Preserving UT’s Natural Beauty
A longtime distinguishing feature of The University of Toledo is the campus’s exquisite natural scenery, which has appealed to prospective students for decades. This includes the magnificent Ottawa River, which runs through the main campus.
The President’s Commission on the River was established in 2005 and strives to maximize the river’s natural beauty, leisure-time use, and scientific and environmental exploration. Under current UT president, Dr. Lloyd Jacobs, the Commission engages students, faculty and community members to review and implement project proposals related to the group’s core goals and values. Using only financial support from charitable funds, private donations and commitments, the group has proudly started making a difference.
“Our main objective is to use our expertise and collaborate with the community to address the impact human activity and land uses have on the Ottawa River,” says Patrick Lawrence, PhD, Chairman of the President’s Commission on the River. “Small projects will make a big difference in sustaining the river and enhancing UT’s scenic appeal.”
The Commission works on projects year round, most recently the development of two rain gardens. “The new gardens are designed to hold, slow down, filter and reduce polluted storm water runoff into the river,” says Dr. Lawrence. “The rain gardens will also help students study water quality and environmental sustainability practices.”
Through another recent project, the Commission helped build two river overlooks near the David Root Bridge and Savage Arena, which allow viewers to gain a new perspective on the river’s natural beauty.
To learn more about the President's Commission on the River or to see how you can get involved, call (877) 451-2299.
