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ESE Institute Garden

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ESE Native Plant Garden Project

The ESE Institute and the Environmental Studies Club have been working together to install a native prairie graden at NIU. The intent of the garden is to demonstrate that native plants can be used in aesthetically pleasing ways. The Environmental Studies Club students will plan, plant, and maintain the garden.

If you would like to be involved with the garden please contact Melissa Burlingame at mburlingame@niu.edu.

 

Information for Potential Donors

  • Plot to be planned, planted, and maintained by Environmental Studies students.
  • Use in beautification of campus and for raising awareness of the Environmental Studies program and Sustainable Landscaping.
  • Seek partnership and sponsorship from regional landscape and horticultural companies.

Location & Plan

  • Adopt the raised bed along North Stevenson Drive located between Grant Towers and Stevenson Towers. The raised bed is located across the road from the West Lagoon.
  • Approximately 1,650 students live in Grant and Stevenson Towers. North Stevenson Drive is traveled by students, parents, and community members, making it a high profile location.
  • Fall 2012: prepare the raised bed for spring planting. Design the planting for maximum visual appeal using all Illinois native species. Spring 2013: plant the donated plugs and add mulch. Follow watering and weeding schedule. Fall 2013: collect seeds and prepare the bed for winter. Spring 2014: initial weeding and watering. Follow plan to collect seed and maintain bed.

Outstanding Needs

  • Funding for a trust account held by NIU Finance & Facilities for the small chance that this project will be neglected by the ESE Institute ($1,500).
  • Funding for educational displays about sustainable landscaping (500).
  • Gardening equipment: hose, shovels, spading fork, heavy-duty gloves
  • Mulch (over several seasons)

Sponsor Agreement

  • Sponsors will receive the following benefit based on contribution:
    • $25-$99: Name listed on Sponsor Page on ESE Institute website.
    • $100-$249: Name and small logo listed on Sponsor page on ESE Institute website; and mention in Quarterly newsletter.
    • $250-$499: Name and medium logo listed on Sponsor page on ESE Institute website; and logo and short business biography in Quarterly newsletter.
    • $500-$999: Name and large logo on Sponsor page on ESE Institute website; and highlight article in Quarterly newsletter.
    • $1,000+: All of the above and website banner on ESE Institute home page for 90 days.
    • Sponsors will get access to present their business plans to Environmental Studies students, who will also be a source of future interns and employees.
    • Sponsors will be listed in the educational display materials posted at the raised bed location.