Save Mathews Garden

“They paved paradise and put up a parking lot,” so sang Joni Mitchell.

Sadly, it is true that the demands of urban expansion encroach upon some vital natural habitats. Take, for example, the Mathews Garden, a small environmental gem on the University of Kentucky campus.

It is a place frequented and enjoyed by those who work nearby and by visitors who are interested in Kentucky’s native plants. It is also a classroom for biology and horticulture students.

It would be wonderful if UK, the largest institution of higher learning in Kentucky, would embrace the preservation of the garden, a sanctuary amid the hubbub of daily life on campus with its unique ecosystem of native flora and fauna.

The garden and the two houses on the site were established over 100 years ago. Once the wrecking ball has done its work, the garden and houses (all a part of Lexington’s proud heritage) are gone forever and cannot be resurrected.

I hope UK President Eli Capilouto and the Board of Trustees will seek another option for the College of Law’s expansion.

This story was originally published March 3, 2016 at 7:14 PM with the headline "Save Mathews Garden."