UNI provides students with a new way to hang out
UNI provides students with a new way to hang out
Hammocking for students is a popular way to relax on campus. Many times, you can find students in between the trees, near the Campanile, or by the Curris Business Building. However, the traditional way of setting up a spot to relax among the trees can come with its drawbacks, including increased foot traffic on vegetation, external damage to the trees, and difficulty finding a spot.
In July, UNI Facilities Management collaborated with UNI Housing and Dining to provide students with a new way to hammock on campus. “We worked together to provide students with a safe and enjoyable alternative for relaxation and community-building,” said Jonathan Butler, the assistant director of Campus Services.
“We worked together to provide students with a safe and enjoyable alternative for relaxation and community-building,” said Jonathan Butler, the assistant director of Campus Services.
UNI Facilities added new hammock poles for the benefit of campus greenery and students. The poles provide a secure, non-slip structure for each end of the hammock, reducing risks of injury. Since different types of people and their hammocks require varied heights and preferences, the hammock poles also allow customization. Three bands near the top of the poles provide different levels of hanging, allowing for more than one hammock on each pole. Two poles set farther apart also allow for slacklining, the sport of balancing along a suspended length, tensioned between two anchors.
Along with new opportunities for the on-campus hammocking experience, damaging trees and other vegetation on the university’s grounds is not a concern. “Using hammock poles helps preserve campus greenery. Students can enjoy the relaxation of hammocks without damaging trees or other vegetation,” says Butler. With the alternative method to hammocking, damage to the tree’s bark will decline and foot traffic will decrease, making it easier for roots to deliver water and nutrients. Not to mention, some limbs are not strong enough to support the activity, which can ultimately harm the tree and its user.
“Using hammock poles helps preserve campus greenery. Students can enjoy the relaxation of hammocks without damaging trees or other vegetation,” says Butler.
Whether looking for a spot on campus to relax or an activity to try out with friends, the new hammock poles, located next to Hagemann Hall, might be the perfect opportunity. With the option to check out a hammock from Rod Library, everyone has the ability to hang out on campus.
