Landscape and Grounds
Stanford’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its expansion of sustainable landscaping and grounds practices, using new technologies while preserving the unique character and heritage of the campus.
Influenced by Frederick Law Olmsted, sustainability principles have guided the campus’s development for over a century, emphasizing climate-responsive designs, native plant materials, and water conservation.
Stanford’s Landscape and Grounds Management
Vegetation Management
Approximately 75% of the campus features native or drought-resistant plantings, with mulch or non-irrigated grass grounds and native oaks for canopy. Seasonal color is achieved through perennials and wildflower seedlings chosen over water-intensive, non-native ornamental annual plantings.
Integrated Pest Management
Stanford employs an IPM system that minimizes use of chemicals, synthetics, fossil fuels, and water. This system covers about a quarter of campus and is planned and monitored by the Department of Buildings and Grounds Maintenance.
Irrigation
Stanford’s irrigation systems are designed to maximize water conservation. They respond to site conditions using data from an on-site weather station and weather-based irrigation controls. Non-domestic water from Searsville and Felt Lakes irrigates almost all campus landscapes.
Landscape Design
New projects integrate swales and detention areas with native vegetation. Water features are strategically placed to maximize use and enjoyment. Trees are planted to provide natural shading and cooling for buildings and pavements, with an emphasis on deciduous trees along southern and western building exposures.
Research and Development
Campus planners continuously research sustainable products, testing their durability and performance over time. Current tests include exterior LED lights, recycled plastic furniture and posts, permeable pavements, and newly developed drought-resistant lawns. Due to climate change concerns, Stanford is collaborating with a nonprofit to plant a range of oak test species to explore their adaptability to warming climates, pathogens, and seasonal moisture.
Living Lab
Stanford’s campus is a thriving arboretum, blending educational and recreational spaces. Highlights include the Community Garden, the Educational Farm, organic gardens near dining halls, oak groves along Serra Mall, the Arizona Garden and vernal pools in the Arboretum, and the botanical parkway on Campus Drive. These green spaces enrich the university’s mission and provide a serene environment for all.
To learn more about the philosophy and treatment of the Stanford landscape, visit the University Architect / Campus Planning and Design and the Building and Grounds Maintenance websites, which include detailed specifications and guidelines for vegetation, irrigation, landscape design, site furnishings, site lighting, water features, and other topics related to landscape and grounds.