Bette Boatmun Conservation Garden

The Bette Boatmun Conservation Garden is a living example of diverse and colorful landscaping that is water efficient. Contra Costa Water District established this garden during a drought in 1991 by replacing nearly one acre of lawn with water-wise plants appropriate for the climate in Contra Costa County.

Located at our District Center in Concord, the garden now displays more than 100 varieties of ground covers, perennials, shrubs, and trees. Visitors can meander along the pathways to view native and non-native plants, as well as a butterfly garden that attracts local butterflies and pollinators, all while thriving on much less water than a typical lawn would need.

View of garden at our District Center in Concord

District Center - Bette Boatmun Garden

Director Bette Boatmun  

Bette Boatmun joined the CCWD Board of Directors on July 31, 1974, and tirelessly represented our community on water issues, locally and statewide. Throughout her tenure on the Board, she served as President of the Board of Directors from 1990 to 1992, and Vice President from 1981 to 1989.

In 2014, the CCWD Board of Directors named this garden after Director Boatmun in recognition of her 40 years of service and her ongoing commitment to water conservation. Upon her retirement in 2020, CCWD added a butterfly garden to commemorate Director Boatmun’s 46 years of service on the Board.

Water-Wise Plants in the Garden

Below are some of the plants you'll find in bloom at the garden, as well as plant lists for the main garden and butterfly garden. We invite you to visit the garden in person and enjoy the splendor of these water-wise plants. Contact our Water Efficiency Staff at 925-688-8320 or conserve@ccwater.com with questions.

Director Bette Boatmun

Bette Boatmun, Director, Division 4

Little John Bottlebrush

Little John Bottlebrush

Wayne Roderick Seaside Daisy

Wayne Roderick Seaside Daisy

Dusty Miller

Dusty Miller