OSU’s main campus includes a variety of natural features including creeks, wetlands, mature tree groves, and open space areas.  Some of these features are subject to local, state, and federal regulations that have implications for land use, management, and development.  Local and federal protected areas surround Oak Creek along the entire length of the waterway, limiting development in these areas.  The city of Corvallis has identified and classified five stands of trees on campus as Highly Protected Significant Vegetation (HPSV), which provides additional protections implemented by the Corvallis Land Development Code (LDC).  In addition to the HPSV areas, the LDC outlines protections for trees defined by the code as significant or historically significant.  On campus there are a number of individual trees that are listed as historically significant given their age or association with the university.  Others meet the criteria for significant trees based on their size and location.  Removal of significant and historically significant trees can be done only if certain criteria are met.

University Land Use Planning staff assist Project Managers on mapping (GIS) natural features, identifying site constraints, determining regulatory parameters, and preparing plans/documents as needed.