University of South Florida (Tampa)
IN-3: Innovation 3

In March 2013, the University of South Florida (USF) and Busch Gardens entered into a creative agreement to re-use campus Oak and Palm trimmings (known as browse) and occasionally full trees that require removal from the campus grounds. These materials are taken by Busch Gardens to provide fresh food for many of the animals and the large tree limbs are used to enhance the animal habitats. Thus far 13,350 cubic feet, or 494 cubic yards, of material have been diverted from landfills as a result of this partnership. Many of the animals at Busch Gardens are leaf eaters. Ensuring they have a safe and adequate supply of fresh leaves is an important part of maintaining the excellent health of the animals. There are not many commercial sources for this type of food. On the one and a half square mile campus, USF frequently needs to trim trees that the animals love to eat. The result is a mutually beneficial partnership. The disposal fees and landfill use for USF are reduced and Busch Gardens receives a free source of fresh browse material for the animals. The primary recipients of the USF browse currently are the kangaroos, hippos, gorillas, and elephants. Sometimes branches are given to the big cats, who pounce and play with them. In addition, mature trees must occasionally be removed from the USF Tampa campus; these are then re-purposed to provide natural climbing structures and habitat enrichment for the Busch Gardens animals.