Grounds Management
Western is creating beautiful and welcoming campus grounds. We are planning, planting, and maintaining space while minimizing the use of toxic chemicals, protecting habitat, and conserving water and resources.
Stormwater Management
Cleary Courtyard
Sustainable Stormwater Management – using permeable pavers, the design team was able to promote the infiltration of stormwater through the surface of the pavers into the ground cleansing and cooling the water while promoting the recharge of our aquifers. This process will also help reduce peak flows through the existing storm sewers ultimately reducing the likelihood of downstream flooding.
- Overview
- Stormwater Planters
- Evolution of Wisconsin Soil
- Permeable Paving
- Porous Asphalt
- Raingardens
Bioretention Cells (Biomimicry) – A series of cells planted with water tolerant trees and perennials will help aid in evapo-transpiration and groundwater recharge. The bioretention cells in combination with the permeable pavers also help remove the pollutants from the first flush of stormwater. During the first few minutes of a storm, the 'first flush' typically includes any pollution from salts, chemicals or other materials that are likely to be on the surface of the courtyard.
Tree Campus USA
Tree Campus USA colleges and universities strive to engage their student body as well as their broader community to establish and sustain healthy community forests for the benefit of current and future residents. Western Landscape Horticulture students are working toward building a Tree Campus USA here at Western.
Plants
Native Plants – using plants native to La Crosse will promote a regional ecosystem promoting diversity in the native flora and fauna found within the Driftless Region.
