The California Native Plant Society (CNPS) is a statewide non-profit organization of amateurs and professionals with a common interest in California’s native plants. CNPS seek to increase understanding and appreciation of California’s native plants and to preserve them in their natural habitat through scientific activities, education, and conservation.

The statewide CNPS organization is broken into 35 regional chapters. The Santa Cruz County Chapter ranges from the Santa Cruz Mountains to Watsonville. Each chapter is independent but receives support and guidance form the State Office.