University Biodiversity
The Belfield Campus extends over 130 hectares and has an established reputation for its natural landscapes, sylvan setting, native and exotic species.
In conserving, consolidating, and enriching that character of the campus, the University promotes biodiversity and recognises the importance of ensuring minimum adverse impact on the environment.
As part of the ongoing biodiversity and tree management programme, the University has identified ecological resources on campus including the various flora and fauna, landscapes and ecosystems. By developing a process by which ecological values can be integrated into landscape design and the planning of new buildings, UCD can ensure the continued expansion and long term survival of its complex ecological conduits and species.
The UCD Capital Development Programme has prompted an exciting project to transplant specimen trees and species to more suitable locations across the Belfield Campus. To date the successful relocation of trees have included the creation of a new lime grove to the rear of the Glenomena Residences and a number of young Walnut trees to the front of Merville House. In cases, where the trees can not be transplanted, new sections of the boundary woodland are planted in the following seasons to reflect a similar species mix and to counterbalance any potential loss of tree cover to the Campus.
The University has recently commenced enabling works for the next phase of the UCD Science Centre Development. These works will coincide with the relocation of a rare parasitic plant the Common Broomrape and its host plant the Olearia Macrodonta to more suitable locations on the campus. This species will be relocated alongside additional Olearia Macrodonta to form part of the extension to the Boundary Woodland Walk.
Additional ongoing works aimed to improve the campus landscape include the concurrent planting of trees in the UCD Arboretum. The Arboretum is a living museum and a refuge of great beauty where visitors can step away from their busy lives and reconnect with nature. Adjacent to the UCD Creche, the Arboretum has recently seen the inclusion of a new birch walk and incorporates a rare variety of variegated oak, cedar, and a rare Cupressus macrocarpa. The Arbetorum enhances local biodiversity and promotes the aesthetic values of both indigenous and exotic species.
Pictures of the UCD Arboretum and associated Boundary Woodland Walk.
