University of Rochester
OP-9: Landscape Management

Managed grounds only includes the managed green space; figures does not include square footage of building footprints; parking lots, roadways, walkways.

The organic landscape management program primarily uses Avenger, a citrus-based weed killer.

An excellent example of a cultural practice is promoting soil invigoration for treatment of trees. The University of Rochester uses as few pesticides as possible. There is nowhere on the campus that is not covered by the IPM plan. The pest control unit is very careful with IPM and tries to limit their use of pesticides. IPM considers what is economically practical, socially and esthetically acceptable, as well as environmentally responsible. The results are a Campus with high quality plantings with fewer pesticide applications. Judicious cultural and fertilizer practices are other reasons for the excellent horticulture results. No preventative pesticides are used, promoting beneficial insects and mites in tree canopies. In addition, regular overseeding promotes healthier turf resulting in the reduced demand for herbicides.

Whenever possible, native plants are prioritized for planting. They are the first consideration in any planting project. Native plants are also used in landscaping for education and pest resistance opportunities. We also select region-specific, drought-tolerant grass.

Protection of existing trees and shrubs shall include fencing a minimum of 5’ outside the dripline of the crown; lawn areas shall be protected with fencing at limits defined by the Project Manager. Any traffic or construction within this area requires authorization from the Manager of Horticulture and Grounds. Where traffic is approved within the dripline, the area of travel is to be covered with 6” of mulch placed on the ground and then a layer of 3⁄4” plywood prior to any work.

The University of Rochester is dedicated to installing rain gardens with every new building project. In 2016, a rain garden was installed as part of Wegmans hall. In 2017, a rain garden was installed as part of the new Genesee Hall building project. In 2020, a rain garden was installed at the Witmer House.

The brush composting and reusing program has been going on for at least 50 years. The University of Rochester Grounds staff never puts organic waste into dumpsters or other trash disposals. Additionally, wood from millings and shavings are collected from Sage Art Center.

To create energy-efficient landscape design, we plant foundation trees along buildings (25-50 foot tall trees at maturity), and parking lot mediants as rain gardens or shrubs. Additionally, O’Brien Hall has a green roof.

Managing deicing compounds throughout the winter season is a top priority, providing safe conditions on roads, lots, and walkways while being environmentally conscious and sensitive. Practices include: applying brine, monitoring application rates, designating strategic locations for snow storage; reducing (closing off) secondary walks and stairs, and implementing snowmelt systems to high traffic areas or entrances to new buildings.

During the growing season, students are hired to hand-weed garden beds. 40% of gas-powered hand tools have been converted to electric hand tools. We also purchased a mean green 60-inch lawnmower that is electric.