CSU Northridge Takes Initiative to Address CA Drought Conditions with New Technology on 8.7 Acres of Soccer Fields and Event Venues
Challenges
Sustainability at CSUN is a campus-wide effort where the Campus is constantly looking to find innovative sustainable practices. After embarking on turf removal and native planting, where it made sense, they turned to finding sustainable water-savings solutions in areas where grass is required for recreation. Aqua Cents® was utilized to save up to 50% water use on two Campus Soccer venues. The University’s utility provider, LADWP, came to Campus to witness the technology and installation, and has integrated Aqua Cents into the City’s water savings incentive program.
The Campus also utilized Aqua Cents® in the Sierra Lawn, a large area adjoining the Oviatt Library,that is often used for student relaxation and high-traffic events. The goal at this site was to maintain the grass for student recreation and relaxation and to be able to keep root zones moist while still being able to host large student gatherings and events.
Solution
Utilizing Aqua Cents® CSUN reported up to 60% water savings while maintaining healthy turf on the Soccer Fields and Sierra Lawns.
Results
Utilizing Aqua Cents® CSUN reports up to 60% water savings, while maintaining healthy turf on the Soccer Fields and Sierra Lawns.
Key Benefits
Reduce irrigation 35%-50% on East and North Soccer Field venues
Maintain water availability to root zones while keeping a dryer playing surface or event venue
Creation of an environment for student interaction and relaxation while reducing water use
“After seeing the success of Aqua Cents® at Fresno State’s Campus, we wanted to set up a trial project at CSUN. We were already working on reducing water usage, but wanted to keep turf on athletic fields – and keep it green. We looked first at our East Field, in March 2015. The proposal from Aqua Cents promised a 50% reduction in irrigation after the agricultural grade hydrogel was injected under the sod. In two weeks, we saw 60%-70% reduction.”
Austin Erikkson
Associate VP Facilities Management, CSUN July 2015
“We extended our use of Aqua Cents® to the North Field and Oviatt Quad in July, 2015. In addition to complying with all state and local water restriction mandates, the college’s conservation goals for the 23 campuses under one chancellor are 10% reduction by 2016, and 20% reduction by 2020. Aqua Cents® has moved us in a good direction toward this goal. It is a straight-forward product, a very easy system, and we are getting great results.”
James Logsdon
Manager of Grounds and Events, CSUN August 2015