This October 22, 2026 feature from the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden looks back on its Summer Landscape Assistant program, in which 13 students spent the summer mulching, weeding, and power washing buildings across campus while photographing their work. They worked alongside staff from Grounds and Landscape Services and Building Maintenance Services and learned from longtime volunteer gardeners. They also took part in weekly leadership trainings through the Learning by Leading™ program. Along the way, students gained practical skills, a broader view of how the campus operates, and ideas about possible career paths, all while helping make UC Davis a more beautiful and welcoming place.
