Texas A&M University
OP-10: Landscape Management

SSC Grounds Management maintains a fluid approach to IPM. While it is expected that our tasks will employ the least toxic, adversely impactful materials and techniques; we strive to also maintain a high degree of technical proficiency that will allow us to recognize and utilize newer proven methods, technologies, and methods as they are made known and available.

SSC Grounds Management's approach to grounds sustainability is holistic. We believe that continual coordination and collaboration both within our department as well as with the industry and academia, generally help us to achieve a consistently high degree of quality and aesthetically pleasing results. Our approach ensures environmental balance and qualitative durability.

Our approach to new and replacement plantings is multi-faceted. Before any planting decisions are made we consider the other elements that contribute to both a sustainable and durable solution. Areas of consideration include: sun exposure (duration & time of day), proximity to heat and light reflective surfaces, soil conditions including: taxonomy, physiological, chemical; grade, precipitation and/ or supplemental irrigation issues, desired use, financial considerations, etc. Those decisions affect the form and function of plant selection. Where prudent and warranted, the use of native / native adapted plants are promoted. Invasive Species- The SSC Grounds Management staff is comprised of formally educated and highly credentialed personnel who are able to identify invasive species of all forms- insects, weeds, misc. fungal, bacterial, and virus vectors. We continually stay abreast of current of new threats, causal agents, and possible mitigation activities.

SSC Grounds Department generates approximately 14,000 cubic yards of miscellaneous green waste annually. As of October 2012, SSC Grounds Department ceased disposing of 99% of green waste at off-campus area landfills and began self-composting for use on campus. These composted material include: composts, composted wood mulches, wood chips, compost sand blends for turf top dressing, etc.

The soil on campus is a very dense and tight clay. Generally speaking it is hydrophobic. That condition is intensified during periods of infrequent or insufficient precipitation or supplemental irrigation. Furthermore, the average P.H. on campus is a range of 8.6 - 9.4.This condition drastically reduces the availability of naturally occurring nutrients. Lastly, the prominent source of water for landscape irrigation is moderately - highly brackish. Excessive soluble salts applied to the soil exasperate both of the prior conditions. Our primary mode of operation includes: Consistent, periodic applications of soil gypsum in combination with soil aeration. to neutralize the salt, loosen the soil, and reduce compaction. continual topdressing of turf areas with compost & sand blend in conjunction with hollow core aeration. Occasionally, upon the recommendation of the annual soil analysis an application of elemental soil sulphur is made. In highly problematic areas we inoculate the soil with humates and micrrhizae. Our fertility plan is comprised of organic and partially organic slow release fertilizers. The added fertilization is confined to high profile, high use areas.

As was stated previously, SSC Grounds Management actively recycles green waste for use on campus and attempts to utilize native/native adapted/water resourceful plant materials. Furthermore, wherever possible all materials are sourced from reputable, local and regional vendors.

The Texas A&M University Campus has a rich history of cutting edge landscape irrigation technology and management. In 1972, Texas A&M installed a campus-wide state of the art irrigation system. It was arguably the most technologically advanced system of any comparably sized campus in the country. After 40 plus years of utilizing controllers that are now outdated mechanical technology-; SSC Grounds Management is cooperating with industry, academia, and the A&M Foundation to restore the irrigation system to its former "State of the Art" status. Our goal is to reduce irrigation water consumption by 100 - 200 million gallons annually.

Our climate is not conducive to significant ice and snow events. In the case of a minor event, SSC Grounds utilizes Magnesium Chloride Ice melt as a spot treatment on affected pedestrian areas. This blend is significantly less corrosive and does not adversely affect the turf and or landscape plantings. For key campus intersections and other vehicular thoroughfares, Sand is utilized for traction. At the conclusion of the event, SSC Grounds Utilizes a sweeper truck to remove the sand.

Information for this section was supplied by SSC Service Solutions, a third-party contractor for Texas A&M Grounds Maintenance.