The Viking Ventures

Fast Facts: Viking Oasis Planting Project

Revitalizing Augustana University’s Viking Oasis for a Sustainable Future

Project Overview

The Viking Oasis is a retention pond located at Augustana University, designed to manage stormwater while also serving as a peaceful and scenic spot-on campus. However, since its completion in 2023, the pond has faced serious environmental challenges, including algae overgrowth, shoreline erosion, poor water quality, and unsafe conditions for wildlife. This project aims to restore the Viking Oasis into a thriving natural ecosystem using native plants, creating a healthier environment for both students and wildlife.

Why Does This Project Matter?

🌱 Healthier Water – The pond currently suffers from eutrophication, which occurs when too many nutrients (from fertilizers and runoff) enter the water, leading to excessive algae and cyanobacteria growth. This can be harmful to fish, birds, and even people who come into contact with the water.

🏞 Stronger Shoreline – The pond’s edges are eroding due to the lack of deep-rooted plants. Without a natural buffer, heavy rains wash away soil, making the shoreline unstable and muddy.

🦆 Safer for Wildlife – In 2023, plastic netting left in the grass trapped and killed ducklings and turtles. While most of the netting has been removed, improving the habitat with native plants will make the pond a safe refuge for animals instead of a danger zone.

🎓 Educational Opportunities – The Viking Oasis provides a living classroom for students studying biology, sustainability, and environmental science. This project will allow students to participate in hands-on research, water quality testing, and plant restoration projects.

🏫 A More Beautiful Campus – Right now, parts of the pond look muddy, overgrown, and unkempt. Thoughtful planting will enhance the beauty of this important campus landmark while making it more inviting to students and visitors .

What’s Causing the Problem?

🌊 Algae Overgrowth – The campus green, located uphill from the pond, is regularly fertilized to keep the grass lush. Unfortunately, rain washes excess fertilizer into the pond, feeding algae and causing murky water and harmful cyanobacterial blooms.

🌾 No Protective Plants – The pond’s original design included turf grass up to the water’s edge, which drowned when water levels rose. Without proper vegetation, the soil erodes, and weeds like Canada thistle have taken over.

🚯 Human Impact – Students and visitors sometimes enter the pond, leaving behind trash, disturbing wildlife, and even dumping pet fish like betta fish, which can introduce harmful bacteria.

The Solution: Restoring the Pond with Native Plants

🌿 What’s Being Planted?
This project will introduce carefully selected native plants that will naturally clean the water, protect the shoreline, and support local wildlife. The plants are divided into three main zones:

1️⃣ Aquatic Plants (Deep Water & Surface) – These grow in the pond itself and help absorb nutrients before algae can use them. Example species:

• American white waterlily (Nymphaea odorata) – Floating flowers that provide shade and oxygen.

• Spatterdock (Nuphar lutea) – Lily-like plant that slows water movement and improves clarity.

2️⃣ Shoreline & Amphibious Plants (Shallow Water & Wet Areas) – These grow where land meets water, preventing erosion and filtering runoff. Example species:

• Pickerelweed (Pontedaria cordata) – Purple-flowering plant that stabilizes the shoreline.

• Softstem bulrush (Schoenoplectus tabernaemontani) – Helps trap sediments and pollutants before they enter the pond.

3️⃣ Riparian Buffer Plants (Dry Land Near the Pond) – These act as a natural border around the pond, preventing runoff and creating a beautiful landscape. Example species:

• Little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) – Drought-resistant grass with deep roots to prevent soil loss.

• Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) – Bright yellow flowers that attract pollinators .

Who’s Involved?

📚 Augustana University Students & Faculty – Environmental science and biology students will take part in planting, monitoring water quality, and researching native species .

🌍 Sustainability Groups – The Office of Sustainability and Augie Green will oversee the long-term care of the pond, just like they do for other campus gardens .

💰 Funding & Support –

• Civitas Honors Program has generously provided $1,000 for the project.

• Augustana Student Association Viking Ventures Fund of up to $1200

• Plants will be sourced from Wicklein’s Wholesale Native Plant Nursery, a supplier specializing in ecological restoration.

What Will Change?

✅ Cleaner Water – Native plants will absorb excess nutrients, preventing future algal blooms and improving water clarity.

✅ Stable Shoreline – Deep-rooted grasses and wetland plants will hold the soil in place, reducing erosion and creating a healthier ecosystem.

✅ Thriving Wildlife – With safer habitats and new nesting sites for wood ducks, birds, amphibians, and beneficial insects will return to the area.

✅ Stronger Community Connection – Student volunteers, sustainability clubs, and campus groups will actively participate in making the Viking Oasis a beautiful and functional space for years to come.

Project Timeline

📅 Spring 2025 – Begin planting native species with student volunteers.

📅 Summer 2025 – Monitor plant growth and measure improvements in water quality.

📅 Fall 2025 & Beyond – Continue long-term maintenance with Augie Green and the Office of Sustainability, ensuring that the ecosystem remains healthy.

How Can You Help?

🌿 Volunteer! – Get involved in planting events and help transform the Viking Oasis.

📚 Learn & Advocate! – Spread awareness about the importance of sustainable landscapes and water conservation.

🚯 Respect the Space! – Avoid dumping waste, feeding wildlife, or entering the pond to help protect the new ecosystem.

Reference:

Johnson, R. K. (2024). Viking Oasis Planting Proposal - CIVT Vocation/ENST Thesis. Augustana University.