University of California, San Diego Native Plant Educational Garden
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
As the third largest consumer of water in the City's service area, UC San Diego's use of water has a tremendous impact not only on campus but on the greater regional community. It is with this in mind that we propose the creation of a drought-tolerant native plant garden that would both alleviate the problem of water shortages and adhere to the University's educational mission. As San Diego enters the third consecutive year of drought, coupled with imminent water shortages, the need to educate the campus and the surrounding community about the importance of drought-tolerant and native plant landscaping has never been more necessary.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The garden would be located at a central, visible location on the campus and would be comprised of only native, drought-tolerant species. Diverse and colorful species of flowers, trees, and shrubs would be planted to communicate the beauty of native plants and entice the beholders with the idea of turf replacement.
Additionally, this garden would truly be part of UC San Diego's mission to utilize and expand technology by incorporating high tech elements, such as a video podcast tour that would be accessible on the internet for free.
The proposed native plant garden would save water, serve as an example of turf replacement, educate about native plants, attract fauna and bee populations, and bring together the UCSD, La Jolla, and San Diego communities.
We the undersigned request UCSD approve and establish a native plant water conservation garden on campus. This garden shall replace water-intensive grass landscaping and serve as a model for the surrounding community to follow. The garden shall be placed in a prominent and easily accessible location on main campus, such as the Faculty Club lawn across from Sungod statue. Due to the current drought in California, we request that action is taken as quickly as possible to implement the garden and other water conservation efforts at UCSD.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
