About Us
Nestled in the heart of Pine Mountain Club, the Lockhart Native Plant Garden (founded in 1999 by Michael White) is a living tribute to the vision and stewardship of Mary Ann and James “Jim” Lockhart, as a sanctuary for native plants, ecological education, and community connection. For over 15 years, the Lockharts lovingly tended the garden, guided Sierra Club hikes, and shared their deep knowledge of the Los Padres flora and its cultural significance to Indigenous communities like the Chumash and Yokuts. Today, the garden continues to thrive through dedicated volunteers who honor their legacy by preserving native species, offering educational programs, and cultivating a space where people of all ages can reconnect with the land. With over 40 species identified and ongoing restoration efforts, the Lockhart Garden is more than a botanical space—it is a celebration of place, resilience, and the healing power of nature.
The Benefits of a
Native Plant Garden
A native plant garden in Pine Mountain Club supports local wildlife, conserves water, prevents erosion, and fosters community connection through ecological education and place-based stewardship.
Supports Local Wildlife
Provides vital habitat and food sources for native birds, bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Conserves Water
Native plants are drought-tolerant and adapted to local conditions, reducing the need for irrigation.
Prevents Erosion
Deep-rooted native species help stabilize soil and protect the landscape from hillside runoff.
Cultivates Community & Education
Offers hands-on learning, volunteer opportunities, and a deeper connection to local ecology and Indigenous plant knowledge.
Get Involved in the Volunteer Program
Volunteering at the Lockhart Native Plant Garden is a meaningful way for adults to connect with nature, support local wildlife, and care for a space rooted in education, restoration, and community. Whether you're planting, weeding, or learning about native species, your time contributes directly to preserving the beauty and biodiversity of Pine Mountain Club.
We especially encourage local PMC residents to get involved. Your hands, heart, and presence help this beloved garden flourish—and ensure it remains a source of pride, learning, and inspiration for generations to come.
What We Do
At the Lockhart Native Plant Garden, we preserve and celebrate the native flora of Pine Mountain Club and the surrounding Los Padres National Forest. Through hands-on stewardship, community volunteer days, and ongoing plant identification, we maintain a living educational space that honors the ecological and cultural richness of this mountain region. Our work builds on the legacy of founders Ann and Jim Lockhart, who envisioned a space where native plants could thrive and inspire future generations.
Looking ahead, we hope to expand our educational programming, offer guided walks and interpretive signage, and partner with schools and local organizations to deepen community involvement. In collaboration with Books in the Woods, we are creating programs that connect literacy, environmental awareness, and ancestral knowledge for all ages. By restoring habitats, increasing biodiversity, and sharing traditional plant stories, we aim to cultivate not only a healthy garden—but a deeper connection between people and place.
