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

Native Plants Garden front yard

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.
Native Plants Garden


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.


Native Plants Garden flower front yardWater Conservation Resources

California Department of Water ResourcesConservation 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