Grounds

1.1  Develop and implement the use of a preferred plant species list to reduce water consumption for each landscape type—formal, semi-formal, and native—by fall 2017.

1.2 Develop a dashboard of irrigation water consumption per irrigated area by fall 2017.

1.3 Evaluate the viability of rain and soil moisture sensors to reduce excess water consumption starting fall 2017.

1.4 Increase and enhance the use of compost and yard debris used on campus for moisture retention and weed suppression beginning 2018.

2.1 Evaluate all equipment requests to determine whether a viable electric alternative exists beginning 2017.

2.2 Reduce carbon impact of vehicles and equipment to the Outdoor Maintenance shop as budget allows.

3.1 Continuing education classes in Integrated Pest Management for all gardeners, annually.

3.2 Establish baseline of pesticide reduction by 2018.

4.1 Continue to protect water quality by complying with all DOE-required stormwater maintenance activities.

4.2 Establish regular street-sweeping contract to reduce potential pollution runoff to surface waters by 2020.

5.1 Continue goal of employing at least six (6) seasonal student employees in the Outdoor Maintenance shop.

5.2 Continue to improve the educational component of the student employee program.

5.3 Make available educational opportunities on and around Western-owned grounds to enhance understanding and appreciation of the unique environmental setting of Western and its relationship to other global ecosystems.