Chico Forestry Station and Nursery

The bronze and the register disagree about when the Board of Forestry let go, and the bronze is right. The first State Board of Forestry was legislated out of existence in 1893, and its property and experimental stations passed to the University of California's agricultural department; the register's 1903 does not match the state's own archive. The station opened in 1888 as the northern twin of Santa Monica's, testing exotic and native trees for the whole state. Plantings said to date from it stand along the World of Trees trail by the nature center in Bidwell Park.

What the plaque says

Chico Forestry Station and Nursery In 1888, the State Board of Forestry established an experimental forestry station and nursery, a companion to the Santa Monica station established in 1887. The two were the first such stations in the nation. Exotic and native trees were tested and produced for scientific and conservation purposes. The station was operated by the Board of Forestry until 1893. California Registered Historical Landmark No. 840-2 Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the California Division of Forestry and the City of Chico, May 25, 1972.

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Hooker Oak — 1.2 mi
• Rancho Chico and Bidwell Adobe — 2.0 mi
• Dogtown Nugget Discovery Site — 13 mi
• Site of First Posted Water Notice by Will S. Green — 13 mi