:: What GSMWVC is Doing to Help the Environment

• At Camp Mariposa non-native and volunteer trees were removed to allow California native species to thrive. As planting has been done, drought resistant plants have been used. A drip watering system was installed to insure a more accurate dispensing of water based on plants' needs.
   
• The pond has been stocked with mosquito fish to help keep the mosquito population in check. Goldfish live in the pond and feed off of the moss which maintains an ecological balance in the pond. If the fish were fed it would endanger their lives and upset the pond’s natural balance.
   
• There are recycling bins placed outside the building for the collection of aluminum cans and plastic bottles.
  
  
• At the Council Service Center an energy audit was conducted. As lights burn out they are being replaced with energy saving bulbs. Motion detectors have been installed in all restrooms and supply rooms to conserve electricity. All exterior lights as well as the lobby lamp now operate on photo cells, donated through Edison, so they turn on and off at dusk and dawn.
  
  
• A water filtration system has been installed in the kitchen to eliminate the need for subscription water dispensers and paper cups. Dishes, silverware, cups and glasses are available in the kitchen to eliminate the use of disposable cups, table ware and paper plates. The janitors have been educated as to properly emptying the trash into the 2 dumpsters in the back of the parking lot.
  
  
• Recycling bins for paper have been placed in each office. Bins to separate aluminum cans, plastic bottles, and other non-redemption items are located in the kitchen. All printer ink cartridges are being recycled in exchange for discounts on office supplies. All batteries and cell phones are being recycled as well.
  
  
• As the budget allows, CRT monitors are being replaced with more efficient flat screen monitors.
  
  
• Each week a “green” tip is appearing in the interoffice newsletter to give us all more ideas on how to be better environmental stewards.
  
  
• Trees suffering from an infestation of bark beetles were removed from the Montrose Program Center to stop the possible spread to other trees. As planting is being done in conjunction with the program center’s renovation, native plants are being used.
  
  
• Recycling bins have been placed at this site as well.