Photo by Chris Meyer

On those hot, humid days in summer when temperatures soar upwards of 90 degrees, Indianapolis will call for an Ozone Action Day (OAD). City residents are asked to avoid mowing their grass or filling their vehicles with gasoline before 6 p.m.

So, how does a university handle OAD requirements and still maintain their grounds in an acceptable manner?

Recently, the federal government developed impending air quality controls that all states will be required to follow. However, to date, these controls have not been made mandatory by the federal government. Participation in the program is voluntary at this time. "Campus Facility Services believes firmly that because IUPUI is a leader in neighborhood relations in the downtown community, it is important that we take the lead in this program," said Emily Wren, assistant vice chancellor for facilities.

Craig McKinney, assistant director of the Grounds Department, stressed the importance of protecting the environment by developing and following the CFS OAD standards of operation. The standards were implemented in 2003 and will continue to be followed in 2004. "We are always looking for ways to reduce emissions and improve service. These standards certainly help us to accomplish our goals" McKinney stated.

The Grounds Department Ozone Action Days Standards will reduce the number of gas motorized equipment by 22 pieces (trucks, tractors, weed eaters, trimmers and edgers, for example). During the last two years, the Grounds Department has increased the number of diesel-powered mowers and other equipment because diesel is more environmentally friendly.

"I commend CFS for instituting an Ozone Action Plan for the IUPUI campus," said Lenore Tedesco, associate professor of geology and director of the Center for Earth and Environmental Science at IUPUI. "This initiative is an excellent example of how IUPUI can modify current practices to lessen the campus' environmental impact. As director of the Center for Earth and Environmental Science, I look forward to continuing to work with CFS on environmental and conservation programs that will enhance our campus and community".

Strong

"Anything that we can do to contribute to improving the environment is the right thing to do," said Rich Strong, director of environmental health and safety at IUPUI. "I congratulate CFS and the Grounds Department on their efforts to observe the OAD."