ScholarWorks@UNO

Pocket Parks and Student Murals

The Office of Research collaborated with Fine Arts students for a public-art initiative raising awareness about the devastating effects of climate change on local bird populations. Murals were painted around specific areas on campus that were then transformed into pocket parks full of native plants. These beautification projects are part of the Audubon Mural Project and Keep UNO Beautiful, a Keep Louisiana Beautiful affiliate. Fine Arts students received service learning credit for their work on the murals. Members of Audubon Society gave students presentations about the Audubon Mural Project, opening the door for networking opportunities and further collaboration with students. The Native Plant Initiative provided plants for the beautification projects, utilizing native plants to benefit the overall environment, provide habitat and shelter for native insect species as well as provide an abundant food source for native bird populations. The Office of Research hosted a community outreach event where the Native Plant Initiative gave away hundreds of free native plants. The community was informed about the efforts of UNO Fine Arts students, the Audubon Mural Project, the beautification projects as part of Keep UNO Beautiful, and the importance of native plants.