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The ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Natural Areas offer a peaceful escape from the stressors of professional life and provide the chance to encounter unique wildlife native to Ohio. These benefits make the woods and creeks in and around the Oxford campus an indispensable resource for the wellbeing of the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University community and an impactful medium to learn about the natural world.

In the spirit of protecting and enriching such a valuable resource, the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Botanical Society (MUBS) joined Natural Areas System Field Manager, Nancy Feakes, in her efforts to mitigate the spread of Amur honeysuckle. This species of honeysuckle is invasive in many parts of the Midwestern and eastern United States; it competes with native plant species for nutrients and light. To the extent it has reduced native plant biodiversity, this is harmful to organisms in higher trophic levels.

Three students in the woods, wearing gloves and holding tools.MUBS has worked to remove Amur honeysuckle from the north bank of Collins Creek, allowing an unobstructed view of the water from the bike path and providing a chance for native plant species to thrive. Of course, this work takes time and persistence, as the members of MUBS learned from Nancy during our events over the last year. Because of this, we encourage anyone who has an appreciation for the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Natural Areas to join our remediation efforts. The process is rewarding and it’s a great way to spend an hour or two outside on the weekends!

If you are interested in getting involved with MUBS, join through or email the president.

By McKenna Oyer, President