Samantha Chaffin
News Editor
The bronze Bengal located on the quad near the Pond Student Union Building was the subject of a beautification project on campus over the summer that involved adding landscaping around the figure.
A student work project crew consisting of several students led by Idaho State University College of Arts & Letters Senator Benjamin Harker and supervised by Grounds Superintendent Chris Wagner spent a few days near the end of July working to create an aesthetically pleasing scene around the Bengal by landscaping and creating hills around the statue.
“The entire purpose of this [project] was with the students in mind,” said Harker. “[It aimed for] something not only beautiful to look at but a real, permanent monument to highlight ISU’s majesty, you know, this is great. It’s something everyone can be proud of.”
Harker added that “the lion’s share” of the work on this project was completed by the student crew.
The group chose to plant perennial plants, meaning the plants will regrow with little maintenance rather than needing to be replanted each year. There are also a variety of annuals in the mix to fill in space. According to Harker, the plants will take a few seasons to reach full maturity but will eventually grow and surround the Bengal, creating a jungle-like atmosphere.
“The layout of the bed was [Wagner’s] vision and what he had in mind,” said Harker. “You can see the rocks in the mix here that match the Student Union Building, for example.”
According to Sarah Hook, a landscape technician senior and the lead gardener and designer of the project, a lot of planning went into the landscaping. Plants were decided on and ordered back in December in order to have them grown and ready to be planted this summer.
Hook explained the use of mainly perennials in the landscaping around the Bengal will save a lot of money in upkeep and plant purchases, especially in the long run.
In the fall, the group will be adding bulbs such as tulips and lilies to the area. Hook said they are keeping with “ISU Pride” by sticking to an orange and black theme.
“I’m excited for it, this will be a good thing,” said Hook.
Harker also mentioned that now that the monument is complete, students should respect it and enjoy viewing it, but should not climb on or around it for safety reasons as well as damage prevention regarding the statue and landscaping.
According to Harker, the landscaping project was funded partially through ASISU funds and partially through Student Union funds.
“This project is just one of the things that proves what ISU students can do,” said Harker.
Maylynda Cooper was the artist who designed and created the bronze Bengal.
