The following Web Resources are not a part of the Library eResources, but are freely available on the Internet. The resources listed were selected by Thousand Oaks librarians because they provide valuable information and are useful for researching the subjects.

Native Plant Garden – How to guides

• California Native Plants – Ventura County Planting Guide 
  This online brochure from Calscape.org lists native plants with advice about how much water they take to grow and maintain.

• California Plants
  This visual list of plant varieties from Calscape.org can help you to select plantings suited to your locale.
• California Garden Planner
  The Planner from Calscape walks you through a simple program to find plants that suit your area and garden style, including HOA friendly designs and waterwise designs.
• Ventura County Waterwise gardening
  The gardening Website includes information about plants and virtual tours of garden types.
• Master Gardeners of Ventura County
  The Master Gardeners of Ventura County has a home gardening hotline and free workshops.

Information and Seed Resources for Native Plants in this general area

• Theodore Payne Society
  This nonprofit organization located in Sun Valley maintains a California native plant garden, nursery, and online sales related to California Native Plants.  They also have classes and events.
• Conejo Botanic Garden
  Local Conejo Recreation and Parks District location off Gainsborough Rd. maintains various plantings and has regular plant sales.
• Native Milkweed resources
  Xerces Society information on sourcing and growing local milkweed to support Monarch Butterflies and other insects.

What is it? Sites to identify plants and insects

• CALFlora
  Plant information website which also has a plant identifier with photographs of plants to help you find plants you may have seen.
• Bug Guide
  Insect identification site that has a search feature as well as help with identification of uploaded photos.
• Butterfly Guide from Calscape.org
  The guide can help identify the butterflies your native plants attract.  This site has images of hundreds of California butterflies and moths.

Water Conservation Resources

California Department of Water Resources - Conservation tips

International Biochar Initiative – Biochar as organic mulch helps retain water in soil, helps prevent polluting ground water, and helps prevent global warming.

Metropolitan Water District – Learn more about water reserves, water saving tips and rebates, and the supply allocation plan.

Socal Water Smart – rebates, etc.

State Water Resources Control Board - Water Conservation Portal Resources

United States Environmental Protection Agency on water conservation