Haverford College
Tier2-4: Xeriscaping

The arboretum follows the practice of right plant, right place. Stokes Green roof also uses a selection of sedums, a drought tolerant genus. Limited mowing areas have been greatly expanded to increase wildlife habitat and cut back on gasoline use. This also encourages groundwater absorption and reduces runoff, especially in the meadow above the Duck Pond. Wetland trees, shrubs and perennials have been added to a heavily visited (by humans and water fowl alike) section of the Duck Pond to reduce bank erosion. Whenever possible, plants native to our region are selected rather than introduced species. This ensures a food source for wildlife, prevents exotic species from possibly crowding out threatened native species and reduces the need for adding soil amendments, chemical controls and extra watering. Tree removal policy has always been, plant two trees for every one cut down.