ReScape is a California nonprofit creating a landscaping industry that works hand in hand with nature. The organization, which began as the Bay-Friendly Landscaping & Gardening Coalition in 2009, supports individuals, public agencies, and companies to design flourishing ecosystems that deeply nurture the environment. “Conventional landscaping uses a lot of resources and focuses on looking pretty. It uses tools and practices which deplete the soil, as opposed to regenerate it and kill off insects and biodiversity,” says ReScape’s executive director, Milena Fiore. “Regeneration is always aware of how to nourish the landscape and capture water.” The organization, which has its own regenerative rating system, also pushes councillors and mayors to commit to holistic practices. From shaping policy to delivering hands-on training to landscape gardeners, design architects, and maintenance crews, Rescape produces thriving green spaces that go beyond sustainability and actively support the climate.
ReScape training landscaping professionals in San Francisco’s Cayuga Park.
The nonprofit, which has four employees, a portfolio of instructors and regenerative experts, and a board of directors, recognizes the need to clear work with communities rather than on their behalf. “We represent the diversity of the communities we work in,” Fiore says, explaining that it offers its training in Spanish and scholarship funding. In 2022, it redeveloped a community farm in San José that was repeatedly flooding owing to a failed bioswale. “Using local materials, we trained folks in its construction, and it’s been really successful,” says Fiore. “The farm is in an underserved area with food access issues. Some of their produce is sold at a weekly market, and some donated to people in need through food boxes.” It has also collaborated with students in Oakland to develop a school garden, using techniques including raised beds to counter the presence of toxins on the site. Since 2009, the nonprofit has trained more than 4,800 professionals and counts 14 California cities among those that have formally adopted its regenerative 8 Principles.
ReScape with Oakland high school students in a youth-led initiative.