DUDEK - University of California

Preserving and Managing Mature Tree Grove on University Campus

Challenge: Faced with preserving mature eucalyptus groves for future enjoyment, University of California at San Diego (UCSD) needed a multi-faceted plan to address the trees’ growing pains.

Project Scope: Dudek prepared a comprehensive grove management plan for the 125 acre site.

Resolution: Due to their characteristically speedy growth, groves of eucalyptus trees were planted throughout Southern California in the early 20th century to be used as railway ties. When it became clear the trees’ brittle, easily warped wood was unsuitable for railway construction, some land was abandoned. UCSD acquired a multi-acre parcel of abandoned groves in the 1960s, and the school was constructed around the trees to preserve the historically significant species. The school, faced with addressing uncontrolled and unmonitored growth within the groves, turned to Dudek to prepare a comprehensive management plan that addressed:

Tree removal and replacement for improving grove health and sustainability
Tree maintenance issues
Irrigation strategies
Pest and disease control
Fire management
Wildlife preservation
Preservation of adjacent native plant habitats
Recreational opportunities
Artistic grove utilization

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