Schools for Botany/Biology?

<p>So I'm wondering if anyone knows any schools that are well known for Botany? Or even slightly known to have a decent program. I'm around 90% sure that's what I want to major in (Everything else I'm even remotely considering is a Biology concentration, so just schools well-known for biology are alright as well), but I'm having a really hard time finding out how the various botany programs are at different schools, probably because it's such a small field.</p>

<p>As for me, I am the top of my class with a 4.0 unweighted GPA. My ECs comprise of being the treasurer on ASB and working. I've never taken AP/Honors - my school doesn't offer them. I haven't taken the ACT/SAT yet. I live in Southern CA and am a White Roman Catholic.</p>

<p>No Ivy leagues, please! I already know I won't be able to get in (reading everyone's stats on this board is a serious blow to my self-esteem), not to mention I wouldn't be able to afford it. Public universities are preferred. I would like the schools to have plenty of nature reserves/state parks/open wilderness areas nearby, but that's not necessary. A great sense of community would be great as well. </p>

<p>Please and thank you!</p>

<p>Humboldt State should fit you rather well. It’s in a nice location and has an exceptionally strong botany program. UC Santa Cruz and UC Davis would also be well worth a look.</p>

<p>U Hawaii also has a very good botany program and arguably the best ethnobotany program in the country.</p>