University of the Pacific
OP-10: Landscape Management

We follow the guidelines of the IPM program. However, we are not staffed properly to develop and maintain an actual written program. We are looking into a version similar to the IPM that is more realistic for the current staff level.

Every aspect in managing Pacific’s landscape is designed to encompass sustainability. The University of the Pacific ground’s department employs licensed and certified chemical applicators to ensure a safe environment for our students. We are focused on reducing landscape water usage through smart design known as xeriscaping. The campuses storm water run-off is closely monitored through the use of Bio filtering and other control measures required by (storm water pollution prevention plans) also known as SWPPP.

Pacific’s ecologically diverse landscape creates a welcoming environment for students to enjoy. We have a comprehensive tree program that monitors the health of our campus trees to ensure longevity and optimal health. Inner campus landscapes are maintained by gardeners on a daily basis. Pacific is focusing on transforming low use turf area into sustainably designed native landscapes that require fewer resources. The Stockton campus honors John Muir by displaying some of the species discovered by Muir. You can see some of these species at the John Muir Botanical area located in the northern Quad courtyard. The Muir botanical area is a perfect display of Pacific’s dedication to sustainability. Engineering students are currently working on an interactive smart phone application to help educate visitors on specific varieties planted in the botanical area. In AY15-16, a new native garden was built alongside the food producing Ted & Chris Robb Garden. Plants in the native garden were carefully selected by landscape designers, Pacific faculty and the grounds team. All plants are California native and drought tolerant. Maintaining a healthy landscape is crucial when dealing with invasive species. We prefer to mechanically remove invasive species when possible. When the removal requires a more aggressive approach we will take care of the issue through the use of an EPA approved chemical treatment.

The Pacific Grounds Department recycles all landscape green waste materials. The green waste is collected at our Recycling Center. The waste is picked through our service provider. The provider delivers the green waste to their facility where it is mulched and delivered back to the University for composting bed, trees, lawns etc.

The only organic soil on campus is at the organic garden. Technically that soil is not certified organic. This is geared for larger schools with undeveloped or woodland acreage.

Before purchasing any products our department does extensive research looking to find the most environmentally friendly organic options. The Physical Plant purchases these organics despite the increase in costs. Facilities has converted all gas powered carts to electric power. We went one step further and added solar panels to the carts to aid in the charging process. Our large mowers use organic hydraulic fluid. We use insecticides that are made from lemon oil extract. Our soil stimulants are organic as well. We use natural sea Kelp extract to rejuvenate the soils.

Potable/non-potable: The University of the Pacific recently expanded the non-potable water system from sixty to eighty percent in recent years in an effort to reduce the use of potable water. The non-potable water source is provided by the Calaveras River. The Calaveras River is a natural body of water that runs through the camps. The other 20% of our irrigation water is provided by Cal water, our local water provider. Vegetative bio-swales: In recent years Pacific has installed eight vegetative bio-swales to help improve our water retention rates. These measures were taken in order to receive LEED certifications on new building projects. The vegetative bio-swales are inspected and maintained by the Grounds department quarterly. Irrigation control: The landscape irrigation system is controlled and adjusted by an Irrigation management monitoring software (IMMS). This system collects data from a local weather station strategically placed on campus. The weather station collects raw data and sends the information to a desk top computer. The IMMS is controlled by a desk-top computer as well as a few mobile devices when access is needed remotely. Soil preparation: The Grounds department mechanically aerates and top dresses the soil with native compost improving the quality of turf as well as improving water infiltration and retention. Compost is heavily used to retain moisture in planter beds throughout campus. Drip irrigation: Drip irrigation has been used extensively over the past few years in order to reduce water usage.

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