UTM is located on 225 acres of largely undeveloped land overlooking the Credit River Valley. Thoughtful stewardship of this unique setting is a fundamental part of the campus Master Plan, most recently updated in 2021. Large areas of the campus have been designated “Protected, Naturalized Research Space” and are protected against development.
“Grow Smart, Grow Green” is the guiding principle for campus development, balancing the need for growth with environmental sensitivity and responsibility. As a microcosm for the pressures of urban growth, UTM remains committed to proving that expansion and development can be accomplished in an environmentally sensitive and responsible manner. “Grow Smart, Grow Green” provides a framework to guide all our decisions that may impact our environment.
UTM is well-known for its beautiful natural setting, located along the banks of the Credit River. Wildlife such as squirrels, groundhogs, possums, raccoons, rabbits and deer are commonly seen on campus.
Since 2004, more than 20 sites on campus have been removed from mowing and planted with native species of trees and wildflowers. Removal of invasive species from these sites as well as stewardship and monitoring of these naturalized areas is ongoing.
In addition, UTM's newest stormwater management pond (at the south end of campus by parking lot 4) collects all campus stormwater runoff (water that is not absorbed by the ground and runs off of impervious areas like buildings and parking lots). The water is then naturally filtered to remove contaminants before the water enters the Credit River. The pond provides a habitat for wildlife and is one of the best bird-watching spots on campus. Monitoring of the pond's water quality is ongoing.
Seven of UTM's buildings have green roofs (roofs that are planted with vegetation): CCT (over the parking garage), the Hazel McCallion Academic Learning Centre, Instructional Centre, Health Sciences Complex, the RAWC, Innovation Complex and Deerfield Hall. Green roofs have many benefits, including insulating the building, reducing the urban heat island effect, improving stormwater quality, reducing runoff, and providing habitat for wildlife.