McMaster University has partnered with various campus and community leaders to create a new outdoor classroom and relaxation space titled “Miller’s Grove”.

Located behind alumni field, this classroom will serve as a memorial to Les Miller, McMaster’s manager of operations and facilities from 1988 to 2007. The project spans a four month period that began in early May 2016 and will be completed with a presentation ceremony on August 11, 2016.

The space, which can hold up to 30 students, will capitalize on the University’s close proximity to Cootes paradise and function as a relaxation and observation area for students. It will also include a butterfly and rain garden that will assist in developing and advancing the local ecological knowledge of McMaster students and community youth.

This installation project is also in accordance with McMaster’s efforts to restore the Ravine Rd Trailhead’s surrounding forest area, which the University hopes to accomplish by removing invasive plant species and replacing them with native flora and fauna such as oak trees.

Completion of this project is attributed to community and campus partners such as the Royal Botanicals Gardens, local Hamilton residents, campers from McMaster’s Sports Fitness School and Alumni participating in MacServe. Campus partners include the President’s office, Sports Fitness School outdoor adventure staff, the department of athletics and recreation, and the grounds department.

This outdoor classroom space can be booked for meetings and classes by contacting T.J. Kelly, Manager Facilities and Events, with the department of Athletics and Recreation. Students, staff, faculty and members of the Hamilton community are invited to visit and enjoy the new space.