We began the topic of Parks and Recreation Division going green in the last e-newsletter.  Here is some new information and ideas for you to help us go green.

The Parks and Recreation Division's (PRD) Green Initiatives Team needs your help to participate in efforts towards water conservation, recycling and the reduction of electrical use. Annually PRD spends over two million dollars on utility bills, roughly 5% of the entire operating budget across the state and those costs are anticipated to rise. Additionally, the electricity that powers buildings and campsites throughout Michigan's State Parks and Recreation Areas typically comes from electricity produced by power plants that burn coal, which pollutes the air and water. We need your assistance in helping to control overall utility costs and the associated environmental impacts through simple practices on a day to day basis. Below is a list of suggestions to help promote conservation and sustainability, please do your part while camping this summer and join the Team to go green!

Turn off, turn down and unplug. Partners in conservation - energy matters.

• Turn off your AC when you aren't in your RV
• Clean or replace your AC filter monthly
• When buying any new electrical device, look for the Energy Star
• Instead of AC, open a window or go for a swim
• Turn off the lights during the day
• Position your RV to maximize day-lighting
• Install window films to reflect sunlight and heat
• Take shorter showers
• Be sure to turn off the water completely after you take a shower (and report leaks to staff) 
• When brushing your teeth or shaving, don't just let the water run, turn it on as needed
• Don't burn plastic, glass, cans, trash or railroad ties……..recycle them
• Rather than watching TV…….go for a walk
• Instead of cooking on an electric stove, cook over the campfire
• If you have to use an electric stove, cover your pots and pans
• If you have to use an oven, use a microwave oven
• Turn off the patio lights when you retire for the night
• Use rechargeable batteries in your flashlights and lanterns
• Replace your incandescent lights with compact fluorescents or LED's
• If you use a refrigerator, set the temperature to between 36-39 degrees Fahrenheit

• What are your ideas? Feel free to offer up suggestions to the campground hosts, park supervisor or staff and let them know that conservation, sustainability and energy efficiency are important to you!