The bioswales installed in 2007 at the Yue-Kong Pao Hall, housing the Rueff School of Visual & Performing Arts, were the first true bioswales on campus. When the gravel parking lot was converted to the paved version, bioswales became natural and cost-effective solution. The bioswales were designed to capture and control the flow of surface water runoff, and to treat the water by allowing vegetation to filter oil and grease pollutants. A dense planting of native grasses and perennials was surrounded by shrubs and trees, which helped the native plants better fit into the campus landscapes. By allowing natural filtration of pollutants, the bioswale prevents impurities from flowing into the local Harrison pond and municipal sewers, helping alleviate stress on aquatic life. Bioswales typically require very little water and care, are resistant to local pests and disease, and enhance bio-diversity. Office of University Sustainability
