Site preparation for The Meadow included the removal of two over-mature hackberry trees. The trees, which had been badly damaged by successive storms, were removed by KSU Grounds Maintenance. While we are glad to have potential hazard trees removed, conscientious re-use of the hackberry wood is a priority. The hackberry limbs will be repurposed for the growing of shiitake mushrooms, sections of the trunks will be used as teaching tools, large segments of trunk will be used to create seating on site, and the sawdust from stump grinding will be used as a bulking medium for The Meadow seed mixes.
Hackberry trees, which are native to Kansas, are most often found growing along streams and rivers. According to Kansas City-area naturalist Catherine Bylinowski, hackberry wood is popularly known as “biscuit wood,” owing to early settlers recognition of its value for even-burning, cooking fires.
Most of the hackberry wood has been moved to the KSU Willow Lake Student Farm, for shiitake mushroom inoculation under the guidance of Dr. Rhonda Janke. Architecture students, Jake Hofeling and Landon Hubbard will use the APDesign shops to craft temporary seating from the largest hackberry logs. Look for these custom-designed additions to The Meadow soon!
All other trees on The Meadow site, which is a remnant of a larger, historic arboretum on the campus, will be maintained. These trees provide valuable shade for visitors to The Meadow and pedestrians using adjacent paths. The mosaic of shade to sun conditions created by the remaining trees allow The Meadow to feature a diverse mix of full sun to shade tolerant prairie plants.