Unlike conventional landscapes that tend to set themselves apart from nature, The Collegian's landscape makes every effort to be a part of the natural landscape that belongs in Eugene, the upper Willamette Valley.

Like any natural landscape, it is continually evolving and changing. Over time, most of the site will develop into an attractive woodland with a rich understory of native shrubs including Thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus), Indian-Plum (Oemleria cerasiformis), and Vine Maple (Acer circinatum), and flowers such as Western Columbine (Aquilegia Formosa), tall Meadow Rue (Thalictrum), and Douglas Aster (Symphyotrichum Subspicatum).

The site's long-term health is ensured by taking advantage of nature's cycles to maintain site fertility, prevent weeds, and provide a biologically rich habitat. In order to protect our community's ground water, no fertilizer is used; instead, plant residues decompose on-site and return their nutrients to the soil. To encourage a wide variety of beneficial insects, birds, and other creatures, the use of pesticides is forbidden. And the site's native plants are adapted to the region's summer drought, so there is little need for water. We encourage everyone to stop by and enjoy as this landscape continues to develop. By making The Collegian’s surroundings more attractive to a host of Willamette Valley natives, from insects and birds to wildflowers and trees, they become more pleasant places for humans, too.

This fascinating landscape was developed and is maintained by Whitey Lueck, owner of a small horticultural consulting and landscape design business, focusing on plants native to the southern Willamette Valley. In addition, Mr. Lueck teaches at the University of Oregon Department of Landscape Architecture. His company Out-of-Doors offers small field classes to help students better understand The-World-Around-Us. Discussions cover the full range of natural sciences, from astronomy to zoology, and include human history and prehistory as well. Transportation is by van, savory meals are provided, and they usually camp out on public land.

For more information, please call Whitey Lueck, Landscape Consultant, at (541) 684-8716.

Dennis "Whitey" Lueck shows off the characteristics of sweetgum tree while leading a group of nature enthusiasts on a tour on the UO campus.

Brian Davies -- The Register-Guard