Felton Discovery Park
Park Features
This unique County park was designed to promote environmental literacy through its design and through programs offered by County parks and the Santa Cruz Public Libraries.
- Pollinator garden and riparian plant walkway
- Natural play areas to engage children in climbing and exploration
- Interpretive signs on pollinators, watershed, riparian zones, and restoring fire’s natural role
- A “human sundial” to intrigue and inform
- Musical instruments to play together
- Watershed displays to promote conservation and environmental action
- Gathering area for storytimes and environmental literacy programs
- Benches and paths for strolling, conversation, and relaxing

Riparian Restoration, Pollinator and Native Plant Gardens
In 2016 the non-profit Nature Explore was engaged by Felton Library Friends to explore utilizing the north side of Bull Creek for outdoor discovery. Working with key county officials, preliminary plans were developed that laid the groundwork for next steps. In 2018 BASE Landscape Architecture was chosen by Santa Cruz County Parks to further develop plans for the north side of Bull Creek with an emphasis on riparian, native and pollinator plants.
The first phase of riparian restoration began in 2018 and included extensive removal of invasive species such as Himalayan blackberry hybrid, vinca, ivy, and Scotch broom. Crews from the California Conservation Corps and Americorps were invaluable during this two year period.
Plans and activities are now underway to continue restoration in the riparian area and to maintain the pollinator and native gardens using a team of community volunteers. The park will serve as a model and teaching site for students, volunteers, and residents interested in learning about protecting and preserving our natural world, and how to include native plants in home landscapes. To volunteer in the park, click here.
Articles
Park Plant of the Month: Toyon
If you have been out walking in oak or mixed evergreen woodlands this fall, you may have noticed this multi-stemmed evergreen shrub with a resplendent display of red berries and dark green leathery leaves. Although it could be mistaken for Pyracantha, or even English...
read moreWhat will the Nature Discovery Park offer that can’t be found in other nearby parks?
This unique County park will be designed to promote environmental literacy through its design and through programs offered by County Parks and Library self-directed outside learning will be promoted with interpretive signs on park elements such as native and...
read moreWhat kinds of programs will be offered by County Parks and the Library?
County Parks topics could include birds, native plants, and nature crafts.Library programs could include homework help, storytime, book groups, presentations on various topics, and crafts. Community groups and individuals will be invited to make...
read moreWho designed the new park?
The Nature Discovery Park was designed by BASE Landscape Architecture, a San Francisco firm devoted to green design, sustainability, resource conservation, and public participation. Visit their website atbaselandscape.com.
read moreBeyond the Walls: Felton Library Continues Outdoors
Jim Mosher, member of the Felton Library Friends Steering Committee, explains the work planned for the park and environmental restoration work planned for the land around the library. (The sounds isn't great on this video, so we've included a transcript after the...
read moreRestoration Talk and Walk with Linda Skeff
Felton Library Friends Restoration Team members visited Linda Skeff’s house to understand best methods for removing invasive English ivy and restoring the beauty and health of the native redwood forest. Linda restored the ivy ensnared forest around her home to a place...
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