Jepson Wildflowers

Jepson Prairie

Located in the lower Sacramento Valley, Jepson Prairie is an island of remnant natural prairie in a vast agricultural landscape. The reserve protects several seasonal playa lakes and one of the best remaining networks of clay-pan vernal-pool habitat in the Central Valley.  Jepson Prairie also protects remnants of native forb and bunchgrass prairie. The reserve provides wetland habitat for migratory waterfowl and wading birds, and is home to 5 rare and endangered animals.  Altogether over 400 species and 64 families of plants, including 15 rare and endangered plants, are found on site. The reserve land is managed in partnership with the Solano Land Trust -  which owns the property - the Nature Conservancy, and an active docents groupUC Davis Natural Reserve System manages the research and education.

The Jepson Prairie Docents provide wildflower and natural history tours each spring. See the tour page for details.

Researchers and class groups are encouraged to use the site; please see application process guidelines.

The information in the Natural History section of this website is a summary of the more detailed and extensive content of the Jepson Prairie Preserve Handbook. This handbook can be purchased from the California Native Plant Society, or in person from docents if you attend a Jepson Prairie tour.