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Mathew Holding Eagle III

BSU looks to reclaim ‘University of the Pines’ legacy through fundraiser

Bemidji State University's tree fundraiser
Bemidji State University is seeking donations for its "Replant Our Roots Project." It's a fundraiser to reforest the campus following historic damage caused by a June storm. This photo was taken on BSU's campus on June 22, the day after the storm.
Courtesy of Bemidji State University

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A special fundraising initiative recently launched at Bemidji State University is aimed at replanting trees on campus. That's after a destructive storm in June destroyed an estimated 9 million trees throughout Beltrami County. Following the storm, Gov. Tim Walz declared a peacetime emergency in the area.

The BSU Alumni & Foundation launched the fundraiser, the “Replant Our Roots Project,” earlier this month. It’s part of BSU’s bigger “For the North” campaign, which looks to raise $25 million to “raise funds to advance student success, upgrade campus facilities and boost enrollment efforts.”

Bemidji State University's tree fundraiser
Bemidji State University Alumni & Foundation executive director Allyssa “A.J.” Joseph said the "Replant Our Roots Project" has a goal of raising enough money to plant 100 trees on campus. Joseph is seen here giving a speech on BSU's campus on Oct. 2.
Courtesy of Bemidji State University

“We had no idea that the storm would hit so hard in June, and so obviously we didn't plan to fundraise for trees,” said Allyssa “A.J.” Joseph, executive director of the BSU Alumni & Foundation. “But I can't think of a better fundraising opportunity that brings folks together ‘For the North,’ like planting trees.”

Joseph said the June storm destroyed about 200 trees on BSU’s campus. As part of the project, organizers are seeking full donations in the amount of $1,000.

"The goal of the ‘Replant Our Roots’ campaign is to fundraise for not only 100 trees, but for a maintenance fund to make sure that they thrive once planted,” Joseph said. “And to make sure that our alumni feel connected."

Every full donation comes with a plaque that will be displayed near the contributed tree crediting, the donor or someone they’ve dedicated it to. The plaque can include a custom message for visitors to read as well. As a gift, donors will also receive a miniature 3D pine tree constructed out of wood to commemorate their involvement in the project.

Joseph credited BSU alum Shane Loreno with the idea for “Replant our Roots.” Loreno, who now lives in the Twin Cities, said he was moved to action after seeing the storm’s aftermath in the news.

Bemidji State University's tree fundraiser
Bemidji State University alumnus Shane Loreno said the fundraiser "Replant Our Roots Project" is important to continue BSU’s legacy as the “University of the Pines." Here, Loreno is seen at Diamond Point Park in Bemidji, Minn., which neighbors BSU's campus, on Sept. 1.
Courtesy of Bemidji State University

“I came up with the idea in my backyard, talking with my finance, who is also a BSU grad. She thought a replanting effort on campus was needed and necessary,” Loreno said. “We pushed really hard on trying to make it happen, and the people at BSU had it grow legs and made it work. And we’re off and running.”

Loreno said replanting trees on BSU’s campus is more than just improving the landscape, it’s about preserving the university’s legacy.   

"Moving forward and to 2026 and 2027, I think we can really regain that name of the ‘University of the Pines,’” he said. “And let our students enjoy what I got to enjoy at BSU and really prosper learning, really push for the outdoor feel and the outdoors in that area."

The fundraiser is expected to last until the end of December. The trees will be planted sometime this spring, and donors will be invited to take part.