November 3, 2025
The Campus Nursery is a collaborative effort between SHINE and NMU Grounds & Facilities to grow native, nativar, and cultivated native species to use in future landscaping projects on campus. Beginning as a series of student-ideated Green Fund initiatives, the Nursery lives behind NMU’s Central Receiving area, reviving the site of a former tree nursery from decades ago. Since its grand opening celebration on October 1st, 2024, as a part of Northern’s 125th anniversary celebration, the space has transformed significantly!
Earlier this summer, the Nursery expanded from just a few saplings to an abundance of thriving trees and shrubs, thanks to Ashlyn Albert and Grace Freed, two Native Plant Interns with SHINE. The last summer months have been focused on repairing and improving the deer fence that was installed last year, and further “rabbit-proofing” it to protect our precious growing plants. Between watering, weeding, and pruning, we have seen huge improvements in the health and appearance of these native species, and we can't wait to see how full and vibrant the Nursery will get in the seasons to come!
