When it comes to recruiting, upkeeping Ohio University’s landscape might be just as important as promoting its academics.
Prospective students often seal the deal to come to OU after seeing its scenery, said Kelsey Crowley, a sophomore studying communication studies and a university tour guide.
OU spends about $20,000 a year in operating costs for planting materials used around campus, not including labor costs, which weren’t available by press time.
The university actually composts some of its own mulch, a practice overseen by its Recycling and Refuse office. The mulch is made from compostable materials from campus, such as the food in dining halls.
“Certainly our intention is to replicate the natural beauty of Southeast Ohio,” said Adam Riehl, director of Facilities Management.
In the next few months, Facilities plans to focus on “color splash areas,” Riehl said, highlighting spots by Clippinger Laboratories and Emeriti Park, where flowers will be planted.
Tulips and daffodils decorate various campus gates — Peden, Alumni and the Class Gateway in College Green — and sycamore, cherry and Sweet Gum trees also contribute to OU’s aesthetics as part of the many indigenous species scattered throughout campus.
“It’s the first impression (for students),” said Susan Calhoun, landscape coordinator. “We have a beautiful campus. … It’s an outrageous recruiting tool.”
Calhoun said although Facilities normally takes care of most landscaping jobs, the university hires outside landscapers for larger projects, such as work on phase one of the Housing Master Plan.
“I love the flowers over by Ping in Emeriti Park,” Crowley said. “I think it promotes a very relaxing and welcoming atmosphere.”
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