Project Summary:

The Northern Arizona University Landscape and Outdoor Services (LOS) department is modernizing its daily operations by incorporating fully electric utility vehicles into its fleet. Guided by LOS Manager Matthew Espino, this initiative replaces an aging, heavily used 2007 gasoline-powered John Deere Gator with a new, zero-emission electric model. Historically, the replaced gas vehicle required thousands of dollars in annual maintenance and continuous fuel consumption while operating up to eight hours a day across campus. By transitioning to battery-powered transportation, the LOS team is permanently eliminating localized fuel emissions and dramatically reducing the noise pollution associated with grounds maintenance. This successful equipment upgrade ensures groundskeeping staff can efficiently transport personnel and materials to various job sites while directly advancing the university’s overarching sustainability and carbon-reduction targets.

Project Lead:

Matthew Espino

Project Advisor:

Timothy S. Elliott

Date:

2026-01-30

Funding Amount:

$22,601.96

Department:

Landscape and Outdoor Services

Supporting Documents