In an effort to bring back the days when Botany Pond was used as an outdoor classroom and laboratory, the University has begun a two-year, $180,000 renovation project on the pond, which is nestled between the Erman Biology Center and the Zoology Building, just beside Hull Gate. John Coulter, the first Chair of the Botany Department, planted some of the first plant specimens at the pond in the early 20th century. The project, which began Thursday, July 1, will re-establish the pond’s original marsh-like setting. The major construction work is set to finish in the fall.