The North Hill at the University of Northern Colorado, located near the University Center, is a prominent landscape at the heart of campus, visible to both students and passersby on 11th and 20th Avenues. As part of the university’s initiative to reduce water usage across campus, the North Hill, currently dominated by turf, will be transformed into a water-efficient native landscape. This transformation will enhance social interaction among students, provide a space for post-event gatherings following activities at the University Center, and showcase best practices for turf conversion. Planned improvements include replacing the existing bluegrass with native grasses, installing water-efficient irrigation, creating a new gathering terrace for students and after-event functions, adding a hammock area, and incorporating spaces for student art displays.
In light of recent legislation such as Senate Bill 24-005, organizations across Colorado are increasingly looking for ways to evaluate and implement water conservation in the landscapes they manage. A unique comparative analysis tool has been developed to assist in this process, offering a detailed breakdown of demolition, revegetation, and maintenance costs, along with annual water savings and return-on-investment timelines. This tool is helping guide the transition of water-consuming landscapes to sustainable, water-conserving environments.
Office: Norris Design
Client: University of Northern Colorado
Contributions: Project director, lead designer, CPRA conference speaking session
