HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015.08.26 Conservation Commission Agenda Packet ASHLAND CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Meeting Agenda
August 26, 2015 — 6:00 PM
Community Development Building, Siskiyou Room
51 Winburn Way
1. Call to Order
2. Consent Agenda/Reports
2.1. Minutes June 24, 2015 Commission meeting
2.2. Minutes July 22, 2015 Commission meeting
3. Announcements 0 0 min)
3.1. Next Regular Meeting: September 23, 2015
3.2. Upcoming Sub-committee meetings
• Climate/Energy—(converted to Ad-Hoc Climate Action/Energy Plan Committee)
• Air Quality-Leaf Blower - ??
• Downtown/Sidewalk Recycling - ??
3.3. Other Announcements from Commissioners
4. Public Forum(10 min to be evenly divided by public wishing to speak)
5. Reports / Presentations/Updates (25 min)
5.1. Downtown Recycling— Sub-committee update(10 min)
5.2. Council - Councilor Rosenthal (5 min)
5.3. City Conservation & Operations—Hanks (5 min)
5.4. Water Supply Update—Public Works(packet document)
5.5. Recology— Quarterly Update(5 min)
6. Old Business (40 min)
6.1 Commission Monthly Column in Sneak Preview (10 min)
a. Motion for Approval - October—Climate/Energy Plan-Koopman
b. Nov—Energy Efficiency/Weatherization -Hanks
d. December—Holiday Conservation- Silverberg
e. January - ??
6.2 Climate/Energy Sub-committee update (10 min)
6.3 Earth Bowl—Funding/Sponsorships (10 min)
6.4 Leaf Blower/Air Quality—Next steps (10 min)
7. New Business (30 min)
7.1 Pesticide/Herbicide Discussion-Prep prior to Oct 5th Council Study Session (15 min)
7.2 Water Sub-committee creation - Discussion(5 min)
7.3 Commission Annual Report to Council (10 min)
8. Wrap Up (5 min)
8.1 Calendar Review- Items to be added to next agenda
8.2 Adjournment(8 PM)
C I T
ASHLAND CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Meeting Minutes
June 24, 2015
Community Development Building, Siskiyou Room
51 Winburn Way
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by Chair Beigel-Coryell. Commissioners Buck, Hartman,
Silverberg, McGinnis and Cruickshank were present. Commissioners Koopman and Weir
arrived at 6:10. Commissioner Sohl was absent, as was Council Liaison Rosenthal Councilor
Marsh arrived at 6:30. Staff liaison Hanks was also present.
Consent Agenda/Reports
The meeting minutes of the May 27, 2015 Commission meeting were approved unanimously
after motion second of Buck/Hartman. Announcements began with an introduction of new
Commissioner Cara Cruickshank, who provided some personal and professional background for
the group. After individual introductions around the room, the Commission welcomed
Commissioner Cruickshank to the Commission.
Beigel-Coryell announced the August regular meeting for the Commission is July 22 and the
Climate and Energy sub-committee is planning to meet at their regularly scheduled first and third
Wednesday(July lst and 15th). Weir acknowledged the Mayor and Council for having the Earth
Bowl winners recognized at a recent Council meeting. Koopman mentioned that the upcoming
Climate Action kick off event is still being finalized but is likely either November lst or l lth at
the Old Armory.
Public Forum
Huelz Guetchen announced an educational class that he is working on creating on energy for
July 6th at Pioneer Hall and provided the Commissioners with a handout.
Reports/ Presentations/Updates
City Conservation& Operations—Hanks mentioned that the Energy Conservation Division is
currently working with SOU staff on additional energy efficiency projects for the Rogue River
Room and finalizing the documentation and measurement calculations for the SOU Dorms
project to qualify the project for BPA incentive funds.
Council Update—Councilor Marsh, filling in for Councilor Rosenthal, updated the Commission
on the status of the letter from the Mayor to the State legislature regarding House Bill 3470 and
recognized the Commissions effort and involvement in making that happen. Marsh also noted
that the Climate Action and Energy plan project funding was approved in the recently adopted
biennial budget for BN2015-17.
Marsh provided a brief summary of the discussion and status regarding the solar farm proposal,
stating that the Council decided to continue to reserve the property for its original purchased
intent, which is for issues relating to the wastewater treatment plant, but that the proposal did
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lead to a desire for further conversations regarding the role of a large scale solar generation
facility within the City's electric utility. Marsh announced that the Council intends to have a
study session in late summer or fall regarding the current operations and future operations and
strategy for the Electric Utility. Hanks noted that the date has not yet been identified for that
study session, but that he would inform the Commission when it is set.
Marsh also updated the Commission on the recent presentation requesting the City Council's
support for the expansion of the Cascade Monument. The Commission was appreciative of the
Council for supporting the expansion and asked about a timeline for ultimate approval. Marsh
stated that it was likely still several years out to get through the various steps in the federal
process.
SOU-Quarterly Update -Beigel-Coryell gave an update on the recent activities at SOU
including several energy efficiency projects mentioned by Hanks earlier. An annual significant
event is student move out week at the end of the school year. Efforts are made each year to
divert miscellaneous non-standard trash items from the landfill trash stream (furniture, storage
bins, mattresses, etc) noting that over 8,900 pounds of material was able to be diverted this year.
Beigel-Coryell noted that the campus farm on Walker Av was continuing to expand and
volunteer opportunities were available. Also noted was the food grown at the farm are available
to students on campus each Thursday at a stand at the SU.
Old Business
Commission Monthly Column in Sneak Preview
1) July- SOU Sustainability/Conservation on campus
Beigel-Coryell handed out a draft letter from the Facilities Department regarding water
conservation. She stated that it wasn't the type of article she originally intended and wanted the
Commission's feedback on how best to proceed.
After discussion on the tone, the intended audience and its connection to the Commission,
McGinnis motioned that the Conservation Corner space be provided in July to SOU for this
letter, but it not be connected with the Commission. The motion passed unanimously.
It was then noted by several Commissioners that the goal is to be one to two months ahead of the
submittal deadline for articles.
2) August- School District Conservation
Hartman noted that he is working on it and will have a draft to email to the Commission well
prior to the next Commission meeting.
3) September-Leaf Removal/Storm drains-Buck/Hanks-Noted as on track for next meeting
4) October-Climate/Energy Plan-Koopman-Noted as on track for July or August meeting
5) November-Energy Efficiency/Weatherization—Hanks—Noted as on track for August or
September meeting
Climate/Energy Presentation/Council—Re-cap &Next Steps
Koopman summarized the recent presentation to Council regarding the Climate Action and
Energy plan and noted that she felt there was a breakdown of communication between the
Commission and the Council regarding the intended content of the presentation which caused
some confusion with all involved. Koopman suggested the Commission schedule individual
Councilor meetings to convey the messages on the Commission's plans for the project.
McGinnis gave a quick summary of the sub-committee work noting that in the recent past the
committee worked on research and development for the STAR framework for sustainability but
that didn't carry forward and wants to know what the Commission can do to be effective on this
topic.
Councilor Marsh responded that it may be useful for a pre-meeting with the Mayor and a few
key Councilors so everyone is on the same page. Marsh suggested that the Commission ensure
that the August deadline for the appointment of the ad-hoc committee members happens so the
project can formally get going. As to funding, Marsh noted that the allocation of the $120,000
has yet to occur and that will come as the project unfolds.
Weir noted that he felt the ad-hoc committee shouldn't be too all inclusive and mentioned the
recent water master plan as an example that he felt didn't work as well as it could have and
prefers the committee to be primarily technical experts in the fields being addressed.
Silverberg noted a desire for business leaders who may be impacted by the result and
implementation of the plan as well as to address potential job impacts.
The Commission noted their appreciation for Councilor Marsh's push on the topic and relayed
their desire to assist in pushing the project forward.
Carbon Pricing—Council Request Recap
The Commission again noted appreciation to Marsh for the Mayor and Council's action on this
topic.
New Business
Leaf Blowers /Air Quality
Hanks noted that this item is from a citizen request from a recent conversation and provided the
citizen email in the meeting packet.
Weir noted that he felt this would be a good topic for the Commission and would be willing to
lead some sort of discussion for research and recommendations on how to address the issue.
Buck noted that best practices need to somehow be included in whatever comes out of the
discussion. The Commission asked Marsh's opinion and she reminded them to pick their battles.
Buck again noted the potential for education vs a regulatory ordinance approach.
Weir made a motion to form a sub-committee, Silverberg second passed unanimously with
Commissioners Weir, Buck and Silverberg being members of the sub-committee.
8. Wrap Up
Calendar/Budget Review
Following up on discussions from last month's meeting, Weir made a motion for the
Commission to recommend allocation of$1,000 toward the 2016 Earth Bowl event. McGinnis
noted that there are several similar events that may require Commission recommendations on
funding and was hesitant to lock in one without talking about all of them.
The Commission agreed to discuss the budget, the Bear Creek Salmon Festival and the concept
of a water sub-committee at the next meeting.
Beigel-Coryell adjourned the meeting at 8:05.
Minutes for the Conservation Commission
July 22,2015
Page 1 of 4
MINUTES FOR THE ASHLAND CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Wednesday,July 22, 2015
Siskiyou Room, 51 Winburn Way
1. Call to Order
Roxane Beigel-Coryell called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. in the Siskiyou Room.
Commissioners Risa Buck, Jim Hartman, Shel Silverberg, Mark Weir, Bryan Sohl, James
McGinnis, and Councilor Rich Rosenthal were present. Commissioner Koopman arrived late.
Staff member Adam Hanks and Commissioner Cara Cruickshank were absent.
2. Consent Agenda
None.
3. Announcements
The next commission meeting will be held on August 27, 2015. The climate and energy
subcommittee are scheduled to meet on August 5 and 19, 2015. Sohl stated that they may need to
cancel or reschedule the subcommittee meetings due to busy schedules.
The next compost class will be held on August 15.
Commissioner Marni Koopman arrived at 6:06 p.m.
4. Public Forum
Louise Shawkat- stated the show, "Future of Energy" can now be streamed on-line. She also has
a copy if any commission member would like to borrow it.
Huelz—gave handouts regarding energy use and typical amounts of wasted energy. Stated that
the information on the handout is old and that wasted energy is now 60%, not the 53.2% shown.
He gave details on how energy is typically used and wasted in households. He stated we
frequently don't recognize all energy used because we are not billed for it such as greenhouse
gases. Estimated 30,000 lbs per year per household in greenhouse gases is put into the
atmosphere. Additionally, we need to add in daily uses for things like production of the food we
eat, and the activities we enjoy. Stated that California is working to have all new residential
homes built to net zero by 2020. Previously there was a goal to have all cars electric by 2050 but
the new estimates he's found believe it will be more like 10 years from now.
5. Reports/Presentations/Updates
Downtown Recycling—Hartman introduced Vanston Shaw. He is a Parks and Recreation
Commissioner but is not here in that capacity. He is here as a resident of Ashland. Stated he
would like the Commission to encourage the Council to create a recycling program in downtown
Ashland. He wondered why no downtown recycling is available on a daily basis even though it is
for special events. When he previously approached Council for recycling to be added downtown
he was informed that it is too expensive a program to run. He believes there must be a method
for doing downtown recycling which won't cost too much. He gave history of how the recycling
baskets in Lithia Park were introduced and how they are currently being used and maintained.
Mr. Shaw would like to have a program similar to the Lithia Park baskets in downtown and
Minutes for the Conservation Commission
July 22,2015
Page 2 of 4
suggested that the Commission could encourage businesses to take responsibility for the
maintenance of baskets outside of their businesses.
Biegel-Coryell recommended that if the Commission is interested in pursuing this a
subcommittee be formed to consider options.
Group discussed how many cans were downtown and how much, per can, the Parks Department
spends on this program, including the purchasing of the baskets and staff time in maintaining
them. Buck stated that she has a long history with recycling programs in the downtown area. She
loves how these baskets are being used in the park and would love if they could work in the
downtown area. She stated that there are limitations and challenges to recycling programs in
Ashland which other communities with similar basket programs don't have to face. The biggest
challenge is that we have no sorting facility and so any recycling which is contaminated with
garbage can't be recycled. The Clear Stream recycling program previously tried was a massive
failure due to this contamination. Additionally, Recology trash drivers can only pick up trash and
so this would require a separate pick-up. She feels the concept is good but wants everyone to
understand that it is more complicated than it first appears.
Group agreed that recycling in the downtown is important. Hartman, Buck, Weir, and Biegel-
Coryell agreed to be a subcommittee and work on possible options. They will bring suggestions
back to the group. The group can then determine if forwarding any options to Council is
appropriate.
Council Update— Councilor Rosenthal gave an update on the proposed use of the Imperatrice
Property as a solar farm. Staff and Council determined that Public Works likely has need of the
property for cooling effluent and as this was the reason the property was purchased in the first
place we can't at this time agree to using the property as a solar farm. The overall idea of a solar
farm is not dead but Council will not move forward at that location. He informed the group that
the Mayor is just starting on the process for appointing people to the Climate and Energy Action
Plan group. He also reminded the group that the commissioner appreciation BBQ will be on
August 30. He encouraged the commissioners to attend.
City Conservation chi Operations— Shiplet handed out the 10-cent Bag Ban cards which will be
given to retailers to help inform shoppers of the ban and the 10 cent charge.
Fourth of July—Buck stated that Recology added extra trash cans to each city can. This was not
a great way to encourage recycling but it did prevent cans from overflowing. Hartman stated he
noticed a difference in how clean the streets were after the parade.
Salmon Festival—Buck stated that the event organizers are reaching out to the Mount Ashland
Association in order to connect the dots between upstream and downstream. This connection
might not happen this year but it is a good long-term goal. Organizers are hoping to do a safe
carwash demonstration with the Public Works Department kit.
Ashland School District Quarterly Update—Hartman stated the school garden on Morse Street is
going great. He informed the group that after many years of service, August will be his last
Minutes for the Conservation Commission
July 22,2015
Page 3 of 4
meeting. He is looking for a replacement to suggest to the superintendent. The group thanked
him for his service and offered a few suggestions for replacements.
6. Old Business
Sneak Preview Column— Buck/Koopman m/s to approve the August column as written.
Discussion: McGinnis wanted to make sure Hartman had received the edits he e-mailed.
Hartman confirmed that he had. Voice Vote: All Ayes. Motion Passes.
Group discussed the draft of the September article regarding leaf removal and storm drains. They
felt it was overall okay but was missing key elements such as dog waste, oil from oil changes,
and car wash runoff. Group debated whether or not to include the quiz in the final article, but did
not come to a consensus.
Koopman/Weir m/s to approve the September column, so long as the final draft includes
information on proper disposal of dog waste, car wash runoff, and oil change drippings.
Voice Vote: All Ayes. Motion Passes.
Group discussed upcoming topics and would like the following:
October—Climate and Energy Workshops written by Koopman and or McGinnis
November—Energy report written by Hanks
December—Holiday conservation written by Silverberg
They would also like an article regarding the school efficiency report previously given to the
commission by Jeff Sharp. Hartman will consider if he can write it. Group did not schedule it for
a particular month.
Climate and Energy Sub-committee—Koopman informed the group that she and commissioner
Sohl have a meeting scheduled with Mayor Stromberg, Councilors Marsh and Rosenthal, and
City Administrator Kanner to determine who plays what role in the process. They hope to have
lots of commissioners participate in the process. She was informed by City Attorney Lohman
that she cannot be on the committee due to her job. She gave an overview of the proposed
process that will be discussed at the upcoming meeting. They are still planning to have the Geos
Institute lead a kick-off event on November 15th and all the information gathered at that event
will be given to the Mayor-appointed committee.
McGinnis suggested that the Commission should extend a specific thank you to the Historic
Armory for providing their building for free for the kick-off event.
7. New Business
Leaf Blower/Air Quality Best Practices—No update about this as there has not been a meeting of
the subcommittee.
Commission Budget Discussion—Weir would like to set aside $1,000 for next year's Earth
Bowl.
Weir/Silverberg m/s to earmark$1,000 of the commission budget for the 2016 Earth Bowl.
Minutes for the Conservation Commission
July 22,2015
Page 4 of 4
Discussion: Weir stated that of all the activities this commission has participated in, this year's
Earth Bowl had the most impact. He wants to see it continue and so is requesting that funds be
set aside now. Group agreed the event was successful and they would like to see it continued.
Rosenthal questioned whether the Commission had pursued sponsorship for the event. They had
confusion about what types of sponsorship were allowed for events.
Group asked Weir how he came up with $1,000 as a request. He stated he had assumed the
following:
• Four $50 gift certificates for winning team= $200
• Twelve $25 gift certificates for team coaches = $3 00
• engraving of trophy= $5 0
• advertising (print work or tee shirts) _ $150
• food& drink at the event= $300
TOTAL= $11000
Group discussed the possibility of asking the Ashland Schools Foundation for sponsorship or
financial assistance. They are hesitant to do so until the event is more well-established. Group
discussed possibility of altering the motion to agree to support the event but not include specific
detail of amount to use. They determined that having set a specific amount aside might be easier
when other budget issues arise.
Roll call vote: Buck, Hartman, Sohl, McGinnis, Weir, Silverberg: YES, Koopman: No.
Motion Passes.
Group requested that staff come back with clarification on the requirements and limits of outside
sponsorship for events.
8. Wrap Up
Group agreed to move the November and December commission meetings to the third
Wednesday of those months to avoid the holidays. Those meeting will now take place on
November 18 and December 16.
The 2016 Earth Bowl date will be determined in September in order to better match up with the
School District's calendar.
Meeting adjourned at 7:48 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Diana Shiplet
Executive Assistant
Downtown Bottle & Can Subcommittee Notes (July 29, 2015)
Present: Vanston Shaw, Risa, Roxanne, and Jim Hartman
The Problem: No recycling containers tells the public "recycling isn't important." We need to find a
way.
Update: 20 more baskets have been bought by the Parks and Rec. Department. They are expanding the
program in their area.
What Material do we want to capture?
A. Just returnables? This makes maintenance easy(The homeless would do it), but it misses a
significant fraction of bottles and cans.
B. Cans and Bottles,which will include non-returnables. This option was preferred as it sent a
stronger message that "recycling matters."
The Basic Plan:
A. Go for a voluntary pilot program,where businesses (with a city trash can in front of their
business) adopt, maintain and monitor the baskets. In return they get their name on a small
sign on the basket. Something like: This bottle and can station made possible thanks to
We would like to have one container on each side of each block of down
town, plus 4 around the plaza. If we fall short it's ok, as it is a pilot program.
B. We need to find businesses that would do it if the city council approves the pilot.
C. We discussed a plan that included Parks managing the baskets but we did not want the
additional cost to be a deterrent.
Coalition Building:
A. We hope to get an endorsement for this pilot from the Chamber. This may help inspire
businesses to volunteer. The Ashland Chamber Green Committee meets September 161"
where the idea could be discussed.
B. We would like to invite Bruce Dickens from Parks to attend next subcommittee meeting to
share his expertise and success with his bottle &can basket program.
C. Recology is contracted to collect trash downtown and that their trucks nor existing contract
allow their participation. Since the goal is redeeming bottles and cans, recycling these items
does not support this effort anyway. Recology will provide expertise as the pilot develops.
D. We are hoping to approach several businesses to adopt a basket once approval has been
given by C.C. and then city council.
E. If C.C. approves we discussed creating a "coalition" made up of citizen, Chamber, Parks &
Conservation Commission
F. Consider writing a guest editorial for the Tidings when it is appropriate. This could bring
out awareness and possibly public support for the pilot.
Long Term Possibilities:
A. Contract with Parks to do it since they maintain the flowers and are already in the area.
Perhaps in the next in the next funding cycle.
B. Design a more beautiful curving basket that would fit nicely with the curvy metal trash cans.
Next Actions:
1. Share these minutes with Commission and get their guidance for next steps.
IF the C.C.says YES:
2. Invite Bruce to next subcommittee meeting (Jim will do this)
3. Get feedback from staff about setting up a study session with the city council to discuss
adoption.
4. Share a few pictures: The park recycling basket and a downtown trash can with a recyclable
placed on top of it. (Vanston will send this to Jim).
5. Introduce Basket Pilot to Chamber for support. Hopefully get their involvement to attract
businesses to Adopt a Basket(Risa will do this.)
History:
The Clear Max Bottle & Can container failed in 2 location in the Plaza.There were too many
contaminants and no one to sort through the trash. It was moved to North Mountain Park where it is
working collecting bottles& cans. The new owners at Standing Stone have just been told of their
responsibility to maintain their Clear Max. It's future is unclear. Experience has shown that public
recycling is tricky. To collect more than bottles and cans requires considerable labor&space. Limiting
collection to redeemables provides opportunities to people who need the nickels. Providing a basket
that is clearly marked bottles and cans where the contents can be easily seen and accessed has had
success by Ashland Parks pilot program. We want to build on their success and pilot a similar program
downtown.
What should be on the small sign on the basket? Majority wanted a minimum of words:
A. Recycle bottles and cans here.
B. Quality control? "No plastic drink cups please."
C. This station possible thanks to
Jim was pushing a fun Shakespearean Slogan like:
1. To recycle, or not to recycle: That is the question!
2. "What a piece of work is man, how noble when recycling."
3. A way to recycle, a way to recycle. My kingdom for a way to recycle!
4. "A man can die but once" But not a recyclable.
5. "Is this a recycling container which I see before me. . . . " - (MacBeth: Act II, Scene
I).
6. Place that returnable
"Out of the jaws of death". - (Taming of the Shrew: Act III, Scene IV).
Since we should have at least 6 in the pilot,we could experiment.
These minutes were jointly created by Jim Hartman and Risa Buck 7/30/15
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Protect Our Waterways from Curb to Creek
Have you ever wondered where rainwater goes once it travels down your
driveway and into the street? Did you know that Ashland rain water flows into
one of 4,146 storm drains? Some people assume that storm drain water first goes
to the waste water treatment plant at the end of Oak Street to be "cleansed" of
any contaminants. Unfortunately, this is incorrect. Once water enters a storm
drain it goes directly into one of our creeks. All these creeks connect to Bear
Creek, which then meets the Rogue River and eventually exits into the Pacific
Ocean on the Oregon coast. This means that any cigarette butts, organic debris,
dog poop, or other pollutants are, sadly, floating along the river route, impacting
water quality for fish, plants and other living beings.
Have you ever noticed the blue and silver medallions placed on curbs close to
storm drains in town which say, "NO DUMPING * DRAINS TO STREAM"? These
serve as reminders and to get the attention of people who may not realize that
the distance between your yard & the water's edge is as close as the nearest
storm drain or ditch. You might be surprised how many of these you will notice
now.
Ashland offers several opportunities seasonally and year round to help citizens to
make excellent choices for protecting our waterways. The Ashland Street
Department works hard to keep the City's storm drain system clean and flowing
freely, in part by operating street sweepers. One goal of the street sweeping
program is to prevent flooding (during rain events) and the second is to ensure
the storm drain water is as clean as possible when it flows into our local creeks
and streams.
The fall season keeps the street sweepers especially busy with falling leaves.
Because the leaves picked up from the street also contain residues from vehicles
and other potential contaminants, the City is required to landfill this material. This
means that whatever the street sweeper collects ends up in the landfill. This
includes organic material mixed with trash. Sending organic material, such as
leaves, to the landfill is literally throwing away valuable resources.
You can help by keeping leaves from entering the storm drains which keeps them
from getting clogged and keeps valuable compostable leaves out of the landfill.
What grows in your yard can be composted and it can become a beneficial
product (organic soil). You can turn those leaves into a beneficial product by
either home composting or opting for curbside green debris service to collect
garden and yard material. As an added bonus, keeping leaves and other debris
out of the storm drain reduces operating costs for the City, which saves all of us
money.
Since composting at home is not an option for everyone, here are several
programs available to help residents and businesses keep leaves out of the
streets, including:
• Green debris curbside collection
• Free leaf drop events at the recycle center. There will be two free leaf drop
Sundays at the recycle center on Water Street, on November 15t" and
December 13tn
• Pre-paid leaf bag program. For those unable to transport leaves there is a
pre-paid leaf bag program with a limited discount from October 26 until
November 6. This program is offered November and December only.
The year-round green debris service allows citizens to divert leaves, yard and
garden material into a 95-gallon cart which is picked up twice monthly. You can
modify the service for not shorter than a month at a time. You can also drive this
material out to the transfer station for a fee.
Most of our yards generate organic material that would be best served
composted. If each of us can do our share to care for our curbs by keeping street
debris swept up year round and ensuring that only rain goes down the storm
drain, then our waterways could be protected downstream.
More info is available on these programs are available at
www.RecologyAshland.com or by emailing rbuck@recology.com
Risa Buck serves on the Ashland Conservation Commission and is the Waste Zero
Specialist for Recology Ashland.
The Ashland Climate Challenge - Get"Energized"I.
Conservation Commissioners Marni Koopman and Jim McGinnis
Get ready for a bike parade, movie screening, guest lectures, a scavenger hunt with
fantastic prizes, and much more! We are launching the Ashland Climate Challenge
with 10 days of climate and energy-related activities. It all starts on November 61h
with a Climate Challenge First Friday, followed by daily activities and events, and
culminating with the November 15th Climate Challenge Kickoff event at the
Ashland Armory, featuring free food, music, speakers, and information that can save
you energy and money. This Kickoff event will usher in a year-long challenge to
reduce our greenhouse gas emissions community-wide. The evening will be topped
off with a special Hearth storytelling night that celebrates Stories of Home.
The Geos Institute and Rogue Climate, in partnership with the Oregon Shakespeare
Festival, Southern Oregon University, the City of Ashland, The Hearth,ACCESS, local
businesses, and numerous other groups and individuals are all working together to
celebrate a new energy future for Ashland.We want folks to get"energized" about
saving energy.
We've all heard the bad news about climate change -that the Rogue Basin is
expected to be up to 15 degrees hotter in the summer, that winter storms are
getting bigger, and that wildfires and pests will ravage our forests. Those are serious
impacts,but we also know that if we drastically reduce our emissions,we can still
prevent the most serious impacts to our kids and grandkids.
Recent polls suggest that Americans are ready to reduce our emissions. This is great
news! We don't need to continue to argue about the causes of climate change. We
can start taking action now,with very high public support. Here in Jackson County,
63% of people think that climate change will harm future generations, and three-
quarters of the population wants more renewable energy and regulation of
greenhouse gas pollutants (Yale Climate Opinion Poll 2014). These figures are
similar to the rest of the nation.
Many major cities are aiming to be carbon neutral by 2050 or sooner, including
Boulder, Minneapolis, Seattle, and others. In Oregon. Lincoln City and Portland, OR
both aim for carbon neutrality (where emissions are balanced by sequestered
carbon or offsets). Lake County, Oregon has already gone carbon neutral by
completely offsetting their greenhouse gas emissions with renewable energy.
Communities are recognizing the economic benefits as well, as production of
renewable energy strengthens the local economy while energy conservation saves
residents and businesses money.
Unfortunately,time for action on climate change is growing short. But we already
know our community can come together to make meaningful change quickly and
collaboratively. Last year,Ashland residents saved 30% of our normal water use
without mandated cuts. We can easily do the same with energy.
At the Ashland Climate Challenge Kickoff on November 1 Sth we will introduce
you to the Mayor's Ad-hoc Committee of local residents who are helping to craft
effective community-wide strategies for reducing emissions and protecting people
from the impacts of climate change. Speakers from SOU, local businesses, and the
City will share their bold plans for energy savings in the coming years. We will have
information on how you can make your homes, businesses, and cars more efficient
and what programs and incentives are available to help. Most importantly,we are
seeking input on how we can help you take part in the Climate Challenge. Do you
need more accessible financing?Tax information? Ideas? Supplies? Hands-on
assistance? Please come and tell us how to best support your efforts.
The Ashland Climate Challenge Kickoff is intended to get our community moving
on real and measurable change. Come and hear about the THREE THINGS that each
and every resident can do to make a difference.And due to the generosity and
dedication of our local sponsors,we have amazing prizes to offer for businesses and
residents that save the most energy. For those of you wanting to get more involved,
please visit our Facebook page and sign up to help or to become a sponsor.
Note to Conservation Commissioners-many of these ideas are being fleshed out
still, so we don't yet have specifics. OSF is working on a series of theatrical pieces to
support the effort, but we don'tyet know what that will look like.As we get more
information, I will update this piece to reflect that.At this time, I would love any and
everyone's help in getting sponsors, lining up prizes, coming up with the THREE
THINGS that people can do, taking on the planning for any of the TEN DAYS of events,
etc. Please let me know how you can help! Thank you.
Hi all-
I won't be at the meeting on wednesday but wonder if you could cover the following
things, depending on time.
First, the attached article outlines the 10-day launch of the Ashland Climate Challenge (where we
ask people to do THREE things). There will be 10 days of activities/events/music/bike parade/etc.
starting Nov. 6th.
It would be great to know if the Commission would (1) help us develop the challenge itself(what 3
things should people do and how do we track them, (2) help volunteer at First Friday to be stationed
at galleries and talk to people about the challenge and the Kickoff event for the planning process, (3)
help to get student volunteers involved as we will need a lot of them for the event itself, and (4)
sponsor one of the 10 events/activities/performances. The Conservation Commission could choose
to host a movie downtown, a musical event, a guest lecture, etc. etc. There are so many options!
IF the Conservation Commission is willing to take on one of the 10 days of the Ashland Climate
Challenge launch, then we might want to keep the Climate and Energy subcommittee intact for now,
and have it focus on that one thing?? Otherwise I believe it might be disbanded for now, which is
fine.
Also, I have attached my draft Sneak Preview article but I don't think its ready to vote on. We haven't
finalized the name, and some of the event details have to be worked out. But I'm fine getting early
feedback so that folks have a better idea of what's going on. I will incorporate andy feedback and
send out a final version for the next meeting.
Have a great meeting!
m
Marni Koopman, Ph.D. Climate Change Scientist/Wildlife Biologist Geos Institute 971-221-9868;
marnikoopman(a�yahoo.com
Submitted 8/20/15
Hello Commissioners—
(From Cara)
Here is the back story on the proposed "Herbicides Resolution"for you to examine before our
next meeting. As it's the first topic that I'm introducing to the Commission, and something I have
a strong background in, I'm looking forward to discussing it with you all. We'll talk about
whether or not we want to endorse this effort, or if there's another way we can help move this
forward. So please read this and then examine the links at the bottom for more info on the
science behind our concerns. Thanks!
Cara
Advocates for Healthy Landscapes (AHL) is a new environmental group that I'm working with
in Ashland. Their goal is to have the City issue a Resolution about not using the toxic herbicides
Round Up and 2,4-D. The Parks &Rec department have already reduced their use of these
products, but to some extent, both are applied to landscapes like golf courses and ball fields, and
the state still applies copious amounts along roads and highways statewide, including Ashland.
Sadly, these chemicals are also still being applied by the County around schools. So the state
and many citizens using these products, think they're benign and short-term. In fact, we now
know that he opposite is true...and this is finally being more highly publicized with the World
Health Organization's recent report that glyphosate is a Class 2, 'probable carcinogen'. Many
additional articles about the dangers of glyphosate and 2,4-D to human, insect, and aquatic life,
are available online, including the information provided by IRT, and an article posted by Dr.
Mercola. (see links below) The EPA is investigating the product, along with several other
pesticides, as to its impact on 1500 insects. Another study was released that documented
glyphosate's direct correlation to navigational issues of honeybees. 2,4-D (an ingredient in
"Weed & Feed" plus many other products) was a main ingredient on Agent Orange, and created
enormous reproductive health issues in Vietnam Vets, (it affects sperm) not to mention the
devastation to the Vietnamese people and their environment.In short, no one should be
applying any products containing these two high-hazard herbicides when there are
alternatives that are safer for people,pets,fish, wildlife, and water quality.
Solutions: For personal health and public safety, pulling, chopping, sheet mulching and eating
(by goats or people!) as well as burning during the wetter seasons, are the best ways to deal with
unwanted weeds. But for large areas and when manual labor is cost prohibitive, there are non-
synthetic, non-toxic methods available, such as vinegar, citric acid, salt, acetic acid, plant oils,
etc. I have promoted these products in WA. when I was the Natural Resources Education&
Outreach consultant for the City of Bainbridge Island. I developed pollution prevention
protocols, promoted some of these natural products, and a few of them were very effective. The
drawback is that they can acidify the soil where it's applied; but the solution is adding lime to fix
the PH. They burn things, but at least these natural products are not carcinogenic, or hormone
disrupting, or persistently toxic in the ground and water. I know this is a long list, but please
look at at least the first 2 of these before our meeting. the first one is the World Health
Announcement about Glyhosphate, and the 3rd one is about 2,4-D
http://www.iarc.fr/en/media-centre/iarcnews/pdf/MonographVolumel 12.pdf
http://www.rounduprisks.com/glyphosate-info.html
http://www.nrdc.org/health/pesticides/2-4
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/02/13/glyphosate-ddt-alzheimers.aspx
http://www.hcn.org/articles/epa-study-roundup-1-500-endangered-species-agriculture-pesticides/
http://www.pesticide.org/resources for garden - lots of links to learn about better ways to take
care of'weeds'
Our group (AHL) is proposing that the City discourage all of its citizens from use of these
products by educating them as to their toxicity. It's not that we just want the City, County, and
State to stop using it within city limits, its actually everybody!
This is the language we are asking people to sign on to for the resolution:
"I support the City of Ashland passing a resolution encouraging everyone within
City limits to discontinue the use of herbicides containing glyphosate * and/or 2,4 D * and
to promote safe methods."
* some labels:Roundup, Touchdown, Rodeo, Pronto®Big N' Tuf,Ranger Pro, Bonide
Kleen Up and Ground Force Veg. Killer,ERASER Weed& Grass Killer, Glyphomate 41,
Glypro, Compare-N-Save, Bi Mart Owner's Choice Weed& Grass Killer and Lawn Weed
Killer Southern Ag Crossbow &Amine Weedkiller,Ace Lawn Weed Killer
Ashland Municipal Code
9.28 Pesticide Policy
9.28.010
The pesticide policy set forth in this chapter is adopted for all departments and
divisions of the City of Ashland. This policy does not apply to the Ashland
Parks and Recreation Department which is administered by the Ashland Parks
and Recreation Commission. The Ashland Parks and Recreation Department
has a similar policy in place.
9.28.020
This policy is designed to reduce the risk of illness or injury resulting from city
employee and citizen exposure to pesticides used in the course of performing
city operations and also from the accidental exposure of employees and other
persons to such pesticides. The policy requires city workplace practices
designed to reduce or eliminate the use of, and exposure to, pesticides.
9.28.030
Use of pesticides, including but not limited to herbicides, insecticides and
growth retardants, shall be eliminated by the city except as provided in this
chapter.
A. Mechanical and cultural methods shall be utilized whenever practical for
control of noxious vegetation and pests. Practicality shall be determined by an
Oregon Certified Pesticide Applicator and the respective department head or
the department head's designee. Worker safety and terrain shall be among the
factors considered in this judgement.
B. When mechanical and cultural methods are not practical, only the safest,
lowest toxicity products available shall be used. No "restricted use" pesticides
shall be used.
C. Primarily, species which do not require high inputs of herbicide shall be
used in landscaping.
D. City staff shall monitor noxious vegetation and pest populations and rely on
biological control when appropriate and effective.
9.28.040
All pesticides shall be applied by, or under the supervision of, an Oregon
Certified Pesticide Applicator. The certified applicator shall be responsible for
overseeing and authorizing all pesticide use by city staff.
A. If pesticides with active ingredients having a greater acute toxicity than table
salt (LD 50 = 2,500) are applied, the area of application shall be posted in
advance and for the duration of the re-entry time specified on the pesticide
label or MSDS sheet. For those application areas within fifty feet of the
property line of a residence, written notice shall be given to such residence by
mail or personally delivered.
B. Effort shall be made to determine the LD 50 of inert ingredients prior to
application of a pesticide. If pesticides with inert ingredients having a greater
acute toxicity than table salt (LD 50 = 2,500) are applied, the area of
application shall be posted in advance and for the duration of the re-entry time
specified on the pesticide label or MSDS sheet. For those application areas
within fifty feet of the property line of a residence, written notice shall be given
to such residence by mail or personally delivered.
C. Consideration shall be given to the possible short and long-term adverse
impacts of the application upon humans, animals and plants of the proposed
pesticide and of any chemical alternatives.
D. Different pesticides shall not be mixed.
E. No application shall be made when wind, rain, temperature or other
environmental conditions would likely cause the pesticide to drift off target or
onto adjoining property.
F. A written record shall be kept of all pesticide applications. Such records are
to include the following information:
1. Name of applicator and date and time of application.
2. Substance used and location applied.
3. Mixing ratio.
4. Total amount used.
5. Weather conditions.
6. Other pertinent information.
7. Name of certified applicator and department head who approved application.
9.28.050
A. No city employee shall use or apply any pesticide without prior training.
Training shall include effective and alternative methods of pest control as well
as safety considerations. The city administrator shall designate a city
employee to be responsible for the creating and overseeing a training and
education program.
B. No city employee shall use or apply any pesticide mechanically or by hand
without approval of the employee's department head or the department head's
designee and event specific authorization from a certified applicator.
9.28.060 Purchase of Pesticides
Pesticides shall only be purchased by the City Purchasing Agent after
consultation with a certified applicator and the approval of the respective
department head or the department head's designee.
9.28.070 Storage of Pesticides
All pesticides shall be stored in a safe, secure environment. The purchasing
agent, certified applicators and department heads shall have exclusive access
to the storage area.
9.28.080 Annual Review
An annual review of policies and procedures regarding the use and application
of pesticides shall be conducted at the department head level. Attendance at
the review is mandatory for all city personnel who apply pesticides.
9.28.090 Violation of Policy
Violation of any of any portion of this policy shall be grounds for disciplinary
action.
(Ord 2790, 1996)
Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission
April 14, 2014 Study Session Minutes
ANNUAL IPM POLICY REVIEW
Robertson spoke about issues and challenges facing the department with
regard to current restrictions posed by the Parks Integrated Pest Management
(IPM) policy. Ashland parks and properties had been pesticide-free for four
years, including contracted areas maintained for the City of Ashland including
non-park areas such as median strips, parking lots, the Ashland Municipal
Airport, and the City maintenance yard on `B' Street. Those areas were
overgrown with weeds and staff requested allowances for herbicide
treatments. Due to the location of the contracted areas, volunteers were not
interested in weeding them by hand, nor would it be safe for them to do so.
Robertson asked the commission for permission to use herbicides, when
requested by the City of Ashland, on City-owned lands, excluding parks. This
would require modifications to the commission's IPM policy at an upcoming
regular meeting, with public input solicited and planned for that agenda item.
Staff also requested an exemption for proper application of herbicides at
bullpens and warning tracks within North Mountain Park ballfields for
purposes of safety.
Parks Horticulturist Anne Thayer said the department received a letter from
Jackson County Cooperative Weed Management asking the commission to
target and control two invasive species, Japanese knotweed and spurge,
within riparian areas. Thayer said this would also require an exemption within
the current Parks IPM policy.
Discussion Among Commissioners
Landt said the City of Ashland could be charged more, allowing Parks to hire
additional staff for maintaining those areas. Alternatively, the City could do the
work themselves and choose to apply herbicides. He spoke in favor of future
park design alterations for parking lots and medians for better weed
management and prevention.
Seffinger said not using herbicides to curb the spread of invasive species
would also have a negative effect on the environment.
Shaw said delineating areas where herbicides could be used and areas that
were pesticide-free might allow the department to continue adequately
maintaining the contracted areas for the City.
Lewis said traditionally Parks maintained non-park areas for the City. He
pointed out that the commission made past exceptions to the Parks IPM
policy, allowing for satisfactory maintenance, including application of
herbicides at the Oak Knoll Golf Course and ballfields.
Gardiner asked whether it would cost the City less to contract out to a different
company for maintenance of those areas and Robertson said probably yes.
Parks provided enormous quantities of labor and community service workers
for weeding those areas but Parks was losing the battle with weeds.
Conservation Commission — Annual Report to Council
Activities, projects and events completed in FY15
• Annual set of compost classes in Fall of 2014
• Recycle Center Committee—Recommendations approved by Council in late fall of 2014
• Plastic Bag Ban—Resolution adopted by Council Fall of 2014
• Downtown Storm Drain collections project—Led to pilot program for cigarette butt
containers in 8 locations downtown.
• STAR Framework research, review and presentation Fall 2014—Received Council
direction to focus on Climate Action/Energy. Resulted in Spring 2015 presentation to
Council for community Climate Action and Energy Plan with ad-hoc committee formed
and appointed summer of 2015
• Presentation from Bee City USA organizers. Commission support helped lead to Council
and Parks Commission approval for Ashland passing Bee City USA resolution
• Conservation Corner articles in Sneak Preview— 8 published so far. Topics include:
1) Holiday related waste
2)New Year's Waste Zero Challenge
3) Earth Bowl
4) Residential Energy Efficiency
5) Water Conservation
6) Climate Action Planning—Intro
7) Composting
8)Ashland School District Conservation Efforts
9)Water Quality/Storm Drains/Leaf Programs (Publish date August)
• Successful inaugural Earth Bowl competition with Ashland Middle School/Siskiyou
School/John Muir/Willow Wind students eligible to participate—Spring of 2015
• Carbon Pricing—Research/review with presentation to Council to recommend formal
Council support of HB 3470—Resulted in Mayor letter of support to State Rep bill
sponsors— Summer of 2015
Items in progress or planned for the upcoming year
• Community Climate Action and Energy Plan—Commission sub-committee
that has been working on the project for the past year(and longer) now form the
core of the Ad-Hoc Committee that the Mayor/Council have formed to see the
project through.
• Bag Ban Review—The plastic bag ban ordinance includes language that calls for
a Council review in January of 2016. The Commission anticipates being a part of
that review process.
• Air Quality—Leaf Blowers—A citizen raised issue to the Commission. The
Commission formed asub-committee to discuss and recommend to the full
Commission what type of actions could be recommended for the City to take to
address this issue.
• Downtown/Sidewalk Recycling—Citizen raised issue to the Commission. The
Commission formed asub-committee to discuss and recommend to the full
Commission what type of actions could be recommended for the City to take to
address this issue.
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