Landscape Services

Clemson University is dedicated to maintaining a safe, attractive, and sustainable campus forest that serves as a resource for education, relaxation, and recreation. To achieve this, University Facilities oversees the university's implementation of the Main Campus Urban Forest and Landscape Management Policy and Plan . It supports this commitment by requiring all projects affecting campus trees to comply with specific guidelines. Enforcing these guidelines ensures the preservation and enhancement of the campus's tree canopy.

The Policy

The policy aims to achieve zero net loss of tree canopy by preserving existing trees and planting new ones. It addresses potential damage to trees from various activities and emphasizes careful planning and review of construction projects to prevent or mitigate tree damage. The university’s active tree management program integrates tree protection and preservation as essential components to maintain the campus’s aesthetic and functional benefits.

The Plan

Clemson University’s guidelines for managing its campus forest focus on the careful removal of trees only when necessary—such as when they are dead, diseased, or pose safety hazards. The Director of Landscape Services is responsible for determining when a tree meets these conditions. The guidelines also outline prohibited practices that can damage trees (e.g., nailing objects to trunks or driving over root zones) and specify penalties for such damage.

For construction projects, a Tree Protection Plan is required to safeguard existing trees. This plan includes detailed measures for protecting trees during construction, such as installing protective fencing and avoiding root damage. The University Project Manager and University Arborist monitor compliance with these guidelines, ensuring that trees remain healthy and any damage is addressed promptly.