Natural grass isn’t the only vegetation that is on its way to Cyclone Stadium this spring.

Approximately 30 to 50 new trees are planned to be added to the “All-American Grove” to replace many that are dead or dying.

The grove is a ring of trees accompanied by a plaque that surrounds Cyclone Stadium in honor of the All-Americans that have gone to Iowa State University.

The honor was mainly directed towards athletes who participated in non-revenue sports such as wrestling and cross country.

“We wanted something that would show pride for the success of non-revenue sports,” said Rod Wilson, Director of the Cyclone Club from 1983-1993.

According to Wilson, who developed the idea for the grove, it was erected in 1991 to beautify the stadium and the entry to the university.

Wilson adds that rather than simply “sticking a plaque on a wall somewhere,” they were joined with the trees in hopes of them being a more elegant distinction.

“They’re one of the few things that will continue to grow beautiful,” Wilson said.

The type of trees surrounding the field are Green Ash, Locust and various types of Maple and Oak.

Oak trees were added for color so they would make the ring look more “Iowa State-ish,” Wilson said.

The problem with the trees is that many are suffering from the ill effects of a harsh environment for young plants.

Wilson explained that since the ground in the area of the stadium is rocky, compacted and clay-like, it’s like planting an Iowa tree in Colorado.

According to ISU Athletic Director Gene Smith, it is primarily maintenance problems that are affecting the trees.

“When the concept was come up with, no plan was developed for the maintenance of trees,” Smith said.

Smith said better care will be given to the grove this spring in the form of pruning and irrigation.

“The main thing we’re looking to try and put in place is a proper irrigation system and a long-term maintenance plan,” Smith said.

Wilson said of the plan to recondition the ring, “I think it’s wonderful.”

As of now, the financial burden of the project is unknown.

“We have no idea what it will cost,” Smith said. “We’ll just have to wait until spring to see what’s financially available.”

Although the maintenance plan is a fresh concept, the idea of attending to the grove is not.

“This is not something new,” Smith said. “The trees have always been periodically replaced and repaired.”