and inspiration. The questions raised—about restoration goals, borders, urban roles, plant communication, and hope—reflect the complexity and promise of the native plant movement.

As we move forward, it’s clear that restoration is not about returning to a fixed past but about building resilient ecosystems that support biodiversity and human communities. It requires cooperation across borders, integration of new technologies, and active involvement from diverse groups.