All across the Chapman campus in Orange, the university’s commitment to water conservation is in full flower.

Those efforts first ramped up eight years ago, when it became clear that cycles of drought would persist in Southern California. Since then, Chapman has implemented a wide range of water-wise strategies to conserve this precious resource.

As the new academic year brings students back to campus, visitors will notice that Chapman is taking additional water-conservation steps every day.

“These steps show our commitment to conserving water in all the areas we can control and in the ways that have the most impact,” said Jenny Kaufman, manager of energy conservation and sustainability at Chapman. “We want to lead the charge on conservation and efficiency.”

In 2014, the city announced water restrictions as a response to deepening drought conditions. Chapman immediately complied as it also started developing long-term strategies that anticipated further challenges ahead.

Over the ensuing eight years, the university has implemented a host of water-saving measures designed to meet the needs of the moment and those to come. Together, these actions have saved and continue to conserve hundreds of thousands of gallons of water each year. As an example of the impact, at Kennedy Hall and the Bhathal Student Services Center alone, the shift to drought-tolerant landscaping and drip irrigation saves more than 575,000 gallons annually.

“We’re taking responsibility for our water and energy footprint,” Kaufman said. “Hopefully our eff orts can serve as an example for students and others in our community.” Learn more at Chapman.edu/conservation.