As part of our ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and student safety, this summer important work was recently completed in the Osborne Nature Area. The primary goal of this project was to maintain the space, ensure it is safe for student and staff use, and promote a thriving, healthy ecosystem.

Key efforts included the removal of unhealthy or hazardous trees, which improves safety while supporting the long-term health of the forest. In addition, selective clearing opened up the tree canopy, allowing more sunlight to reach the ground. This increased light encourages the growth of native wildflowers such as Narrowleaf Milkweed, the host plant for the Monarch Butterfly, a species currently in decline due to habitat loss and other environmental pressures. Supporting milkweed growth helps provide essential breeding and feeding grounds for monarchs, contributing to broader conservation efforts.

Another exciting example of successful restoration comes from the work of Mint Pasakdee, the Osborne Nature Area Curator, along with support from many students as a part of their community service hours. The team has been planting, monitoring, watering the CA Dutchman's Pipevine, the host plant for the CA Pipevine Swallowtail Butterfly. Thanks to the increased sunlight created by the tree work, the butterfly was recently observed in the Nature Area—specifically in the sunny spaces between the redwood forest and monarch meadow habitats. This sighting marks a positive milestone in the restoration efforts and highlights the success of the habitat enhancements.

These restoration projects not only create a safer, more inviting space for the SCUSD community but also increase opportunities for hands-on environmental learning and contribute meaningfully to local biodiversity.

We welcome collaboration with secondary teachers and their students who are interested in pursuing restoration projects at the Osborne Nature Area and/or at their own school sites.

For more information or to get involved, please contact: 

Kim Hunter, Environmental Literacy TOSA – Kim Hunter

Mint Pasakdee, Osborne Nature Area Curator – Sajeemas Pasakdee (Mint)