In support of the University’s Strategic Plan, the Grounds Department has begun the transition from fossil fuel powered grounds equipment to electric-based equipment. This initiative includes transitioning to electric backpack blowers, string trimmers, a zero turn mower, two push lawn mowers, pole saws, and chainsaws. Grounds has also begun replacing gas-powered salt sanders with electric sanders. 

The Grounds Department at Brown practices Integrated Pest Management (IPM), recommended for schools by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for effective and environmentally sensitive pest control methods. The EPA calls this method, “a smart, sensible, and sustainable approach to pest control.” In keeping with this philosophy, the Grounds Department also prioritizes the application of organic fertilizers and pesticides.

Brown prides itself in maintaining numerous green spaces and gardens in an urban setting. This includes several rain gardens around campus buildings, three rooftop gardens and annually planting over 1000 flowering plants throughout campus; a great food source for many pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The University maintains the grounds through a sophisticated irrigation system that can operate based on rainfall and evapotranspiration rates (ET).