sustainability
SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS
We believe in responsible stewardship of our grounds and resources to protect and sustain the Center as a vibrant place of beauty, teaching, learning, and joy for future generations.
The ISU Horticulture Center is committed to putting sustainability into practice through its infrastructure and landscape practices and through collaboration with students, staff, and faculty. As a demonstration site allowing for community observation and often participation, we aim to create lasting impressions that encourage visitors toward a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.
Our thanks to the ISU Sustainability Fund which has provided grant funding for several of the following projects at the Horticulture Center, including this website.
Demonstration Gardens
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3 acres
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Low-input perennial, fruit, vegetable, and herb gardens
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Organic vegetable garden
Sustainable Infrastructure
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Green roof
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Solar array
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Wind turbine
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Permeable parking lot – installed by AGR 252 students (2021)
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Outdoor classroom - installed by AGR 252 students (2016)
Research
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Pennycress cover crop/biofuel research - Dr. John Sedbrook
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Beneficial soil microbe inoculation for prairie plant establishment - Dr. Diane Byers
MORE SUSTAINABLE
PRACTICES
Volunteer Community Supported Program
Native Ecology and Sustainability Areas:
Native plant nursery for seed harvesting
Restored prairie area – 3 acres