When you wash your hands, brush your teeth or wash dishes, do you leave the water running? Are the lights on in rooms when they are not needed? Do you leave the computer on when you walk away? Does your printer power off when the computer is shut off? Are you using the elevator or stairs?
Are you aware that your microwave, DVD player and VCR and other electrical appliances, even when not in operation, continue to use energy if they have a clock? Are there any appliances that you can unplug to lessen energy usage?
Did you know the average home can save $300 per year by switching to florescent light bulbs?
At one of our campgrounds, we replaced one of the water heaters with a more energy efficient model and cut our energy bill during the last camping season by more than $300.
All new PRD buildings will have a "green" design. Water conservation and the use of recycled materials are just two of the features of the new designs. The new buildings that will exceed minimal standards will be at Grand Haven, Mackinaw City Harbor and Otsego Lake. The first two projects aer in construction and Otsego Lake is scheduled for later in 2008.
Over the past two years, 54 park/harbor locations began installing more energy efficient windows, doors, weather stripping, low flow toilets, solar lighting and programmable thermostats. We are looking at all our offices, restrooms and other buildings for ways to save energy.
We've identified 35 locations where the HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) systems need replacing. As monies become available replacements will begin.
In the paper or plastic debate -- plastic seems to be winning. It is estimated that over 100 billion plastic shopping bags are used each year in the United States -- about one-fifth of the total used worldwide. These bags are made from petroleum, and they take hundreds of years to degrade in a landfill. Less than one percent of these bags are recycled. If we are not using reusable bags for shopping; let's start recycling the plastic ones. (And don't forget those plastic bags for fruit and vegetables, and frozen food, sandwich bags...). Just look around your home and you will be surprised to see how many items come packaged in plastic.
All state parks have begun recycling programs in their campgrounds. So have state harbors. We recycle paper, cardboard, polystyrene, batteries, florescent lights, tires, furniture and appliances.
Many park and recreation division tractors and trucks are using bio-diesel fuel. When a truck is turned in, we determine if a Gator or Mule can take its place. We are using bio-based oils, lubricants and degreasers with our equipment.
Many locations are using "green" cleaning products. These contain a green seal. And we are beginning to use metering devices with those chemicals so the proper amount is used.
We are reevaluating our areas where grass is mowed. The "grow-not-mow" reduces the use of fossil fuel and emissions. And grass is healthier at 3- to 3.5-inches long. Mowing grass to the proper height is the single most important thing we can do to keep it healthy.
Ash trees that had to be removed from impacted areas were milled for interior use at 16 camper cabins that are being built or have been completed saving $21,000.
One large wind turbine can produce enough energy to power 600 homes. PRD is looking at alternative sources of energy such as wind and solar to provide power at our facilities. A smaller wind turbine is being considered to provide power at Mackinaw City Harbor.
Last season, one park routinely asked campers to power down lights and air conditioners in the evening. We received many positive comments about how peaceful and dark the campground became at night. So, please turn off the lights. Do we really need all the noise?
We are using the controlled temperature of the earth (geothermal heating and cooling) at the Bay City Recreation Area visitor center, Rifle River Recreation Area headquarters and it is planned for installation at Tawas Point State Park lighthouse.
At Port Crescent State Park, the hot water supply in a toilet /shower building is supplemented with water heated by the sun's energy.
Did you know that planting shade trees on the east and west side of your home will keep it cooler in summer? And if you plant evergreens on the northwest side of your home you will keep your home warmer in winter thereby using less energy and saving money. Try to plant trees and shrubs that are native to the area.
Below are a few fact sheets on insulation that you may find beneficial:
Parks and Recreation Division, and other DNR divisions, are looking for ways to conserve the natural resources of our Earth. But we all need to get involved. Wouldn't it be nice if Michigan would lead the country in the conservation of resources and recycling of resources?
These are just a few ways that PRD is working to become more "green." Can you add any that you or your family have found that can be shared with others? Send them to us.
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