Drake has been honored with the 2022 Tree Campus Higher Education (formerly Tree Campus USA) recognition by the Arbor Day Foundation. The hard work of Drake’s Grounds Department has ensured this designation for the 11th year in a row. Facilities Planning and Management is committed to promoting healthy urban forest management and engaging the campus community in environmental stewardship.  The dedicated team cares for over 1,500 trees on campus and recently updated and published a new Tree Care Plan. 

Trees on campus and in urban spaces can lower energy costs by providing shade, cleaner air and water, and green spaces for students and faculty. In addition, trees improve students’ mental and cognitive health, provide an appealing aesthetic for campuses, and create shaded areas for studying and gathering making their care a high priority. 

If you are interested in being involved, stay on the lookout for information on how you or your groups can participate in our annual Arbor Day observance tree planting in May, or reach out to Hannah Remke, Sustainability Coordinator at hannah.remke@drake.edu. You can also visit the Tree Campus Higher Education page on Drake’s Sustainability website. 

 — Hannah Remke, Sustainability Coordinator