Tree Campus Higher Education

What is Tree Campus Higher Education?

Tree Campus Higher Education, formally known as Tree Campus USA, is a national program of the Arbor Day Foundation that honors colleges and universities for promoting healthy management of their campus forests and for engaging the community in environmental stewardship.  Drake has been a designated Tree Campus since 2011.  To achieve and renew the honor, a campus must meet five standards, which include maintaining a tree advisory committee, a campus tree care plan, dedicated annual expenditures for its campus tree program, and an Arbor Day observance and student service-learning project.

Drake's Tree Care Plan

The Drake Tree Care Plan provides a framework for best tree care on campus.  It outlines practices. procedures, and policies for protecting, maintaining, and removing trees.  This plan ensures proper species selection, promotes tree health, ensures trees are replaced when removal becomes necessary, and strives to educate the public on the value of trees.

Student Service-Learning Project

The Grounds Department partners with student organization, DEAL, to host an annual Arbor Day Ceremonial tree planting.  Everyone on campus is encouraged to stop by and help!

Tree Campus Committee 

The advisory committee is made up of a diverse audience including a representative from students, faculty, facilities, community, and the sustainability coordinator.  They regularly meet and provide guidance for future planting and educational events to form a connection with the community. 

Grounds workers that make it possible: 
• Patrick Williams, Grounds Manager
• Jack Bush, Campus Horticulturist
• Lindsay Mack, Campus Horticulturist