University of Iowa
OP-9: Landscape Management

Managed grounds include natural areas that are maintained by the landscape services department and athletics within facilities management. This does not include buildings and impervious surfaces (sidewalks, parking lots and structures, and so forth). 

Facilities management strives to manage as much land with organic practices as possible. When not possible due to pests or disease, treatment will be used but with careful consideration and selection of pesticides and other chemical products. 

UI Facilities Management has implemented a modified integrated pest management plan that is based on constant monitoring of conditions, control of invasive species and applications of low impact chemicals only when needed. A multi-year pilot program on the efficacy of compost tea for nutrient support and pest and invasive species control is being conducted on selective areas of campus. The irrigation system on the Pentacrest has allowed a dramatic reduction in the use of herbicides in this area. Providing adequate moisture to promote good turf growth significantly reduces the ability of weeds to become established and thus reduces the need for chemical applications. A quality turf appearance is expected in Category A zones where the highest level of landscape maintenance quality is provided.

The UI Facilities Management landscaping staff uses plant material native to this climate zone whenever feasible. Many acres of campus are located in an urban setting, so native plantings are used where appropriate. Experience has shown that native plantings require less maintenance and support native bird and insect populations. Native plant species are used effectively in campus rain gardens and in areas where low-mow turf is incorporated.

In partnership with the City of Iowa City, the University of Iowa delivers yard waste to the municipal compost site. In turn, the UI uses the finished compost in campus landscaping. The UI also maintains a small stockpile of mulched tree chippings and leaf debris that are used as soil amendment or top dressing when appropriate.

The UI Facilities Management employs a risk-management approach for the snow and ice removal program. Pedestrian and vehicle safety is the primary focus. The selection of management approaches and materials to achieve safe travel conditions is based on reducing ecological impact whenever possible. The first level of response is removal of snow and ice with blades and/or brooms. When a safe travel surface cannot be achieved by mechanical means, a sand and material mixture is applied to melt snow and ice only where necessary. The UI uses a beet juice-infused salt mixture that remains effective at lower temperatures. Experience has shown that, because of its effectiveness, much less mixture is required. UI Facilities Management limits the use of this material along walks adjacent to the Iowa River in an effort to minimize runoff into the river.