June 1, 2007

Department of Environmental Quality Director Steven E. Chester visited with officials from the 110 Fighter Wing Battle Creek Air National Guard Base in Battle Creek to congratulate them on achieving Clean Corporate Citizen status. This is the third Department of Defense facility in Michigan to achieve this prestigious award for voluntary environmental stewardship.

"I am excited to welcome the 110 Fighter Wing Battle Creek Air National Guard Base into the Clean Corporate Citizen program" said Director Chester. "The base strives to promote a healthy environment while supporting its mission and its commitment to community."

The 110th Fighter Wing is responsible for the maintenance and training on A-10 attack aircraft for the Department of Defense. In addition to pilot training in war fighting skills, work on the base includes aircraft maintenance, vehicle maintenance, civil engineering activities, medical operations, and general office work.

"Members of the 110 Fighter Wing understand that in order to remain a viable element in the Department of Defense future planning they must continue to build good community relationships," said Lt. Col. Fred C Vollmerhausen, Base Environmental Coordinator. "The Clean Corporate Citizen award is proof that the base is doing just that. Base personnel strive every day to make improvements in their processes to reduce both the hazardous chemicals used and the wastes they produce. These improvements will continue as we strive to be good stewards of our community."

The 110 Fighter Wing operates under federal standards for environmental management systems and has performed the rigorous "Compliance Through Pollution Prevention" federal program. In addition, they have partnered with the DEQ in the Department of Defense/Michigan Environmental Alliance, and the Michigan Business Pollution Prevention Partnership.

To qualify for a Clean Corporate Citizen designation, candidates must adopt a facility-specific environmental management system and active pollution prevention initiatives, and have a consistent record of compliance with applicable environmental requirements. Clean Corporate Citizens are eligible for certain regulatory benefits under the state's environmental programs, including expedited permit approval. The program is open to any Michigan public or private business, educational institution, medical facility or governmental agency. Designations are valid for two or three year periods.

Editor's note: DEQ news releases are available on the department's Internet home page at www.michigan.gov/deq.

"Protecting Michigan's Environment, Ensuring Michigan's Future"

Revised June 1, 2007 by Pat Watson