City of Santa Barbara seeking volunteers for annual rose pruning at Mission Historical Park

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - A January tradition for almost 40 years, volunteers are invited to spend the morning on Saturday, January 13, at the Mission Historical Park to prune the one-acre garden for spring growth.

The Parks and Recreation Department is seeking up to 150 volunteers for the 2024 event.

Volunteers are welcome to drop in at any time during the four-hour event. 

No special experience is required to volunteer.

Pruning demonstrations will be provided by Santa Barbara Rose Society member and resident rosarian Dan Bifano.

Volunteers are asked to bring their own gloves and tools, including hand pruners, loppers, and small handsaws, but a limited supply will be available.

Parks and Recreation staff will be onsite to help sharpen and sanitize tools as needed.

Sturdy clothes, including long sleeves and pants, and sun protection are recommended.

In the event of rain, the volunteer day will be moved to the following Saturday, January 20. 

RSVPs are not required.

Questions regarding the event or additional volunteer opportunities may be directed to the Parks Division at 805-564-5433.