Overall Rating Gold - expired
Overall Score 70.54
Liaison Tavey Capps
Submission Date Oct. 18, 2013
Executive Letter Download

STARS v1.2

Duke University
OP-T2-47: Xeriscaping

Status Score Responsible Party
Complete 0.25 / 0.25 Tavey Capps
Environmental Sustainability Director
Office of the Executive Vice President
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Does the institution use xeriscape landscaping techniques, including the selection of drought tolerant plants?:
Yes

A brief description of the program or practice:

Landscaping at Duke University is designed in a way to create a natural environment that is not dependent on water. Drought-tolerant plants and green roofs on campus with succulents are significant examples of these efforts. Ornamental stones are used to hold water, manage runoff, avoid rutting, and prevent weeds. These projects are self-sufficient once they are established, making them an economically efficient investment in sustainable practices.
In the Duke Gardens, water conservation is a high priority and xeriscaping plays a large role in plant decisions. Plants are preferred that require little irrigation once established, and plants that need more water are sited appropriately for efficient water use. Proper mulching is also a standard procedure for all planting areas.
Additionally, Duke University Grounds uses drip irrigation, when feasible. Currently Grounds is using drip irrigation to irrigate willow oak seedlings. These special willow oak seedlings were grown from willow oak acorns collected on campus. The seedlings are currently located at the Duke Campus Farm and will be transported to main campus when they are older.


The website URL where information about the program or practice is available:
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Data source(s) and notes about the submission:
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