Begin:  Wednesday, November 12, 2025

Building(s) or Area(s) Affected:  CPFM Administration Building Picnic Table Area

Scope:  Exciting news for the University of Oregon’s Campus Planning and Facilities Management (CPFM) team: a Level 2 charging station is being installed for the new Natural Areas Program Polaris XD. The charging station will be located just south of the CPFM Administration Building, near the picnic table, which remains at the south-east corner of the lot. During the 2024–2025 school year, 363 volunteers came together to remove more than 24 truckloads of invasive species from UO’s natural areas. In addition to this critical restoration work, the team planted 194 trees and shrubs friendly to pollinators and wildlife, helping to enhance biodiversity on campus. The program also hosted 21 events, providing hands-on educational experiences for 384 participants. To help meet the demands of this increased capacity, the program is piloting the use of an electric Polaris XD Pro—similar to the Kubota UTVs used by the Landscape and Grounds team. This vehicle will be used to transport invasive plant material, native species, water, and educational materials in and out of the natural areas efficiently and sustainably. This milestone reflects the ongoing collaboration between CPFM staff, faculty, students, and dedicated volunteers. Their shared commitment to sustainability and education continues to drive meaningful progress. Here’s to another year of innovation, impact, and community in the natural areas!

Services Impacted:  Users of the CPFM picnic table may notice the presence of the Polaris.

Work Performed By:  CPFM Electrical Crew

Contact:  Emily Hamblen, CPFM Sustainability, Campus Natural Areas Steward, 541-346-6329

Current construction and impacts information can be found on the UO Maps site.