At the University of Iowa, sustainability can take many forms. It can be found in the way campus landscapes are designed, the species of trees planted, the protection of natural resources, and the connections people build with the environment around them.

For Andrew Dahl, Urban Forestry Supervisor and Campus Arborist with Landscape Services, sustainability is deeply rooted in the interconnectedness of people and the natural world. Dahl has been part of the University community for almost 27 years, dedicating much of that time to caring for and strengthening Iowa’s campus landscape.

Connecting People and Nature

When asked what sustainability means to him, Dahl turns to a quote attributed to Chief Seattle: “Humankind has not woven the web of life. We are but one thread within it.” For Dahl, the message captures an important principle of sustainability: everything is connected.

Dahl says that perspective began at a young age after watching an oak savanna being cleared to become a cornfield. “Even then, nearly 50 years ago, it didn’t feel right. It still doesn’t to this day.”

Today, Dahl puts that commitment into action across campus. Landscape Services plants hundreds of trees each year, emphasizes tree species diversity, and has planted pollinator gardens, two Miyawaki forests, and a riparian buffer strip. The department has also worked to reduce pesticide use through landscape design and plant selection.

Every Tree Has a Story

Dahls work connects naturally with Iowa Tree Stories, a University of Iowa initiative that invites the community to share the stories, memories, and experiences connected to trees across campus and the surrounding community.

For Dahl, trees are more than landscape features—they are tangible examples of the long-term impact of sustainability. He finds it especially rewarding to see trees planted decades ago grow into mature ecosystems supporting birds, insects, and other forms of life.

Iowa Tree Stories provides an opportunity to recognize those connections and celebrate the trees that have become meaningful parts of our community.

Start Small

Dahl encourages staff to make sustainability part of their everyday routines. His advice is simple: “Do something small and incorporate [it] into your routine.” That could mean riding a bike to work, recycling, trying composting, volunteering, or planting a tree.

He also encourages staff to connect with the Office of Sustainability and the Environment to learn about volunteer opportunities, tours, lectures, and other sustainability initiatives.

As Dahl puts it, “Kind of like being a tree… Even if the initial response is NO that can change over time.”

Explore Iowa Tree Stories and discover the trees—and the stories—that help make our campus community special.