WELCOME
to the
Noyo Chapter
of the
American Rhododendron Society
A club devoted to Rhododendrons, based on the Mendocino Coast of California
Summer Break
After the Mini Show we take a break for the summer.
Hope to see you at our first meeting of the new year on September 23rd, 6p
First Presbyterian Church, Fort Bragg
Our September Meeting will feature a professional photographer helping us take great photos.
Mark your calendars!
About Us
We are the Noyo Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society (ARS). The ARS is an international organization devoted to Rhododendrons. The Noyo Chapter of the ARS has been a local non-profit organization for over 45 years on the Mendocino coast, based in Fort Bragg, California. We are a vibrant club with over 100 members and an annual Rhododendron Show. Our stated mission is to promote the study and culture of rhododendrons and to stimulate interest in rhododendrons by any appropriate means, including the holding of frequent meetings of members and education of the public with Rhododendron shows. Our locale is also of utmost importance in preserving the rhododendron species. Although these plants grow in many places in the world, they particularly thrive in the favorable climate of the Mendocino Coast. The area spanning Eureka to Fort Bragg is an important production center of new hybrid rhododendrons.
Meetings and Programs
Meetings for 2026-27 are held at the First Presbyterian Church in Fort Bragg, 6p. on the 4th Wednesday of the months of September, October, January, February, March, April and May. Join us for the first meeting of the year on September 23, 2026. The public is always welcome.
Special Events
Become a Member
We would love to have you join our club. Annual dues are reasonable and you get some nice benefits including a the national ARS magazine, our club newsletter (with expert seasonal advice) and 'members only' presale selections at our plant sales. Call our Membership Coordinator, Fran Steinhardt, at 707-357-1064 to learn all about the club and to become a member.
Rhododendron Show
Each year the Noyo Chapter holds a major Rhododendron Show at the Mendocino Coast Botanical Garden. The 2026 show was held on the weekend of May 2nd and 3rd, 2026, featuring over 700 entries! The 2027 Show will be held on May 1st and 2nd.
Volunteer !
We always need volunteers with events and projects. Whether you are a member or not a member (maybe you'd like to get to know us before joining or you would just like to help out..) please let us know if you'd like to help with events (like The Show and more). Email us (link at bottom of site) and tell us you'd like to help out...we'll contact you. Thanks!
The Board
MEET THE 2026-27 BOARD! The Board meets on Wednesday, one week prior to regular club meetings, at 1p. at the Farmhouse meeting room at the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. MEMBERS OF THE CLUB ARE ALWAYS WELCOME AT THE BOARD MEETINGS! The 2026-27 Board members are: Paul Beadleston Secretary Devon Billings Director Kathe Charters Treasurer Tom Charters Director Julee Estes Director Mary Gill President Dick Jones Director Dennis McKiver Past President Pat SeCoy Director Fran Steinhardt Vice President Geri West Director
Donate
Consider donating to the Noyo Chapter. Our budget is slim; we'll make good use of extra funds. If you are a member you can donate by adding funds to your annual membership, or at any time of the year, of course. If you are not a member but just love Rhododendrons, we'd love to have your support, too! Email us (link at bottom of site) so we can get in touch with you about your generosity.
