Established in 1996, we are a volunteer organization promoting and supporting tree planting and care in Santa Margarita. We have operated under the 501 (c) 3 umbrella of the Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo County since 2002. Our efforts to revitalize Santa Margarita's community forest are supported by membership in the California ReLeaf Network. Santa Margarita (population ca. 1300) is a rural town situated along the central coast of California.

Our programs include tree planting and care as well as educational outreach. In cooperation with the Atascadero Unified School District, we have developed a demonstration forest/outdoor classroom near Santa Margarita School. Much of our time is now devoted to maintaining this site (check the calendar for details about monthly workdays) and making the most of the hands-on learning opportunities it provides.

Since 1997, SMCF volunteers have worked with local educators to provide Arbor Day and "Field Trip to the Forest" learning experiences for hundreds of local students. Other projects have included publication of "The Trees in Santa Margarita's Forest-Walking Tour Guide," establishment of a special book collection at the Santa Margarita Library, collaborative development of an "If these trees could talk...!" landscape history tour and story collection and participation in a variety of community environmental education events.

Beyond the Santa Margarita School Demonstration Forest and environmental education activities, we are involved with community tree planting and care projects. We continue to rally community support for implementation of a cost-effective, environmentally-friendly elm leaf beetle integrated pest management program. Elm leaf beetle, a serious problem here for many years here, has been the focus of various educational outreach activities, including bug walks, school/community group presentations, a volunteer pupae (PYOO-pee fun for kids!) patrol and the winter beetle hunt. As more of Santa Margarita's aging trees fall by the wayside and others show signs of neglect, these efforts become more important.

Current Project Leaders Beverly Gingg, Coordinator Andrew Von Dollen, Webmaster Matt Hudgins, Webmaster apprentice Sharon Drake, Secretary Elizabeth Church, Cal Poly intern Marguerite Costigan, DF artist/naturalist Simone Smith, landscape advisor Jack McCabe, tree advisor

In 2002, we were honored to be one of six community groups selected nationally to receive an AT&T "Champions of the Environment" Award. Additionally, we have thrice won the "Crowd Pleaser" award (1997,1998,2001) and have thrice won the coveted "Sweepstakes" trophy (1999,2000,2002) for our entries in the annual Days of the Dons parade.

There's no time like the present to get involved and make a difference in your community. Take a look at past issues of The Backyard Bee or the current e-newsletter to see what local "tree amigos" do for a good time. Check the Projects and Activities page to find out about current volunteer opportunities. Inquiries are welcome at info@smcf.org.