Benjamin Reimer (Tonawanda, N.Y.) a junior studying Plant Science, has received the Montine M. Freeman Scholarship in Native Plant Studies, recognizing his work contributing to the College’s riparian forest reforestation project. The $3,000 award, given by The Garden Club of America, supports students nationwide who work to advance the understanding and use of underutilized native plants.
Reimer is leading the Repopulate the Pawpaw Project, with Associate Professor Dr. Andrew Gascho-Landis, an ongoing project spanning the Spring and Fall 2025 semesters. Its goal is to introduce fruit trees to designated ecological restoration zones on the campus. “By installing Pawpaw groves on campus, the hope is to enrich the local and regional biodiversity while encouraging future students to forage fruits and interact with restored landscapes,” says Reimer.
Pawpaws are native North American trees that produce the continent’s largest indigenous fruits. Unlike most of their tropical relatives, these remarkable trees thrive as far north as New York, serving as living relics from a warmer past. Scientists believe pawpaws have survived since the Ice Age.
“This project builds on our riparian restoration efforts beginning in 2021. By introducing fruit trees to our restoration zones, we’re increasing biodiversity while creating a learning opportunity for students,” says Dr. Gascho-Landis, “It is rewarding to see students like Ben take initiative to contribute to campus efforts.”
The College’s riparian forest restoration project is adding 10,000 new trees to campus over a ten-year period. The tree planting effort will restore native upland and lowland forests that have increased water-holding capacity, are less prone to erosion, and filter poor-quality water. These forests will support biodiversity, enhance wildlife habitat, and increase corridor connectivity for species that have declined due to habitat loss.
