Minutes

Meeting Minutes 6/16/09

Members present: Cliff Koski, Deanne Roquet, Jim Drake, Britt Johnson.

Suzanne Semborski from Human Resources was also in attendance to discuss duty day.

Old Business

Schools Cutting Carbon: Deanne reported the Schools Cutting Carbon report from ERM has been received. Deanne will make the report available to others.

Environmental Council Website: Deanne met with Steve Fudally regarding the Environmental Council website. She is requesting other Environmental Council members look over the website and provide feedback.

Duty Day: Suzanne Semborski from LSC Human Resources was present to discuss details of the fall duty day.

The Environmental Council is responsible for arranging speakers and topics, and providing a written summary of each topic and schedule to Suzanne by August 1, 2009. Suzanne will do the remaining arrangements.

Deanne is still working to locate the remaining funds for Deb Rowe. Wade will work with Suzanne to put together a contract with Deb for duty day.

Cliff will contact Kathleen Nelson regarding the welcome and introduction speech.

Coffee will be served at the duty day, but no disposable cups will be provided. Employees will be asked to bring their own coffee cups. Extra coffee cups will be collected and available to employees that forget or do not have their own reusable coffee cup.

Potential schedule:

· 8:30 – 9:00 – Kathleen Nelson – Welcome and introduction to the Presidents Climate Commitment

· 9:00- 10:30 – Deb Rowe – Key Note Speech to make employees aware of the Presidents Climate Commitment, and how the greenhouse gas emissions inventory leads into the climate plan.

· 10:30 – 10:45 – Break

· 10:45 – 11:30 – Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Summary and Clicker Commuting Survey

· 11:30 – 12:30 – Lunch

· 12:30 – 3:30 – Five or six concurrent breakout sessions (Either 1 or 1.5 hours each) to engage employees here at LSC and at home to work toward the goals of the climate plan.

· TBD – Public evening session with Deb Rowe

· TBD – Deb Rowe meeting with Kathleen Nelson, Environmental Council, and others

Potential Break-out Session topics:

· Deb Rose – The climate plan as it relates to the LSC campus

· Cliff/Britt – Details of the greenhouse gas emissions inventory

· Kate Worley – “Sort-A-Dumpster”

· Dick Haney – “Reconnecting With Nature”

· Rick Carter – ???

· Lorrie Fox – Environmental Health

· Clean-up session on computers

Motions

No motions were made this meeting.

Next Meeting

Mindy Granley, UMD Sustainability Coordinator, and others from UWS, CSS, and LSC involved in sustainability efforts will be meeting at 8:00am on Tuesday, June 23, 2009 at Bixby’s Cafe.

Meeting Minutes 6/16/09

Members present: Cliff Koski, Deanne Roquet, Jim Drake, Britt Johnson.

Suzanne Semborski from Human Resources was also in attendance to discuss duty day.

Old Business

Schools Cutting Carbon: Deanne reported the Schools Cutting Carbon report from ERM has been received. Deanne will make the report available to others.

Environmental Council Website: Deanne met with Steve Fudally regarding the Environmental Council website. She is requesting other Environmental Council members look over the website and provide feedback.

Duty Day: Suzanne Semborski from LSC Human Resources was present to discuss details of the fall duty day.

The Environmental Council is responsible for arranging speakers and topics, and providing a written summary of each topic and schedule to Suzanne by August 1, 2009. Suzanne will do the remaining arrangements.

Deanne is still working to locate the remaining funds for Deb Rowe. Wade will work with Suzanne to put together a contract with Deb for duty day.

Cliff will contact Kathleen Nelson regarding the welcome and introduction speech.

Coffee will be served at the duty day, but no disposable cups will be provided. Employees will be asked to bring their own coffee cups. Extra coffee cups will be collected and available to employees that forget or do not have their own reusable coffee cup.

Potential schedule:

· 8:30 – 9:00 – Kathleen Nelson – Welcome and introduction to the Presidents Climate Commitment

· 9:00- 10:30 – Deb Rowe – Key Note Speech to make employees aware of the Presidents Climate Commitment, and how the greenhouse gas emissions inventory leads into the climate plan.

· 10:30 – 10:45 – Break

· 10:45 – 11:30 – Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Summary and Clicker Commuting Survey

· 11:30 – 12:30 – Lunch

· 12:30 – 3:30 – Five or six concurrent breakout sessions (Either 1 or 1.5 hours each) to engage employees here at LSC and at home to work toward the goals of the climate plan.

· TBD – Public evening session with Deb Rowe

· TBD – Deb Rowe meeting with Kathleen Nelson, Environmental Council, and others

Potential Break-out Session topics:

· Deb Rose – The climate plan as it relates to the LSC campus

· Cliff/Britt – Details of the greenhouse gas emissions inventory

· Kate Worley – “Sort-A-Dumpster”

· Dick Haney – “Reconnecting With Nature”

· Rick Carter – ???

· Lorrie Fox – Environmental Health

· Clean-up session on computers

Motions

No motions were made this meeting.

Next Meeting

Mindy Granley, UMD Sustainability Coordinator, and others from UWS, CSS, and LSC involved in sustainability efforts will be meeting at 8:00am on Tuesday, June 23, 2009 at Bixby’s Cafe.

Meeting Minutes 6/9/09

Members present: Cliff Koski, Deanne Roquet, Dick Haney, Julius Salinas, Kevin Futhey, Wade Gordon, Diane Morin, Jim Drake, Britt Johnson.

Committee Reports

Presidents Climate Commitment: Cliff reported the LSC Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory as completed and presented an executive summary to the council. Mark Winson will review the inventory report. With Mark’s approval, the inventory will be submitted. The next step for LSC in the Presidents Climate Commitment is the climate plan.

Old Business

Sustainability Education Workshop at Northland College in Ashland, WI: Student Life will cover the cost of sending LSC student Erin Gregor to this 5-day workshop. Jane Moder will assist Erin in arranging the funding.

Duty Day: Deanne is still working to locate the remaining funds to host Deb Rowe for fall duty day. Wade will look into using FY09 remaining funds to get a contract started with Deb. Human Resources will do the scheduling for duty day, and Deanne will obtain a template schedule from Mary Nienaber. The Environmental Council is responsible to arrange the speakers and topics. Possible speakers include Deb Rowe, Rick Carter (LHB), Kate Worley (Wastewise), Dean Talbot, and Rachel Wagner.

Alliant Energy Grant: Wade will look into this grant.

New Business

PowerPoint Presentation: Wade is putting together a PowerPoint presentation of the Environmental Council efforts and accomplishments. Please contact him if you have any ideas for items to add. He will be presenting to the President’s Council on Friday, June 19, 2009 at the Holiday Inn.

Workforce Development Center: Diane reported the Workforce Development Center is working on a new lecture series. Four classes are planned: Make-and-Take Rain Barrels, Sustainable Farming, Energy Efficiency in the Home, Canning and Preserving. Workforce Development is also working on a sustainability training series for commercial applications. Stimulus money may potentially fund other types of training.

Announcements

Budget status: Deanne reported printing and laminating costs of $246 ($160 + $86) from the EC budget.

Schools Cutting Carbon: Deanne reported the Kill-A-Watt project is complete. She will be submitting a report shortly.

Motions

No motions were made this meeting.

Next Meeting

The next Environmental Council meeting will take place at 2pm on Tuesday, June16, 2009 in the Workforce Development conference room.

Meeting Minutes 6/9/09

Members present: Cliff Koski, Deanne Roquet, Dick Haney, Julius Salinas, Kevin Futhey, Wade Gordon, Diane Morin, Jim Drake, Britt Johnson.

Committee Reports

Presidents Climate Commitment: Cliff reported the LSC Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory as completed and presented an executive summary to the council. Mark Winson will review the inventory report. With Mark’s approval, the inventory will be submitted. The next step for LSC in the Presidents Climate Commitment is the climate plan.

Old Business

Sustainability Education Workshop at Northland College in Ashland, WI: Student Life will cover the cost of sending LSC student Erin Gregor to this 5-day workshop. Jane Moder will assist Erin in arranging the funding.

Duty Day: Deanne is still working to locate the remaining funds to host Deb Rowe for fall duty day. Wade will look into using FY09 remaining funds to get a contract started with Deb. Human Resources will do the scheduling for duty day, and Deanne will obtain a template schedule from Mary Nienaber. The Environmental Council is responsible to arrange the speakers and topics. Possible speakers include Deb Rowe, Rick Carter (LHB), Kate Worley (Wastewise), Dean Talbot, and Rachel Wagner.

Alliant Energy Grant: Wade will look into this grant.

New Business

PowerPoint Presentation: Wade is putting together a PowerPoint presentation of the Environmental Council efforts and accomplishments. Please contact him if you have any ideas for items to add. He will be presenting to the President’s Council on Friday, June 19, 2009 at the Holiday Inn.

Workforce Development Center: Diane reported the Workforce Development Center is working on a new lecture series. Four classes are planned: Make-and-Take Rain Barrels, Sustainable Farming, Energy Efficiency in the Home, Canning and Preserving. Workforce Development is also working on a sustainability training series for commercial applications. Stimulus money may potentially fund other types of training.

Announcements

Budget status: Deanne reported printing and laminating costs of $246 ($160 + $86) from the EC budget.

Schools Cutting Carbon: Deanne reported the Kill-A-Watt project is complete. She will be submitting a report shortly.

Motions

No motions were made this meeting.

Next Meeting

The next Environmental Council meeting will take place at 2pm on Tuesday, June16, 2009 in the Workforce Development conference room.

Meeting Minutes 05/08/09

Members present:  Celeste Zuniga, Cliff Koski, Deanne Roquet, Glenn Merrick, Julius Salinas, Kevin Futhey, Melissa Doolittle, Theresa Hornstein, Jim Drake, Erica LeMay, Erin Gregor, Britt Johnson.

Committee Reports

Worm building:  Theresa reported the worms have been granted an extension on their eviction to the end of the month.  Theresa has been sifting compost and will be selling it at the Plant Sale.  Gary Adams does not intend to move the worms until it is certain the science building will be built.  It has been discussed to convert the “Smokeshack” into a worm building, including greenhouse functions.  Theresa also reported Kathy Nelson informed her the Environmental Council is responsible for finding alternative disposal for food waste.  Jim and Theresa will work on ideas for replacement worm building locations. 

Old Business

Budget:  Missy reported the EC budget currently has $622 remaining, including in-house items.  $150 for Wastewise Membership is due 6/13/09.  Kevin will contact Kate Worley to request a 7/01/09 bill date for a FY10 budget expense.  Kathy Nelson and Mark Winson both approve and support LSC’s Wastewise membership.  Other budget items include AASHE membership and the UMACS conference.

Wastewise:  Kevin will request another copy of the Wastewise report from Kate Worley’s site visit. 

PHEV Prius:  Dennis Godfrey sent a note to the council about the PHEV Prius project.  The Prius has arrived and the parts to convert it are getting POs.  They will drive the vehicle and collect data for 2000 miles and then do the conversion and collect more data.  More information will be coming, including media coverage.

Open House/Earth Day Posters:  Erica reported $86 in costs for laminating the “green” posters for the LSC Open House and Earth Day.

Duty Day:  Deanne reported the Environmental Council came in 3^rd of 9 for the IE grant request.  No funds are guaranteed at this point.  Hosting Deb Rowe will cost $5500.  The EC requested $1000 be budgeted for Duty Day.  Mary Nienaber said HR would cover $2000 in expenses.  This will cover a half day visit from Deb Rowe.  Deanne is working to locate other funding sources such as Customized Training, which could involve an evening presentation.  Student senate, CTL, and UMD are other possible areas of involvement.  Other presenters considered for duty day are Rick Carter of LHB, Kate Worley of Wastewise, Connie Jamieson, WLSSD, etc.  The council voted in favor of funding at least one-half day hosting Deb Rowe for Duty Day.

Schools Cutting Carbon:  Deanne reported two Kill-A-Watt meters are now in place in computer labs at LSC and are being monitored by Ben Smith.  More monitors will be put in place once arrived.  Monitors will also be available for check-out through the library.

IE:  Deanne, Kevin, and Wade are on the IE Action Project working to develop a focus and framework for LSC’s sustainability efforts including a policy statement.  This is one of five action projects being developed at LSC by the IE committee to meet AQIP requirements.

New Business

2009 Pearson Sustainability Solutions Award:  Glenn will pursue this award.  Deadline is November 2009.

Website:  Deanne reported Carly, LSC student, has completed the website highlighting sustainability and environmental efforts of LSC.  Carly developed the website to fulfill requirements of a course she is taking here at LSC.  The website will be turned over to Steve Fudally and should be available for viewing soon.

Energy Inventory: To heighten awareness for fall Duty Day, Kathy Nelson asked Kevin and Wade to inventory equipment left on at night at LSC.  Kevin reported a large number of items left on (fans, lights, etc.) and also a large number of heaters, microwaves, and refrigerators.

Tree Planting:  Glenn reported 250 trees and 100 shrubs were planted by Environmental Science students along the stream.  The purpose of the planting was northern hardwood forest restoration and erosion control on the interpretive trail.

Styrofoam:  It has been suggested that we submit an article about the shredder and students to the Community College Times which is a publication of the American Association of Community Colleges at http://www.communitycollegetimes.com/. 

Announcements

Deanne announced two upcoming events:

·         Green By Design, June 10-11, 2009, Minneapolis

o   http://www.regonline.com/Checkin.asp?EventId=707089

·         Sustainability Education Workshop, June 22-26, 2009, Northland College, Ashland, WI

o   http://www.mrcse.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=34&Itemid=55

Motions

The council voted in favor of funding at least one-half day hosting Deb Rowe for Duty Day.

Next Meeting

To be determined.

Meeting Minutes 05/08/09

Members present:  Celeste Zuniga, Cliff Koski, Deanne Roquet, Glenn Merrick, Julius Salinas, Kevin Futhey, Melissa Doolittle, Theresa Hornstein, Jim Drake, Erica LeMay, Erin Gregor, Britt Johnson.

Committee Reports

Worm building:  Theresa reported the worms have been granted an extension on their eviction to the end of the month.  Theresa has been sifting compost and will be selling it at the Plant Sale.  Gary Adams does not intend to move the worms until it is certain the science building will be built.  It has been discussed to convert the “Smokeshack” into a worm building, including greenhouse functions.  Theresa also reported Kathy Nelson informed her the Environmental Council is responsible for finding alternative disposal for food waste.  Jim and Theresa will work on ideas for replacement worm building locations. 

Old Business

Budget:  Missy reported the EC budget currently has $622 remaining, including in-house items.  $150 for Wastewise Membership is due 6/13/09.  Kevin will contact Kate Worley to request a 7/01/09 bill date for a FY10 budget expense.  Kathy Nelson and Mark Winson both approve and support LSC’s Wastewise membership.  Other budget items include AASHE membership and the UMACS conference.

Wastewise:  Kevin will request another copy of the Wastewise report from Kate Worley’s site visit. 

PHEV Prius:  Dennis Godfrey sent a note to the council about the PHEV Prius project.  The Prius has arrived and the parts to convert it are getting POs.  They will drive the vehicle and collect data for 2000 miles and then do the conversion and collect more data.  More information will be coming, including media coverage.

Open House/Earth Day Posters:  Erica reported $86 in costs for laminating the “green” posters for the LSC Open House and Earth Day.

Duty Day:  Deanne reported the Environmental Council came in 3^rd of 9 for the IE grant request.  No funds are guaranteed at this point.  Hosting Deb Rowe will cost $5500.  The EC requested $1000 be budgeted for Duty Day.  Mary Nienaber said HR would cover $2000 in expenses.  This will cover a half day visit from Deb Rowe.  Deanne is working to locate other funding sources such as Customized Training, which could involve an evening presentation.  Student senate, CTL, and UMD are other possible areas of involvement.  Other presenters considered for duty day are Rick Carter of LHB, Kate Worley of Wastewise, Connie Jamieson, WLSSD, etc.  The council voted in favor of funding at least one-half day hosting Deb Rowe for Duty Day.

Schools Cutting Carbon:  Deanne reported two Kill-A-Watt meters are now in place in computer labs at LSC and are being monitored by Ben Smith.  More monitors will be put in place once arrived.  Monitors will also be available for check-out through the library.

IE:  Deanne, Kevin, and Wade are on the IE Action Project working to develop a focus and framework for LSC’s sustainability efforts including a policy statement.  This is one of five action projects being developed at LSC by the IE committee to meet AQIP requirements.

New Business

2009 Pearson Sustainability Solutions Award:  Glenn will pursue this award.  Deadline is November 2009.

Website:  Deanne reported Carly, LSC student, has completed the website highlighting sustainability and environmental efforts of LSC.  Carly developed the website to fulfill requirements of a course she is taking here at LSC.  The website will be turned over to Steve Fudally and should be available for viewing soon.

Energy Inventory: To heighten awareness for fall Duty Day, Kathy Nelson asked Kevin and Wade to inventory equipment left on at night at LSC.  Kevin reported a large number of items left on (fans, lights, etc.) and also a large number of heaters, microwaves, and refrigerators.

Tree Planting:  Glenn reported 250 trees and 100 shrubs were planted by Environmental Science students along the stream.  The purpose of the planting was northern hardwood forest restoration and erosion control on the interpretive trail.

Styrofoam:  It has been suggested that we submit an article about the shredder and students to the Community College Times which is a publication of the American Association of Community Colleges at http://www.communitycollegetimes.com/. 

Announcements

Deanne announced two upcoming events:

·         Green By Design, June 10-11, 2009, Minneapolis

o   http://www.regonline.com/Checkin.asp?EventId=707089

·         Sustainability Education Workshop, June 22-26, 2009, Northland College, Ashland, WI

o   http://www.mrcse.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=34&Itemid=55

Motions

The council voted in favor of funding at least one-half day hosting Deb Rowe for Duty Day.

Next Meeting

To be determined.

Meeting Minutes 04/24/09

Members present:  Carol Johnson, Cathy Carlson, Cliff Koski, Deanne Roquet, Gary Adams, Glenn Merrick, Julius Salinas, Theresa Hornstein, Wade Gordon, Frank Niffenegger, Ben Smith, Erin Gregor, Britt Johnson.

Committee Reports

Earth Day:  LSC Earth Day was successful.  Ken Gilbertson’s session was well attended.  John Stetson’s session was very well attended.  Glenn’s interpretive trail had one attendee.  Students from the Fire school and senators participated in the campus clean-up.  The light-colored earth bags were distributed.  The dark-colored earth bags were saved and will be distributed at another LSC event (duty day?)

PR/Signage:  Carol suggested renaming the PR/Signage sub-committee to the Communications sub-committee.

Trail/BioRetention Pond:  Glenn reported there will be trail maintenance on Friday May 8, 2009.  350 trees will be planted.  The bridge is in need of repair.  Miller Creek is one of five creeks being monitored in Duluth for turbidity, salinity, etc.  There are problems with some of the disc golf holes.  5 holes have been moved, two more are in need of being moved.  At this time, talks with the city are on hold.  There is a need for more people to assess and discuss the disc golf course.

Worm building:  Theresa reported the worms must find a new home by May 15.  Theresa will be looking into this and reporting back at the next meeting.

Old Business

Workforce Lecture Series:  27 people attended the Green Lecture Series on Tuesday, April 21, 2009.  Wade reported Workforce Development is working on 5-6 other classes, including a make-n-take rain barrel class.  Deanne suggested setting up a class when Deb Rowe is here in August for Duty Day.

Campus Ambassadors info:  At a previous EC meeting, Erica LeMay requested a summary of LSC’s green projects to include in the campus ambassador tours.  Deanne provided this information to Erica.

Schools Cutting Carbon:  A report has not yet been received from Tim Blodgett on the SCC site visit that took place on March 25.  Also, grant funds have not yet been received for the purchase of the Kill-A-Watt meters ($18/unit).  Wade has a few units that can be used by Frank and Ben in order for them to get started on the project.  The project involves comparing electricity usage of two computer labs.  One of the labs shuts down from 11pm to 7am, the other lab does not.  Frank and Ben will also be assessing electricity usage in the Student Technology Center.  There was also discussion of turning lights off of vending machines and doing a comparison of energy usage. 

Wastewise Earth Day:  Deanne attended the Wastewise Earth Day meeting on April 23.  She gathered useful information and plans to share with the rest of the EC.  Deanne suggested organizing EC “Brown Bags” for these types of purposes. 

Styrofoam:  Theresa reported the Marshall School will also be collecting styrofoam chunks.  Julius will be contacting staff at WLSSD to see if there is interest in purchasing the shredder.  Cathy suggested the entrepreneur program at LSC use the styrofoam shredder as a test project.

Budget:  The EC budget currently has $989 remaining.  Carol and Deanne will meet and discuss the budget and then email a summary to all EC members.  Wade requested $12,000 for next year’s budget.  This amount allows for the hiring of a student worker and a kiosk in the S building.

Retreat:  Meetings next year will be every-other-week and will alternate between Thursdays at 2pm and Fridays at 9am.  Meetings will be 90 minutes.  Deanne suggested setting up brown bag sessions to discuss special topics.

UMACS  Conference:  Wade, Cliff, and Dick plan to attend the UMACS Conference May 31 – June 3.

Environmental Council Website:  Deanne will be meeting with LSC student, Carly.  She will be demonstrating the new Environmental Council website she is working on as part of a class.

Deb Rowe/Duty Day:  Deb Rowe will be speaking at the August LSC Duty Day, answering the question “What can I do in my position here at LSC?”  Deb Rowe would also like to meet with Kathy, Wade, and the rest of the Environmental Council in the evening.  If the EC does not receive funding to host Deb Rowe, Human Resources will cover the costs.  There are also plans to host Kate Worley of Wastewise, Rick Carter and Connie Jamieson.

New Business

New Member:  The Environmental Council welcomed new member, Erin Gregor, LSC student.

Presidential Cabinet PowerPoint:  Wade will be assembling and presenting a PowerPoint presentation on LSC’s environmental/sustainability efforts to the President’s cabinet.

Memberships:  Wade announced LSC is now officially a member of AASHE.  Carol suggested assembling a list of associations and memberships LSC has.   Cathy suggested having EC members appointed to check updates for these associations and then submit summaries to be added to the blog.

Trayless Cafeteria:  The council discussed the possibility of a trayless cafeteria.  Cathy reported the majority of schools that have implemented a trayless system have returned to a tray system within a few months.  Cathy reported next year she will eliminate all paper/styro cups and use only real cups. 

Motions

No motions were made at this meeting.

Next Meeting

The next Environmental Council meeting will take place at 10:00am on Friday, May 8, 2009 in Gary’s office. 

Meeting Minutes 04/24/09

Members present:  Carol Johnson, Cathy Carlson, Cliff Koski, Deanne Roquet, Gary Adams, Glenn Merrick, Julius Salinas, Theresa Hornstein, Wade Gordon, Frank Niffenegger, Ben Smith, Erin Gregor, Britt Johnson.

Committee Reports

Earth Day:  LSC Earth Day was successful.  Ken Gilbertson’s session was well attended.  John Stetson’s session was very well attended.  Glenn’s interpretive trail had one attendee.  Students from the Fire school and senators participated in the campus clean-up.  The light-colored earth bags were distributed.  The dark-colored earth bags were saved and will be distributed at another LSC event (duty day?)

PR/Signage:  Carol suggested renaming the PR/Signage sub-committee to the Communications sub-committee.

Trail/BioRetention Pond:  Glenn reported there will be trail maintenance on Friday May 8, 2009.  350 trees will be planted.  The bridge is in need of repair.  Miller Creek is one of five creeks being monitored in Duluth for turbidity, salinity, etc.  There are problems with some of the disc golf holes.  5 holes have been moved, two more are in need of being moved.  At this time, talks with the city are on hold.  There is a need for more people to assess and discuss the disc golf course.

Worm building:  Theresa reported the worms must find a new home by May 15.  Theresa will be looking into this and reporting back at the next meeting.

Old Business

Workforce Lecture Series:  27 people attended the Green Lecture Series on Tuesday, April 21, 2009.  Wade reported Workforce Development is working on 5-6 other classes, including a make-n-take rain barrel class.  Deanne suggested setting up a class when Deb Rowe is here in August for Duty Day.

Campus Ambassadors info:  At a previous EC meeting, Erica LeMay requested a summary of LSC’s green projects to include in the campus ambassador tours.  Deanne provided this information to Erica.

Schools Cutting Carbon:  A report has not yet been received from Tim Blodgett on the SCC site visit that took place on March 25.  Also, grant funds have not yet been received for the purchase of the Kill-A-Watt meters ($18/unit).  Wade has a few units that can be used by Frank and Ben in order for them to get started on the project.  The project involves comparing electricity usage of two computer labs.  One of the labs shuts down from 11pm to 7am, the other lab does not.  Frank and Ben will also be assessing electricity usage in the Student Technology Center.  There was also discussion of turning lights off of vending machines and doing a comparison of energy usage. 

Wastewise Earth Day:  Deanne attended the Wastewise Earth Day meeting on April 23.  She gathered useful information and plans to share with the rest of the EC.  Deanne suggested organizing EC “Brown Bags” for these types of purposes. 

Styrofoam:  Theresa reported the Marshall School will also be collecting styrofoam chunks.  Julius will be contacting staff at WLSSD to see if there is interest in purchasing the shredder.  Cathy suggested the entrepreneur program at LSC use the styrofoam shredder as a test project.

Budget:  The EC budget currently has $989 remaining.  Carol and Deanne will meet and discuss the budget and then email a summary to all EC members.  Wade requested $12,000 for next year’s budget.  This amount allows for the hiring of a student worker and a kiosk in the S building.

Retreat:  Meetings next year will be every-other-week and will alternate between Thursdays at 2pm and Fridays at 9am.  Meetings will be 90 minutes.  Deanne suggested setting up brown bag sessions to discuss special topics.

UMACS  Conference:  Wade, Cliff, and Dick plan to attend the UMACS Conference May 31 – June 3.

Environmental Council Website:  Deanne will be meeting with LSC student, Carly.  She will be demonstrating the new Environmental Council website she is working on as part of a class.

Deb Rowe/Duty Day:  Deb Rowe will be speaking at the August LSC Duty Day, answering the question “What can I do in my position here at LSC?”  Deb Rowe would also like to meet with Kathy, Wade, and the rest of the Environmental Council in the evening.  If the EC does not receive funding to host Deb Rowe, Human Resources will cover the costs.  There are also plans to host Kate Worley of Wastewise, Rick Carter and Connie Jamieson.

New Business

New Member:  The Environmental Council welcomed new member, Erin Gregor, LSC student.

Presidential Cabinet PowerPoint:  Wade will be assembling and presenting a PowerPoint presentation on LSC’s environmental/sustainability efforts to the President’s cabinet.

Memberships:  Wade announced LSC is now officially a member of AASHE.  Carol suggested assembling a list of associations and memberships LSC has.   Cathy suggested having EC members appointed to check updates for these associations and then submit summaries to be added to the blog.

Trayless Cafeteria:  The council discussed the possibility of a trayless cafeteria.  Cathy reported the majority of schools that have implemented a trayless system have returned to a tray system within a few months.  Cathy reported next year she will eliminate all paper/styro cups and use only real cups. 

Motions

No motions were made at this meeting.

Next Meeting

The next Environmental Council meeting will take place at 10:00am on Friday, May 8, 2009 in Gary’s office. 

Meeting Minutes 04/10/09

Members present:  Cliff Koski, Deanne Roquet, Dick Haney, Glenn Merrick, Julius Salinas, Kevin Futhey, Theresa Hornstein, Jim Drake, Erica LeMay, Britt Johnson.

Committee Reports

Earth Day:  Earth Day speakers are planned to speak in the internet café.  There was discussion as to whether this should take place in the lounge instead.  Glenn and Dick will talk to Celeste.  Glenn will be introducing Ken Gilbertson.  Steve Wagner will be introducing John Stetson.

Old Business

The EC budget currently has about $3300.  Upcoming expenses include trail signage ($500), trail brochures, Wastewise conference attendance, UMACS attendance, LSC Open House poster lamination.

Cliff and Dick are planning to attend the UMACS conference in May/June.  Deanne may also attend.

New Business

The Environmental Council welcomed new member Erica LeMay, Admissions Representative.

Deanne, Carol, and Britt will meet and work on a new format for the EC meeting agendas.  An “announcements” section needs to be added.  There is a need for a system for EC members to submit agenda items.

Julius contacted Mellin Promotions regarding tote bags for the EC to give out on Earth Day.  Mellin Productions will make 500 forest green tote bags with the LSC logo for $880.00, including shipping.  The council voted and approved the purchase of the tote bags.  During the time of the meeting, Julius worked with Melissa Doolittle and acquired a PO for the tote bags.  Mellin Promotions will have the tote bags shipped before Earth Day activities at LSC. 

Erica talked about the LSC open house taking place on Friday, April 17, 2009 from 3-6pm.  This year’s open house has a “green” theme.  Campus Ambassadors are creating posters to highlight “green” efforts at LSC.  Erica appealed to the EC to pay for the lamination of the posters so they could be stored and used at future LSC functions.  Cost of lamination will not cost more than $300.  The council voted and approved the allotment of up to $300 for the lamination of the posters.

Erica asked the EC for booth participation in the LSC Open House.  Deanne will be at the Biology booth, and Cliff will be at the Civil Tech booth.  Deanne and Cliff asked Erica to place the Biology, Civil Tech, and EC booths next to each other so Deanne and Cliff can also be available for the EC booth.

Erica is in the process of updating the campus ambassador tours.  She asked for a small description of various “green” projects around campus to include in the tours.  Deanne will email Erica information she gathered as part of her Award of Excellence.  Erica also mentioned she needs to recruit more Campus Ambassadors.  Please send potential students her way.    

Jim suggested a coffee cup sleeve decorating contest for Earth Day.  The purpose would be to encourage re-euse of the coffee cup sleeves.  EC members discussed that there was probably not enough time to hold the contest this year, but we should keep it in mind for next year.

LSC will be awarded a $500 grant as part of the Schools Cutting Carbon program.  Ben and Frank will be measuring electrical use in the computer labs to assess electricity waste from computers that are “asleep” but on.  However, there is concern as to when the $500 will arrive.  There are only 5 weeks of the semester remaining, and the project is intended to be student-run.

Deanne, Cliff, and Britt met with Mindy Granley, UMD’s Sustainability Coordinator on Tuesday, April 7, 2009 at 8:00am at Bixby’s.  Everybody is welcome to join at the next meeting on Tuesday, May 5, 2009 at 8:00 at Bixby’s.  Mindy will invite Janice Creedy from UWS.  Mindy agreed to share expenses of hosting Deb Rowe during LSC’s Duty Day.  Mindy will arrange to have Deb Rowe speak at UMD also. 

Customized Training is looking into a program “Communicating the Business Case for Sustainability”.   The city of Duluth will be utilizing this program.  The goal of the program is to change the face of sustainability in the business world, making sustainability an integration that improves efficiency, rather than a side project that costs money.   Videos and books are available.

Kevin reported that Wastewise is holding its own Earth Day on April 23 at 7:30am.  The EC voted in favor of sending one person from the EC to that meeting.

Kevin and Britt are in need of styrofoam for shredding.  There is now a supply shortage of styrofoam chunks.  Kevin will talk to Gary Kruchowski and Mat Gilderman.  He will also talk to AJ at WLSSD.

Motions

The EC voted in favor of purchasing 500 forest green tote bags with the LSC logo for $880.00, including shipping.  The tote bags will be handed out during LSC Earth Day activities.

The EC voted in favor of the allotment of up to $300 for the lamination of the posters for LSC’s Open House on Friday, April 17, 2009.

The EC voted in favor of sending one person from the EC to the Wastewise Earth Day.

Next Meeting

The next Environmental Council meeting will take place Friday, April 24, 2009 at 10:00am in Gary’s office.

Retreat Minutes 04/02/09

Members present:  Carol Johnson, Celeste Zuniga, Cliff Koski, Deanne Roquet, Dick Haney, Julius Salinas, Kevin Futhey, Melissa Doolittle, Wade Gordon, Diane Morin, Britt Johnson.

Structure

Council at Large

·         Next fall, EC meetings will continue to meet every-other-week, but will alternate between Thursdays at 2pm and Fridays at 9am.  An outlook calendar notification will be set up.

Subcommittees

·         Each subcommittee will be responsible to meet, discuss and define subcommittee mission statement and goals.  The chairperson will report outcomes at the final EC meeting of the year, May 8, 2009.  Carol will send an email with further information regarding this.  Subcommittees could also have an annual report.

·         Wade and Diane will work on a complete restructure of the EC using a more traditional board structure.

·         A need to appoint Cathy T. as the EC’s marketing/PR liaison was discussed.

Staff

·         Remaining budget money may allow for the hire of a student worker.  This student could assist in several EC projects, including educating staff and faculty on appropriate usage of saddle bags.

Subcommittee Creation

·         Ideas for activities/projects for subcommittees can be brought to EC meetings.  New subcommittees may be created as needed.

Membership Goals

·         EC needs representation from Allied Health and Nursing Department.  Lorrie Fox is interested in joining the EC.  Deanne will contact Lorrie about remaining meeting dates for the EC this year.

·         The EC would like the LSC Student Senate to appoint a liaison.  Carol will contact Student Services and Student Life regarding this. 

·         Deanne has been working to recruit future LSC students and EC members through the Schools Cutting Carbon (SCC) Program.  Two Harbors and Proctor High Schools are also involved in the SCC Program

Creative Strategy for Campus Wide Involvement

·         EC should present at each duty day to report efforts and accomplishments.  This is also an opportunity to invite new members to the EC.

Worm Building

·         Wade and Kevin will look into moving the worm building when the new Science/Health building is constructed.

Incorporate Sustainability in the Campus Mission

·         IE is currently focusing on green efforts.

Duty Day Planning

·         If the EC is not the recipient of an IE grant, there may be money available from human resources through Mary Nienaber.

·         Presenters planned include Deb Rowe ($7500) and Connie Jamieson. 

Budget Planning

·         Carol and Wade will be working on FY10 budget.

·         FY10 Budget items planned/suggested:

o   Conference fees/Travel                                                           $1500

o   Earth Day Events                                                         $1000

o   Memberships (AASHE, Wastewise, etc.)                     $500

o   Student Worker                                                                        $4600

o   Supplies and Equipment                                                          $500

o   Printing                                                                                    $200

o   Community Alliance                                                    $750

o   Vending misers (5)                                                      $150

o   Kiosk                                                                           $2500

o   Office recycling bins

o   Reusable shopping bags to be given away at Earth Day events

Note:  Kiosk would be located outside Student Services.  It would be for general information use, but screen would default to sustainability topics.

Vision and Mission Statement

·         Mission statement needs to be revisited.

Other

·         Deanne submitted the project proposal for the Schools Cutting Carbon Program.  This will likely result in a $500 grant.   The proposed project involves the purchase of 5 Kill-A-Watt monitors ($50 each) to quantitate wasted electricity by computers in LSC computer labs.  The remaining funds will be used to purchase software that will reduce energy use through shutdown or hibernation of CPUs.  This project will be led by Frank Niffenegger and Ben Smith.

·         Coffee mugs and trays will be ready for the Presidential Conference room by May 4. 

·         Carly, an LSC student, will be working on an EC website to publish President’s Climate Commitment (PCC) reports.

·         The EC needs to come up with a “brand”.  A “logo” is not allowed according to LSC policy.

·         On Earth Day, speakers will be presenting in the Internet Café.

·         Deanne is meeting with Mindy Granley, UMD Sustainability Coordinator, over breakfast at Bixby’s at 8am on Tuesday, April 7, 2009.  All EC members are invited to join.

Next Meeting

The next Environmental Council meeting will take place on Friday, April 10, 2009 at 10:00am in Gary’s office.  The remaining two meetings for the school year are April 24 and May 8.