William Paterson University

Approximately 200 trees, mostly native species, are currently being planted across the William Paterson University campus, an initiative that will boost climate resilience while creating numerous new shaded outdoor learning and gathering spaces.

The project is directed by William Paterson professors Nicole Davi, environmental science, and Marianne Sullivan, public health, in collaboration with James Shelley, the University’s associate vice president for administration, as well as the institution’s physical plant operations team.

The initiative is funded by a Trees for Schools program grant of nearly $250,000. The program is a joint effort of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Sustainable Jersey, and The College of New Jersey, and funded through the New Jersey Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.

In addition, the University has been named a Tree Campus by the Arbor Day Foundation for its dedication to enhancing community well-being through tree education, investment, and community engagement. The Tree Campus program recognizes schools, universities, and healthcare facilities that utilize trees to improve their communities. 

Planting began earlier this month at multiple locations. A wide variety of tree species are being planted, including American elm, holly, white oak, sweetgum, black gum/tupelo, magnolia, tulip, bald cypress, Atlantic white cedar, and Kentucky coffee tree. Some trees are being strategically placed near parking lots to reduce heat island effects and near buildings to provide shade and lower energy use and carbon emissions.

One area on the lawn adjacent to Science Hall West features tree species that produce edible nuts, including hickory, black walnut, hazelnut, and American chestnut. The “nut orchard” will provide a hands-on outdoor laboratory where students can learn about the role that native trees play in supporting pollinators and the health benefits of the fruits and nuts that trees produce. Faculty from across the University are welcome and encopuraged to incorporate the nut orchard or other campus trees into the curriculum and experiential learning.

The team worked with a local arborist, Paul Cowie and Associates, which provided expert advice in selecting which species would thrive on the campus.

Environmental science students will work with faculty to conduct a campus tree inventory, assess campus tree species diversity, and measure carbon storage. Courses in public health will integrate sessions on how trees and green spaces support mental and physical health, support pollinators and food systems, and promote environmental justice.

The grant covers costs associated with the purchase and planting of the trees including planning, site preparation, watering, monitoring, and maintenance over a three-year period. The University is responsible for long-term care of the trees.