With the sun hanging overhead, the Cheeseman environmental study area located at the back of the school by the Kirsch Center appeared quiet and serene.
The only sounds that could be heard were the squawking ducks and the rustling of leaves as lizards rush across the dirt to find a new hiding spot.
For those looking for a spot to relax and break away from stress, the Cheeseman arboretum, also known as the nature preservation, is a perfect place.
You will immediately be exposed to a variety of plant life as you walk towards the Cheeseman arboretum gates.
The arboretum is over 1.5 acres and has 12 native plant communities.
Rugged signs tell what type of environment you are in.
Mini signs scattered throughout the arboretum describe what type of plants you are looking at.
“The arboretum was named after environmental studies professor Doug Cheeseman,” said environmental studies professor Julie Phillips.
Phillips said Cheeseman wanted the arboretum there because he was trying to show others the importance of preservation of nature.
Cheseman coordinator and part time instructor Dianna Martinez said the arboretum is free from distracting city noises.
“The trees help block out the noise of the cars that pass by throughout the day,” said Martinez.
Martinez compared the arboretum to a mini version of California because of all the different climates.
Depending on what type of environment you prefer, there are different places to sit, study or relax and escape the stress that college life can cause.
“I didn’t even know that the garden was here until this quarter,” said De Anza student Jennifer Melgarejo.
“I would come more often if they had Wi-Fi,” Melgarejo said.
