Overall Rating Gold - expired
Overall Score 83.80
Liaison Breeana Sylvas
Submission Date March 1, 2019
Executive Letter Download

STARS v2.1

University of California, Merced
IN-26: Innovation C

Status Score Responsible Party
Complete 1.00 / 1.00 Rodney Trevathan
General Services Manager
Facilities Management
"---" indicates that no data was submitted for this field

Name or title of the innovative policy, practice, program, or outcome:
Hydrogel

A brief description of the innovative policy, practice, program, or outcome that outlines how credit criteria are met and any positive measurable outcomes associated with the innovation:

In July of 2016 the university deployed a Hydrogel system into four event and recreational landscapes. They include the Bowl, the Amphitheater, the Soccer Field, and the Quad. The Hydrogel system increases moisture-retention capabilities and acts as a water and nutrient reservoir, allowing a slow release of water into the soil and roots, reducing water usage. The Hydrogel is environmentally sound, non-toxic, and biodegradable. Since its deployment it has saved a total of 2.3 million gallons of water while retaining the integrity of the turf.


Which of the following impact areas does the innovation most closely relate to? (select up to three):
Grounds
Water
Coordination & Planning

A letter of affirmation from an individual with relevant expertise or a press release or publication featuring the innovation :
The website URL where information about the programs or initiatives is available:
Additional documentation to support the submission:
---

Data source(s) and notes about the submission:
---

The information presented here is self-reported. While AASHE staff review portions of all STARS reports and institutions are welcome to seek additional forms of review, the data in STARS reports are not verified by AASHE. If you believe any of this information is erroneous or inconsistent with credit criteria, please review the process for inquiring about the information reported by an institution or simply email your inquiry to stars@aashe.org.