College in Iowa installs green roof on student union

Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has installed a green roof on top of one of its campus buildings.

KCRG-TV reports that the roof is being planted on the Gage Memorial Union building in an effort to keep rainwater from running off onto the campus’ three miles of sidewalk.

“These plants will help us in a lot of different places to keep the water from going into the storm drains,” says Grounds Manager Chad Sunner.

The plants selected for the green roof require little water or maintenance. 

In trecent years, the college has put in rain gardens, which also hold water from making its way to the storm drains.

Other water-conserving steps Coe has taken:

• Renovations and new construction are incorporating low flow faucets, urinals, and toilets
•  A patio with permeable pavers has been installed near Hickok Hall, so that water to infiltrate the ground below rather than running off.
• Water sensors track rainfall and adjust sprinkler use accordingly

Video from Coe College: