Made by Hand
A LAUDED LANDSCAPE
The Oregonian called it “one of the state’s most pleasant urban walks.” Students regularly cite it as one of the main reasons they chose to attend Willamette. But the university’s physical landscape is more than a stunning backdrop — it also shows Willamette’s commitment to sustainability starts at ground level. In 2007, the university became the first Oregon institution to adopt organic landscape management for its entire contiguous campus — all 40 acres. An organic landscape is healthier for people, wildlife and the environment, as well as being cheaper and more efficient to maintain. Plus, instead of simply walking through the spectacular scenery, Willamette community members can actively use and enjoy it. Students read under the tall trees and play frisbee on the lawns. Staff and faculty eat their lunch in the peaceful surroundings of the Martha Springer Botanical Garden or stop and take a blissful breath in the Rose Garden. As Jim Andersen, grounds manager, says, “We’ve made this a special place.”
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SPRING 2017
Above: Grounds manager Jim Andersen with his dog, Pete; above right: groundskeeper Alfonso Guzman working in the Sesquicentennial Rose Garden.