The Illinois State University Horticulture Center announced on May 6 the launch of a fundraising campaign to support The Logarium, a new garden project that aims to promote sustainability, ecological education, and community involvement.
The initiative is focused on repurposing historic trees from the university’s Quad—some of which held the Fell Arboretum designation—by transforming them into nurse logs. These logs will form the foundation of a living ecosystem within The Logarium, allowing the trees’ environmental legacy to continue through hands-on learning opportunities and support for biodiversity.
In natural environments, fallen trees serve as “nurse logs,” providing habitats for insects, fungi, mosses, and small animals while also aiding in nutrient cycling and carbon storage. Jessica Chambers, director of the Illinois State University Horticulture Center, said: “The Logarium is about giving these trees a second life. It’s an opportunity to turn what was once removed into something that continues to teach, support biodiversity, and connect people with nature.”
To realize this vision, the center seeks to raise $30,000 for essential materials such as soil media, plant materials, mulch, signage, equipment, an art installation by Mischa Morales, and labor costs. “The Logarium was inspired by the ecological value of fallen trees and the opportunity to give them a second life. With support from Grounds and the artistry of Mischa Morales, we are transforming repurposed campus trees into a garden that will help students and the community better understand the role felled trees play in nature,” Chambers said.
All donations are tax-deductible with full proceeds supporting The Logarium’s development at Illinois State University. Once completed, it will serve as an educational resource for students and visitors alike.
The Illinois State Department of Agriculture supports community engagement through student activities and leadership opportunities in agriculture; it also utilizes its University Farm near Lexington for teaching and research involving crops and livestock; offers academic programs in agribusinesses like animal science or horticulture; emphasizes delivering premier educational experiences while sharing agricultural knowledge publicly; specializes in agricultural education research; all according to the official website.
