UTM’s 225-acre campus along the Credit River Valley is one of its greatest assets — and protecting this natural space is central to everything we do.
Guided by the principle of Grow Smart, Grow Green, the UTM Campus Master Plan balances the university’s growth with environmental responsibility. Many areas of the campus are officially designated Protected, Naturalized Research Spaces, ensuring they remain preserved and untouched by future development.
Nature and Wildlife on Campus
UTM is home to a wide variety of wildlife, making the campus a vibrant natural environment. Common species you might spot include:
- Squirrels
- Groundhogs
- Possums
- Raccoons
- Rabbits
- Deer (often mothers with fawns)
Environmental Initiatives at UTM
Invasive Species Management
Since 2004, over 20 campus sites have been naturalized with native trees and wildflowers. These areas are actively maintained through invasive species removal, stewardship, and ongoing habitat monitoring.
Stormwater Management
The stormwater management pond, located near Parking Lot 4, naturally filters runoff from campus buildings and roads before it reaches the Credit River. This pond also serves as one of the best bird-watching spots on campus.
Green Roofs
Seven UTM buildings feature green roofs — specially planted rooftops that provide insulation, reduce the urban heat island effect, improve stormwater quality, and create additional habitat for wildlife.
Buildings with green roofs include:
- CCT (over the parking garage)
- Hazel McCallion Academic Learning Centre
- Instructional Centre
- Health Sciences Complex
- RAWC
- Innovation Complex
- Deerfield Hall
Why It Matters
Each of these initiatives plays a crucial role in reducing UTM’s environmental footprint. Together, they reflect the university’s strong, ongoing commitment to sustainability, biodiversity, and climate action — ensuring UTM’s beautiful natural setting is protected for generations to come.