Taylor University
IN-1: Innovation 1

Taylor University prioritizes a responsible approach to land management and natural habitat restoration on all owned or managed properties. Taylor has set aside 80 acres of a recently acquired land parcel for permanent preservation. This is in addition to a recent constructed wetlands initiative, a 25 acre tall-grass prairie restoration effort, and an additional 55 acre state-registered arboretum. Active restoration is also taking place on old field plots that are now within the boundaries of the arboretum. On campus, native plant species are prioritized over non-native species--increasing the habitat quality of the land. These conservation efforts not only provide areas of habitat restoration, but offer a place for students who are interested in the biological and environmental sciences to conduct research. Numerous trail systems facilitate access to some of the more remote restoration areas--providing members of the Taylor community the opportunity to enjoy the serenity that these undisturbed areas offer. The land also includes access to a small lake as well as the Mississinewa River; which adds to the diversity of habitat located on the properties. Taylor's stance on land protection helps to defend natural areas from overuse and other forms of degradation. This mentality is innovative because it does not simply consider the land as area to erect new buildings, but as a place that should remain unaltered.