Biology student James Ott and Sustainable Energy & Environmental Coordinator Katy Mike Smaistrla with UMSL’s Sustainability Office pull weeds in the native gardens north of the Recreation Wellness Center last week. UMSL Sustainability received a grant last year and with the help of students last September planted 15 different varieties of native plants – more than 400 in total – in the native gardens. The plants prevent water run-off, improve air quality, help decrease pollution and preserve biodiversity. Ott designed the planting plan for the space.

This photograph was taken by UMSL photographer Derik Holtmann and is the latest to be featured in Eye on UMSL. View more UMSL photos by visiting the UMSL Flickr and Instagram accounts.