The University commissioned Wolf Josey to assess trees and soils at Abele Quad in response to the decline of the willow oak canopy and the negative impacts that recently installed sand-based soils were having on turf grass and plant health. 

Wolf Josey established a clear short- and long-term tree plan and developed a framework for managing and re-mediating existing soils.  The resulting Tree and Soil Framework Plan returns to regional loam-based soils and diversifies the existing willow oak tree canopy with longer-lived oak species. The original layout and planting design was led by the Olmsted Brothers firm in the 1920s and 30s.  The Plans contribute to the Olmsted design intentions while creating the adaptation necessary to face contemporary pressures and University needs.