Northern Arizona University
OP-9: Landscape Management

Other NAU Land Management Projects not included:

NAU currently manages 50,000 acres of forest and grassland through the Centennial Forest, which we do little maintenance on besides thinning for fire prevention. https://nau.edu/forestry/about/research/centennial-forest/

NAU manages land on 10 gardens within the Southwest Experimental Garden Array.
https://sega.nau.edu/home

NAU manages land on the Merriam-Powell Research Station in partnership with the Arboretum at Flagstaff.
https://in.nau.edu/merriam-powell-research-station/

Achieving 84% organically managed grounds is a significant milestone for NAU, and this accomplishment can be largely attributed to the inclusion of the Hat Ranch parcel. Our organic landscape management program is characterized by a comprehensive approach that includes aeration and core processing (when turf is present, although most of Hat Ranch land does not have turf), manual removal of weeds and invasive species, and maintaining grasses at a minimum height of 3 inches.

One of our core principles is the strict adherence to organic practices, ensuring that no inorganic fertilizers or chemical pesticides, fungicides, and herbicides are used. This commitment reflects our dedication to environmentally friendly and sustainable land management.

The historic Hat Ranch plays a pivotal role in NAU's mission. It serves as a catalyst for instilling a deep appreciation for the land while driving innovation in science-based solutions. Our goals encompass addressing critical issues such as climate change adaptation, the restoration of degraded lands, and the promotion of sustainable recreation. We achieve these objectives through place-based teaching and learning, cutting-edge research, and strategic collaborations with a wide range of partners, including public, private, and tribal entities.

In summary, our remarkable achievement of 84% organic grounds management, thanks in large part to the Hat Ranch parcel, exemplifies NAU's commitment to environmentally conscious practices and its dedication to fostering a deeper connection with the land while driving forward innovative solutions for a sustainable future.

NAU's approach to plant stewardship is centered around promoting the use of native and adapted plants. We emphasize the importance of native species and meadows, and when possible, we convert other landscapes or install new ones to incorporate these elements. The university partners and collaborates with the Southwest Experimental Garden Array (SEGA) to predict species best suited to survive changes in the region's climate.

A significant focus is placed on the health and preservation of forested areas, particularly the existing Ponderosa Pine-Arizona Fescue forest on the campus. They aim to maintain a healthy forest with a mix of old-growth and younger tree stands, along with native meadow grasses and understory shrubs. To ensure resilience and success, all specified planting materials must consist of species with a proven history of adaptability to Northern Arizona's locale. Preference is given to xeriscape designs that utilize drip irrigation, enhancing water efficiency and sustainability. Regarding tree and shrub planting, all specified materials must be hardy and suitable for the area. Any new or unconventional plants require approval from the grounds administration to maintain consistency and appropriateness. NAU maintains its Tree Campus certification by administering a tree care plan, reflecting its commitment to responsible tree management and conservation efforts.

NAU's Landscape Master Plan prioritizes landscape architectural design that showcases the beauty, diversity, and uniqueness of the regional landscape by utilizing native and adapted species in appropriate densities. The aim is to achieve ecological soundness and create a regional aesthetic that harmonizes with the natural environment while enhancing plant diversity through testing and incorporating adapted species.

NAU's approach to hydrology and water use is driven by a commitment to sustainability and efficient water management practices. They prioritize conscious water use by employing the following strategies:

- Utilizing native and adapted plants: The university is mindful of water use by incorporating native and adapted plant species in their landscape designs. These plants are naturally suited to the local environment and require less watering.
- Zoning low-water-use species together: NAU employs irrigation designs that group low-water-use species together. This approach facilitates a gradual reduction in irrigation needs and supports the transition towards more water-efficient landscaping.
- Minimizing turf grass and water use: The institution identifies high-priority turf areas and focuses on optimizing soil and turf health. By minimizing turf grass and using efficient watering practices, they reduce overall water consumption.
- Monitoring and reducing water usage: NAU actively monitors water usage and implements systems for water savings. They also collect data on irrigation use, particularly for reclaimed water, to ensure efficient water utilization.
-Implementation of Calsense: NAU is adopting a central control system called Calsense, which is expected to save about 30% of water and improve
reclaimed water use.
- Xeriscape approach and drip irrigation: Preference is given to designs that center around a xeriscape approach, which involves using drought-resistant and water-efficient plants. Additionally, the use of drip irrigation further enhances water efficiency.

To manage stormwater effectively, NAU utilizes practices that focus on slowing stormwater runoff rather than concentrating it. They minimize and disconnect impervious surfaces using bio-retention techniques with riparian native grasses and direct runoff to landscape areas with well-draining soils that promote infiltration.

NAU's approach to landscape materials management and waste minimization is centered around making environmentally conscious decisions to minimize impacts on the environment. Their strategy includes the following key elements:

1. Materials Selection: NAU considers the longevity of landscape materials and products as well as their local availability. By choosing durable materials that are readily accessible in the region, they aim to reduce the environmental impacts associated with extraction, processing, transportation, and maintenance.
2. Life-Cycle Analysis: The institution conducts life-cycle analyses of landscape materials to assess their environmental impact from production to disposal. This enables them to make informed decisions that align with their waste minimization goals.
3. Waste Collection and Composting: The NAU Grounds department actively collects grass clippings, pine needles, and leaves from landscape maintenance activities. These organic materials are then used in composting, turning waste into a valuable resource for enriching the soil.
4. Mulching Blades: NAU uses mulching blades on their mowers, which helps to finely cut grass clippings and leaves, returning them to the lawn as a natural fertilizer. This process reduces the need for external fertilizers and contributes to waste reduction.

NAU's approach to energy-efficient landscape design focuses on reducing the urban heat island effect here in the intensity of the high desert sun and minimizing stark gravel areas. Their strategy includes the following measures:

- Planting Materials for Heat Reduction: The institution installs plant materials strategically to mitigate the urban heat island effect. By using a combination of trees, shrubs, and other vegetation, they aim to create shade and reduce surface temperatures in areas that tend to trap and radiate heat.
- Limiting Stark Gravel Areas: NAU actively works on reducing the extent of stark gravel areas, which can intensify the heat and contribute to the urban heat island effect. Instead, they focus on creating planting beds that achieve 80% vegetation coverage on the ground plane within a few years.

By implementing these energy-efficient landscape design practices, NAU aims to create a cooler and more sustainable environment on its campus.

- Northern Arizona University (NAU) is taking steps to reduce noise and air pollution while decreasing its reliance on nonrenewable fossil fuels by transitioning a significant portion of its landscaping equipment to electric-powered tools. This transition, led by students in the Climate and Science Solutions (CSS) graduate program in collaboration with Facility Services and the Office of Sustainability, aims to save thousands of dollars in fuel costs over the next decade. The project began with the purchase of electric lawnmowers, trimmers, a leaf blower, a chainsaw, batteries, and chargers as an initial pilot phase. It aligns with NAU's broader sustainability goals, including achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.

- Manicured Landscape Reduction: NAU is actively reducing the extent of manicured landscapes on campus. This includes minimizing turf areas and incorporating more natural and native landscapes that require less maintenance and resources.

- Campus Gardens for Food Security: The institution emphasizes the importance of campus gardens to address food security. These gardens serve as valuable resources, providing fresh produce and contributing to sustainable and locally sourced food options.

- Environmentally Friendly De-icer: NAU uses a commercially available naturally occurring de-icer, magnesium chloride, that meets environmental requirements in Arizona and Colorado. This choice reflects the institution's commitment to using eco-friendly alternatives for winter maintenance.

- Preferred Sources for Native Plants: NAU prefers to source native grasses, perennials, and shrubs from their Research Greenhouse and local growers. This approach supports biodiversity, conserves native plant species, and promotes sustainable landscaping.

Information provided by: Janel.Wilcox; Matthew.Espino, and Shawn.Pinkoski

Note from Grounds:
No chemicals are used for pest control.
Pesticide-free: No pesticides used for pest control related to turf and landscape maintenance. For the purposes of this document the term “pesticide-free” refers specifically to the use of synthetic pesticides.
EPA Rule 25B: Identifies what materials are considered minimum-risk pesticides. These products are a special class of pesticides that are not subject to federal registration requirements because their ingredients, both active and inert,
are demonstrably safe for the intended use.