UNC and Greeley Team Up to Save Water

Drought-resilient landscape project could save 2.6 million gallons of water.

GREELEY, Colo. - The University of Northern Colorado (UNC) and Greeley's water conservation team are working to create a drought-resistant landscape north of the University Center at 11th Avenue and West 20th Street. The project covers 3.4 acres and is a gateway into the university's central campus.

A Vision for Sustainability

UNC expects to save around 2.6 million gallons of water each year, equivalent to the amount needed to supply water to 67 homes annually.

Creating an area that conserves water, reduces the need for fertilizers, and lowers maintenance costs started in 2021 when two nonprofit organizations, Western Resource Advocates and WaterNow Alliance, reached out to Dena Egenhoff, Greeley's water conservation manager. They asked if the city had an area that could be part of a turf replacement project like those in Westminster and Broomfield.

Egenhoff worked with Sarah Boyd, UNC's landscaping manager, to select a section of land near the well-known bronze bear sculpture. The city donated that land to UNC in September 1960.

Student Leadership Drives the Project

The project gained momentum when students in UNC's Leadership and Community Building class chose it as their final project in the spring of 2022. They wanted a drought-friendly area on the west side of campus and asked other students what features they wanted to see.

"It's the students who are going to use the space the most, so their feedback was invaluable," Egenhoff said.

Development Takes Time

The project began around Thanksgiving, with crews leveling the hill to build a new patio, pathway, and irrigation system. In the spring, workers will plant drought-resistant grass in the area. It will take about a year to establish and one to two more years to fully grow.

Model for Other Institutions

This project is a model for other schools and cities, showing how replacing grass with sustainable landscaping can save water and help the environment.

Follow the project at unco.edu/facilities/services/landscaping-grounds/water-conservation.aspx.

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