New redwood-themed California license plate could be coming this year

An image of the new state park California license plate being proposed for sale at the DMV. An image of the new state park California license plate being proposed for sale at the DMV. Photo: ParksPlate/Courtesy Photo: ParksPlate/Courtesy Image 1 of / 39 Caption Close New redwood-themed California license plate could be coming this year 1 / 39 Back to Gallery

Those bored by the usual array of California license plates may be interested in a colorful new plate introduced by state environmental groups.

The new plate, which features California's famous redwood trees, will only be produced by the Department of Motor Vehicles if they get 7,500 pre-paid orders by May 18. As of Wednesday, a little over 1,000 plates have been pre-ordered. If the 7,500 threshold is not reached by May, residents who pre-ordered the plate will have their money refunded.

This plate was designed by Wyn Ericson, an artist and middle school teacher from Napa County. The design was chosen by a panel comprised of state park representatives, Save the Redwoods League, the Sempervirens Fund and the California Natural Resources Agency.

Proceeds raised by each plate would go toward funding restoration projects at 280 California state parks. California currently has 12 specialty plates which raise money for various causes. The popular whale-tail plate has raised $26.5 million for coastal conservation programs, reports the Mercury News.

The redwood commemorative plate costs $50 for the first year and $40 each year after. If you're interested in pre-ordering one, you can do so here.