MSU’s East Lansing campus is an urban arboretum home to more than 20,000 trees of various species, including white oak, Norway spruce, eastern white pine, and many others. But what happens when trees need to be removed due to damage, safety issues or new construction?
The benches outside Erickson Hall, made from trees felled on MSU’s campus, were built in conjunction with the College of Education.
IPF Arborists, in ongoing collaboration with the Forestry Department, Office of Sustainable Development, and Beal Botanical Garden, are committed to not only maintaining but improving our arboretum by following a one-for-one replacement policy. with various species of trees that thrive in Michigan. Over 300 trees were planted in 2020 alone.
Trees that are removed are not discarded, but are used in various ways. Some is made into mulch, which is then used in MSU’s landscaping beds. Others are used for more creative pursuits and are turned into beautiful furniture by local artisans as part of the MSU Shadows collection.
IPF Landscaping Services also uses felled trees to make outdoor furniture that remains here on campus. Last year, IPF worked with the College of Education to install seating outside Erickson Hall, and recently worked with the College of Veterinary Medicine to create more modern style rooms.
For the full story, visit ipf.msu.edu
