Purdue’s 1869 tree plan recognized for environmental stewardship by landscape architect organization

Purdue University’s 1869 Tree Planting Master Plan received an award for environmental stewardship from the Indiana Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects. The award recognizes exceptional contributions toward the protection and long-term management of natural resources.

“This effort enhances not only the physical environment of the West Lafayette campus, but it also enriches our outdoor academic learning environment,” said Jay Wasson, vice president and chief public safety officer, Physical Facilities and Public Safety. “We are honored that INASLA has chosen to recognize our work.”

The tree planting initiative is part of the 2020 Physical Facilities Sustainability Master Plan and calls for 1,869 trees to be planted on the West Lafayette campus over a five-year period, to align with the year Purdue was founded. Shortly after its creation, the goal was doubled for a total target of 3,738 new trees by fiscal year 2025.

Purdue’s Administrative Operations is responsible for the creation, oversight and implementation of the plan through the collaboration of the Grounds and Campus Planning, Architecture and Sustainability departments. The Purdue Arboretum and MKSK, the landscape architect for the tree plan, were also key partners in the plan’s creation.

With the carefully developed tree plan, Purdue is on a path to establish a more connected campus through the strategic planting of more native, urban and specialty trees. The plan increases the resiliency of the existing urban tree canopy and strengthens and diversifies the campus tree collection, which serves as an outdoor learning environment for current and future students.

Administrative Operations supports the university through safe, reliable and transformative services. The organization recognizes that trees are a critical element to creating vibrant, open spaces and healthy ecosystems. Taking action to add more native species that have evolved over centuries to thrive in this region of the state and helping transform the campus landscape for future generations of Boilermakers are just two examples of how Administrative Operations helps power Purdue.