HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-10-08 PACKET 03.B.City of Woodbury
Environmental Commission Events and Initiatives
Joint Commission Meeting October 8, 2014
Commission News
In 2015, the Woodbury Environmental Advisory Commission (EAC) will be merged with the
Woodbury Parks and Recreation Commission, with the new commission being called the
Woodbury Parks and Natural Resources Commission. In addition to the historical EAC
activities, the new commission will also be charged with overseeing parks and open space, and
recreational programming. The new commission will be undertaking a strategic planning
process early in 2015 to develop a work plan for the year.
Commission Sponsored Events
Water Conservation Education Activities. The Woodbury City Council asked the EAC to
provide public education regarding water conservation in 2014. EAC members developed
four brochures (enclosed) on various aspects of water conservation: 1) indoor water use, 2)
lawn irrigation, 3) measuring household use and monitoring for leaks, and 4) general water
conservation. The brochures were distributed at the St. Ambrose Environmental Fair on
March 20th and the Woodbury Community Expo on May 3rd. At both events an interactive
"Take the Water Conservation Pledge" activity was offered. A visual of a jar of muddy
Mississippi River water next to a jar of pumped groundwater was used to help people
appreciate the increased cost of treatment associated with drawing water from the river.
Curbside Recycling Event May 12 -15— The Commission works with licensed haulers to
provide a curbside recycling service, targeting appliances, tires and scrap metal. Haulers
agree to offer a one -time reduced fee for this annual event (see insert).
Other Commission Activities
Bike/Pedestrian Survey, September 9 and 13 . "Complete Streets" are designed and operated
to enable safe access for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit
riders of all ages and abilities." The Woodbury EAC performed a "gaps analysis" of City
streets and trails, identifying areas where pedestrian and bike access is limited or dangerous.
The list of gaps is being incorporated into the City's GIS system, for reference as roadway
reconstruction projects come up in the future. In addition, the EAC coordinated Woodbury's
second annual pedestrian/bicyclist traffic count in mid - September. Thirty volunteers counted
bikes and pedestrians at various intersections and trails throughout the City. A map of the
locations monitored in 2014 is attached.
Green Times Newsletter — The Green Times is published three times a year and focuses on
topics related to sustainability. The March and July 2014 issues of the Green Times
Newsletter are enclosed.
• Environmental Excellence Awards August /September — This is an annual awards program
recognizing businesses, organizations, and individuals that are making Woodbury a more
sustainable community. Award categories include: green building, energy efficiency and
conservation, green remodeling, use of renewable or alternative energy, waste reduction and
recycling, environmental education, water conservation, innovative stormwater management
practices, sustainable business practices, and youth leadership. The Commission reviews the
entries and presentation of the awards is made during a City Council meeting.
Other City Projects
Bielenberg Sports Center (BSC) — The new 90,000 square -foot field house and lobby
expansion project was built to meet the State's Sustainable Building Standard (B3). The
building includes a geothermal system for heating and cooling, as well as a solar thermal
system for water heating. More than 30 recycling bins were purchased for the new and
existing portions of the building. The bins are transitionable so they can be easily converted
to handle food composting in the future.
Commercial Recycling This year, grant funds were made available through BizRecycling, a
joint program developed through the Ramsey/Washington County Resource Recovery
Project to provide technical assistance to businesses to develop and implement solid waste
recycling and organic recovery programs. The funding will also assist businesses in
preparing for new legislation beginning in January 2016, requiring most commercial building
owners to collect at least three recyclable materials from their waste. A cluster of 42
businesses in the Woodbury and Oakdale area have applied for a grant for recycling bins
though the program. Washington County signed a 2 -year grant agreement with Woodbury to
fund a part -time, two year position to help local businesses (including those that have already
received grant assistance) establish recycling programs and prepare for the new legislation
Woodbury is currently interviewing for the part -time position.
First, check for leaks -------------- - - - - --
With all water fixtures turned off, check the small, red "spinner" on your
water meter dial. If it is moving, you have a leak. To find out how much
water the leak is wasting, follow the steps outlined below, but take your
readings only one hour apart. Multiply your results by 24 and you will know
how much water is being wasted every day.
Determine your water use ---------- - - - - --
Take the following steps to determine how much water you use over a period
of time:
1 Read the odometer on your water meter and write it down
completely. Then write down the date you read it. After a period of
days (e.g., 7 days) read the odometer again and write it down and
write down the date.
2 Subtract the first reading from the second reading. This is your water
use in gallons during the period.
Divide the water use in gallons by the number of days between
readings.
Divide the water use in gallons by the number of people living in
your house. This is your average gallons per person per day during
the measurement period.
Starting water meter odometer reading
Ending water meter odometer rending _
Subtract line l from Iitie 2 3.
1) [vide Iine 3 by the numl-er of days between readings 4.
Divide l!tie 4 b the number of people living in the borne 5.
Line S is your per capita per day w ater usage.
(date )
Line 5 is your per person per day water usage
Roughly 40 percent of water used in Woodbury
is used for irrigation. Here are some tips for
effective lawn watering:
New Lawn Installation------------- - - - - --
• Keep soil moist but not soaking wet.
• Water lightly three to four times a day until the new grass reaches
about one inch high, then cut back watering to once a day.
Start mowing when the grass reaches around 2.5 to three inches in
height.
• After the third mowing, begin watering grass as same rate as an
established lawn (see below).
Established Lawn -
• Your lawn needs about one inch of water per week during the
growing season.
• Irrigate no more than twice per week, applying only enough water
so that rainfall and irrigation combined supply one inch of water
each week.
• Measure one inch by placing an empty tuna can six feet away from
your sprinklers to determine how long it takes to fill, then use that
information to program your system effectively (or set a timer to
turn off the sprinkler).
• Spread out watering to allow multiple days in between.
• Water early in the morning, preferably between 4 and 8 a.m.
• Remember, no watering is allowed between noon and 5 p.m.
• Equip your irrigation system with a bucket -style rain sensor, or a
moisture sensor, and inspect monthly to ensure proper operation.
• Mow to a height of three inches. Taller grass shades the roots and
soil surface, reducing evaporation.
For additional watering tips, visit
vv vv w.ci.woodbury.mi .us /environmenQ
water- restrictions - conservation /watering -tips
How much water do you use inside your house?
Whether or not you have the best water using habit, your house can make a big difference in how much water you use
every day. Assuming you are an average water user, how much water would you use in your house?
Question 1: How old is your house?
Daily Usage
A. It was built in 1994 or newer (Add 40 gallons; skip to Question #5)
B. It was built in 1993 or older (Add 70 gallons)
C. I don't know (Add 70 gallons) Gallons of water
Question 2: Have you replaced your toilet in the past 10 years?
A. Yes, I have replaced all of them (Subtract ao gallons)
B. Yes, I have replaced some of them (Subtract 5 gallons)
C. No, we have the original toilets (No change, o gallons) Gallons of water
Question 3: Have you replaced your showerheads in the past 10 years?
A. Yes, I have replaced all of them (Subtract 3 gallons)
B. Yes, I have replaced some of them (Subtract 1.5 gallons)
C. No, the showerheads are fine as they are (No change, o gallons)
Question 4: Have you replaced your faucets in the past 10 years?
A. Yes, I have replaced all of them (Subtract 3 gallons)
B. Yes, I have replaced some of them (Subtract 1.5 gallons)
C. No, the original faucets are classy (No change, o gallons)
Question 5: Do you bathe instead of shower?
A. Yes, I love my Jacuzzi /bathtub and use it all the time (Add 6o gallons)
B. Yes, I bathe maybe twice a week instead of shower (Add 10 gallons)
C. No, I shower for the most part (No change, o gallons)
Question 6: Do you hand wash or use dishwasher?
A. Usually hand wash (Add 3 gallons)
B. Usually dish wash (Add 1 gallon)
C. Mostly dish wash but sometimes I hand wash too (Add a gallons)
Question 7: What type of washing machine do you have?
A. Front loading (Add 7 gallons)
B. Top loading, rated energy and water efficient (Add 7 gallons)
C. Top loading, no special rating /standard (Add 11 gallons)
a ble W
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Lnvironmertal
Gallons of water _
Gallons of water _
[Gallons of water +
Gallons of water +
Gallons of water +
Total Usage:
A v!sory Lommiss!On
The average national household water use is loo gallons per capita (for each person) per day. This includes both
indoor and outdoor use. In Woodbury, the average indoor use is 58 gallons per capita per day, and the combined
indoor and outdoor use is 90 gallons per capita per day. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
recommends a goal of 75 gallons per capita per day.
(,PD = g.illons per day
Which zone are you in?
somvival
Inuff __w
t
Every human
needs 6 GPD for
drinking and
ft M 0020 Unsustainable
DNR oal— National a}�rage=
g — Woodbury
75 GPD 100 GPD
aivrage=
sanitation 90 GPD
--- - - - - -- How to make your house water -smart --- - - - - --
Bathroom
A family can save 14,000 to 25,000 gallons of water per year by switching from conventional to more efficient toilets.
Toilets made before 1994 use 3.5 to 8 gallons per flush. High efficiency toilets manufactured after 1994 use 1.6 gallons
per flush or less. Install vacuum assisted, low- volume toilets and check for toilet leaks by placing food coloring in your
toilet tank. Repairing leaking toilets can save more than boo gallons of water per month.
Shower
Check the flow rate of your showerhead by using a five - gallon bucket and a clock. Turn the shower on full and place a
five- gallon bucket under the shower for one minute. If it fills up or close to being filled up, you can install low -flow
showerheads that use no more than two gallons per minute. Low -flow showerheads are designed to use less water and
still provide the same invigorating spray as their water - wasting counterparts. A family of four could save over 11,000
gallons per year. You also should check and repair leaks in the tub diverter valve.
Faucet
Checking and repairing faucet leaks can save up to 140 gallons of water per week, or over 7,000 gallons per year. Install
low -flow faucet aerators. Some aerators can restrict flow to less than one gallon per minute. Consider installing an
instant water heater on the kitchen faucet. This reduces the time needed to run water until it becomes hot.
Washing Machines
Conventional washing machines use between 35 to 50 gallons per load. The newer front - loading machines are more
efficient and use between 18 to 20 gallons per load.
Dishwasher
Running the dishwasher only when it's full can save 1,00o gallons of water per month per household. Install a high
efficiency dishwasher.
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Brought to you by the City of Woodbury
W OO in partnership with your local trash and
bu ry _ recycling hauler.
CURBSIOE RECYCLING EVENT
APPLIANCES TIRES SCRAP METAL (These items only!)
CaU 6 V & n v*, Cdpmd 2 8, to Adwdufe, a p -&k - *!
Am it WOAAA
®ci Major Appliances* $15 Call your trash hauler for a pick -up
Hot water heater, washer, dryer, stove, • by Monday, April 28
refrigerator (no gas ammonia refrigerators), To take advantage of this one -time,
A microwave, freezer, dishwasher, residential reduced -fee pick -up, you MUST contact
furnace, dehumidifier, humidifier, garbage your hauler to schedule a pick -up by
disposal, water softener, window air Monday, April 28. No exceptions.
conditioner
* Commercial -size appliances are NOT accepted. Please note: Advanced Disposal Services ... (651) 487 -8546
Items that do Highland Sanitation ..........(651) 458 -0043
not meet these Maroney's Sanitation ......... (651) 439 -7279
Tires $4 specifications will Republic Services ...........(651) 455 -8634
Bike /innertube, car, not be picked up Tennis Sanitation ............(651) 459 -1887
motorcycle, lighttruck byyourhauler, or Troje'sTrash Pickup ..........(651) 459 -8223
Largertires: contact may be subject to Waste Management .......... (952) 890 -1100
your haulerfor quote. additional fees as
determined by the
hauler. Pick -up happens May 12 -15
Scrap Metal Free Pick -up will take place on a designated day
All wood, plastic, rubber, and other the week of May 12 -15. Items must be at
non -metal items must be removed. the curb by 6 a.m. Details will be provided
► All fluids must be drained and plastic/ when you schedule your pick -up.
rubber wheels removed from lawn Please call your hauler to notify them
"- mowers and snow blowers. if items scheduled for pick -up are not
at the curb.
Unacceptable Items - following items will not be picked
Fees for the items you dispose of will be
■ charged by your hauler. Your hauler may
► Household ► Lawn and patio ► Construction/ require payment in advance.
hazardous waste furniture demolition waste
► Electronics ► Vacuum cleaners ►Yard waste These special reduced prices are available only for this event!
► Household items ► Wood ► Glass and mirrors
► Carpeting This event is open to residential customers only, and excludes
businesses and apartment complexes with centralized trash service.
f� Q uestions?
Call yourtrash hauler!
Disposal Options for Other Materials
Electronics and Household Hazardous Waste
These items should be taken to the Washington County
Environmental Center during regular business hours.
(see box below)
Reusable Items
• List them on the Twin Cities FREE Market:
The free market is a web -based residential exchange
program forthe exchange of reusable and durable
household goods.
www.twincitiesfreemarket.org
• Check the Residential Disposal Guide at:
www.co.washington.mn.us
No scavenging, please!
It is unlawful for any person
or business to scavenge or
otherwise collect garbage,
other refuse, recyclables, white
goods, or yard waste at the
curb or from recycling containers without a license.
If you see someone tampering with and/or removing
curbside recyclables and they do not appear to be a
licensed hauler, please contact the Woodbury Public
Safety Department at: (651) 439 -9381. If possible,
attempt to obtain a description and license plate
number of the vehicle involved.
Hazardous materiall'Flelectronlicror
. I '
Washington
Environmental
4039 Cottage Grove Drive
Center
Count
Woodbury, MN 55129
Have hazardous materials Open year-round-
electronics, or recyclables that
1 -94
you need to get rid of? Bring Tuesdays: Noon — 7 p.m.
a'
them to Washington County's Thursdays: 9 a.m. — 2 p.m.
Valley
yC,",4
Center in Woodbury. Saturdays: 9 a.m. — 2 p.m.
*Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas
°
Eve & Day, New Year's & other major
holidays
1 -494 Environmental
OR
N Center
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Bailey Rd 40th St.
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Proof of residency, such as a driver's license, is required. Materials are
accepted from residents of Washington, Anoka, Carver, Chisago, Dakota,
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Hennepin, and Ramsey Counties only.
p� Y Y.
ELECTRONICS
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www.co.washington.mn.us /envirocenter 651- 430 -6655
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A special edition for Woodkury residents k the Environmental Advisory Commission
Compost bins
and rain barrels
for sale
As the anticipation grows for the arrival of spring,
consider purchasing a compost bin or rain barrel.
Both items will be available at upcoming events
in Woodbury and surrounding communities.
Compost bins
St. Ambrose of Woodbury and the Alliance for
Sustainability are selling compost bins for $50
each through a distribution event at the church.
Bins must be pre - ordered by April 12 and be
picked up Saturday, April 26, between 1 and 3
p.m. in the St. Ambrose Church parking lot, 4125
Woodbury Drive.
For more information, visit www.allianceforsus-
tainability.comor call (612) 250 -0389. The web-
continued on back
Water: A resource we can't live without
By: Roger Splinter
Environmental Advisory Commission chair
Water conservation has become a major topic
across the country, The Folsum Lake area in
California is experiencing the worst drought in 500
years and the water shortage is threatening 17
communities that could run out of water in 60 -120
days. While many western states like California are
water poor, Minnesota is a water rich state. Yet
water conservation is still an important issue for
Minnesotans. We may have numerous lakes, but the
water in those lakes is not drinkable.
Because of the high quality, adequate groundwater
resource providing water, Woodbury is not in a cri-
sis mode. The proactive actions of City Council and
city staff in developing a Water Resource Policy
Statement and Strategy is important in considering
the future issues. The reality is the current water
use pattern cannot keep pace with the projected
population growth for the community. Woodbury
currently pumps an average of approximately
7.7 million gallons per day. This equates to each
resident using about 125 gallons of water per day.
This assumes that some residents are on private
wells and includes indoor and outdoor use.
Like most Minnesotans, Woodbury residents get
their water from groundwater wells. Woodbury
wells are drilled into the Prairie du Chien - Jordan
aquifer system. This aquifer is naturally recharged
with surface water, so lake levels are important
indicators of the quantity of groundwater available.
Therein lies the reason for the need to address the
issue of quantity available and the need to consider
conservation measures.
Conserving water in the home
What can residents do to help conserve water? To
further address the issue, we need to educate our-
selves about water consumption. We can divide the
water usage into indoor and outdoor use. Although
a majority of water is used on outdoor activities,
primarily irrigation, I will focus on indoor use.
continued on back
Source: Minnesota Pollution 4ntrol Agency
\ I
This image illustrates
a simple version of the
/
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water cycle. Water is
saturat¢a -�. 4 ,�. 1
constantly moving and
Lvaporation
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changing as it trans-
forms into precipitation,
Flom
surface water, ground -
eventually become
water, or evaporation.
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As water falls to the
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ground as precipitation,
saturat¢a -�. 4 ,�. 1
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it is either infiltrated
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into the ground to
Flom
eventually become
tiand A nd Grar¢I V¢lsosils.
groundwater, or it
rarturrc Rer k
remains above - ground
as runoff that flows
as surface water into
lakes, ponds or storm sewers. Water that infiltrates into the ground can
slowly recharge ground-
water aquifers, which is where Woodbury gets its drinking water.
Surface water and ground water are connected, and can be affected by impacts from one another.
gremTumufpeciaGEdh*K,• AXarclv2O14 • page, 2
Welcome spring at March 29
Landscape Workshop
and Green Fair
Are you interested in learning about how to incor-
porate native plants into your home landscape?
The Minnesota Extension Master Gardeners in
Washington County are hosting a Landscape
Workshop Saturday, March 29. The event is
scheduled from 8 a.m. to noon and will take place
in the Council Chambers on the second floor of
Woodbury City Hall, 8301 Valley Creek Road. For
more information, visit www.mastergardenersin-
washingtonco.org and click on "Calendar."
Green Fair at St. Ambrose
In the afternoon, stop by the Green Fair hosted by
St. Ambrose of Woodbury, 4125 Woodbury Drive.
The event is scheduled from i1 a.m. to 3 p.m.
and will feature speakers, educational booths and
hands -on activities for people of all ages. There
also will be an opportunity to order compost bins
at the event. For more information, visit www.
saintambroseof voodbury.org and select "Green
Fair"
Both events are free and open to the public.
Save the Date!
The fifth annual Curbside Recycling Event is scheduled May 12 -15. The citi's Environmental
Advisory Commission will again partner with licensed trash haulers to provide curbside recy-
cling of appliances, tires and scrap metal at a one -time reduced rate. A flyer will be mailed
to all households in early April with cost, participation deadlines and contact information to
schedule your pick -up. Additional information will be available at: www.woodburysustainabil-
ity,com. For questions, contact Jennifer McLoughlin at jmcloughlin @ciwoodbury.mn.us.
Compost ... from front
site also provides information on additional pick- a pick -up date must be selected at the time of
up opportunities in Stillwater and Mahtomedi. purchase.
For more information about the compost bin, visit
www. earthmachine:com.
Rain barrels
In addition, the Recycling Association of
Minnesota is selling rain barrels for $69 each
through distribution events within the Twin Cities
Metro area. Orders must be placed online and
To place your order online, go to
www.allianceforsustainability.corWcompostbin-
sale and select the most convenient sale event to
begin your purchase.
Water ... from front
Here are some typical examples of water quanti-
ties used inside the home, according to the F.S.
Geological Survey website:
1 Shower: 2 -4 gallons per minute (depending
on type of shower head)
1 Bath: 40 gallons per bath
1 Dishwasher: 4 -20 gallons per load (depend-
ing on dishwasher efficiency)
1 Clothes washer: 20 -40 gallons per load
(depending on washer age)
1 Toilet. 3 gallons (new models use 1.6 gal-
lons) per flush
1 Miscellaneous washing (face, hands, teeth
brushing, shaving, etc.): 3 gallons per day
Here are some things that you can do at home to
reduce your water use indoors:
1 Shorter showers (reduce by 25 -50 percent)
1 Only wash full loads of dishes and clothes
1 When replacing faucets and toilets, choose
water efficient models
1 When replacing appliances, choose water
efficient models
Everyone can make an effort to save water.
Simply drilling more wells in the future is not a
solution, and paying for treatment of Mississippi
River water would be wasteful when groundwater
can be used if the community is able to conserve.
For more information about reducing water use in
your home, visit Ww , . conserveh2o.org.
The Green Times insert is published by the City
of Woodbury and the Woodbury Environmental
Advisory Commission. The commission advises
the City Council regarding matters relevant to
sustainability including solid waste, air, water,
land, energy and other natural resources.
The commission meets on the fourth Monday
of the month. For information about meeting
times and agenda, call (651) 714 -3500 during
regular business hours, or visit the Woodbury
website at www.ci.woodbury:mn.us,
Environmental Advisory Commission members
are: Roger Splinter, Chair, dim Nluehlbauer,
Ryan Newcomer, Ken Scott, Maria Takahashi
and Stephanie i6ang.
Suggestions and comments regarding this
insert are welcomed. Contact,fentnfer
McLoughlin at (651) 714 -3522 or send an
email to jmclohghlin @ci.woodburymn.us.
Printed on recycled paper with 50 percent
post- consumer waste.
Explore Woodbury safely by foot or bike
By: Stephanie Wang
Environmental Advisory Commission vice -chair
Did you know that Woodbury is unique among sub-
urbs for its trails that fully or nearly encircle lakes
— Markgrafs, Powers, Colby, and Wilmes? Perhaps
you already enjoy a favorite route around a neighbor-
hood lake?
Summertime presents the perfect opportunity for
exploring Woodbury by foot or bike using the more
than 130 miles of paved trails in the city. You can
reference the Woodbury trail maps on the city's web -
site to help plot a new route.
When walking, bicycling or driving, remember to
safely share the trails or roads. By staying alert and
obeying the rules of the road and trail, we can all
reach our destinations safely.
Share the trails
It's important that we all share the trails. Observe
the "Rules of the Trail" and consider what you can do
to minimize conflicts to ensure everyone's enjoyment.
Safety and courtesy both start with being aware
of your surroundings. During quiet hours, you may
be the lone occupant of the trail. But always stay
alert for others trying to pass you on the trail or
vice versa. When on the trail or road, don't let
your headphones prevent you from hearing what
is going on around you such as when traffic is
approaching. As you pass, you may need to slow
as you approach and possibly offer a warning such
as "Passing on your left." Slower users should
move to the right side. Be patient as not all users,
especially children, may know how to share the
trail.
Cross intersections safely
Pedestrians and bicyclists should slow down when
approaching trail intersections or road crossings
and check for oncoming traffic before proceeding.
Ensure that drivers see you and are slowing and
stopping before you enter the crosswalk. Do not
assume that drivers will automatically yield to
pedestrians even when the crosswalk signals are
flashing.
Motorists should yield to bicyclists and pedes-
trians at all crosswalks. Motorists should never
pass or drive around a vehicle that is stopped for
pedestrians.
If you are walking a dog, keep your pet on a leash
at all times. Keep leashes short enough to allow
other trail users to safely pass. Remember, too,
that you must clean up after your pet and dispose
of feces in a sanitary manner.
Share the road
Not all riders are comfortable riding down a non-
residential street. However, riding on the road
continued on back
City seeks nominations for Environmental Excellence Awards
The City of Woodbury is now accepting nomi-
nations for the seventh annual Environmental
Excellence Awards. The awards were developed
in 2008 to recognize businesses, non - profits,
schools, and residents that are making Woodbury
a more sustainable community through innovative
programs and practices that demonstrate environ-
mental leadership.
Applicants may nominate themselves or be nomi-
nated by another individual. The program fea-
tures 10 award categories: green building, green
remodeling, waste reduction and recycling, water
conservation, energy efficiency and conservation,
use of renewable or alternative energy, sustain-
able business practices, environmental education
and awareness, innovative stormwater manage-
ment practices, and youth leadership.
continued on back
Homeowners association honored — Chuck Eckberg (far left), Jeff Heinrich and Cynthia Hable
pose with Mayor Mary Giuliani Stephens (far right) after receiving a 2013 Environmental
Excellence Award for their work as board members on the Eagle Valley Homeowners
Association. The association worked with residents to change association bylaws restricting
solar panels and compost bins. After extensive research and education on the issue, residents
voted with overwhelming support to allow both compost bins and solar panels within the
community.
gremTakesIpeciaGEditiorz•J42014 •e, 2
Things to consider when choosing
a waste and recycling hauler
The City of Woodbury has an open hauling system
for waste and recycling, which means that resi-
dents pick their own hauler from one of the com-
panies licensed in Woodbury.
Haulers may offer different services, features, or
prices compared to their competitors, so residents
are encouraged to learn about their options before
selecting a hauler. There are seven residential
haulers licensed in the city.
When choosing a hauler, consider:
Service
It is important to understand what services will be
provided.
Is there a contract?
Some haulers require residents to sign a contract
for service. If a contract is required, consider
asking:
1 What is the expiration date for the con-
tract'?
1 What are the termination conditions of the
contract? Is there a fee to break the con-
tract early?
1 Can the contract be canceled if the hauler
is not providing reliable service?
Fees
Haulers may offer a discount for switching to
their company.
1 How often is recycling picked up? City ordi-
nance states that garbage must be collected
weekly. Recycling may be collected weekly
or biweekly.
1 What items can be recycled? Some haulers
vary on what they will collect. Ask for a cur-
rent list of recyclables that can be placed in
your bin.
1 If the hauler offers a service for yard waste,
what are the expectations for material prep-
aration?
1 Is the trash taken to a landfill or to the
Resource Recovery Technologies facility in
Newport, where it is burned for energy?
1 If you cancel service, is there a fee for pick-
ing up bins'?
1 Be sure to clarify how long the discount
will apply. If it is a temporary discount,
ask what the total bill will be after the dis-
count expires (including taxes and fees).
1 If you are offered a period of service
without a charge, ask whether the free
month(s) of service will be applied immedi-
ately or at the end of your agreement.
Understanding exactly what is expected from both
parties at the beginning of the agreement should
result in a positive business relationship for both
sides.
The number of haulers may change at any time,
so check the city website at www.ci.woodbury.
mn.us /environment/garbage- and - recycling for the
most current information.
Bike ... from front
may be the best route for some bicyclists to travel.
In Woodbury, bicyclists have the right to ride on
the road just as they may use the trails. Once on
the road, bicyclists must follow the rules of the
road just like motorists. Ride predictably start-
ing with obeying traffic rules. Ride defensively.
Increase your visibility to drivers day and night
especially when low light, glare, or poor weather
conditions may affect the ability of drivers to
notice you.
Motorists must treat bicyclists like they treat other
vehicles. When passing bicycles, drivers must
allow a safe distance of no less than 3 feet.
Get involved
If you'd like to help improve the walking and biking
experience in Woodbury, consider volunteering in
our upcoming pedestrian and bicycle traffic count.
The Environmental Advisory Commission (EAC)
will conduct its second pedestrian and bicycle
traffic count during the week of Sept. 8 -14. A
two -hour count will be conducted on one week-
day and one weekend with the help of Woodbury
volunteers.
Count data helps us quantify pedestrian and biker
traffic patterns and identiA, factors influencing
walking and biking. Conducting the count annu-
ally provides data on whether pedestrian and
bicycle traffic has changed. The number of loca-
tions to be counted will be limited only by the
number of volunteers!
If you are interested in helping with this data col-
lection, email your name and contact information
to sustainabi lity @ci.woodbury.mn.us no later than
Friday, July 18.
More information about city parks and
trails is available on the city's website at
www.cj.woodbury.mn.us.
Awards ... from front
Nominated businesses, organizations, or indi-
viduals must operate or reside within the City of
Woodbury. Similarly, nominated projects must be
located within the city.
Completed nominations are due at City Hall by
Friday, Sept. 19. To access the nomination form,
or for more information about the program, visit
the city's sustainability webpage at: www%wood-
burysustmnability.com and select "Environmental
Excellence Awards." Applications also can
be picked up at the Community Development
Department at Woodbury City Hall, 8301 Valley
Creek Road.
Awards will be presented at a City Council meet-
ing.
In 2013, a dental clinic, a homeowners_ associa-
tion, and two residents received Environmental
Excellence Awards, The recipients and the area of
recognition were:
1 Siverson Dental Clinic - Green Building
(New Construction)
1 The Eagle Valley Homeowners
lssocialion - Chuck Eckberg, Jeff
Heinrich, Cynthia Hable and Eagle Valley
Residents - Use of Renewable or Alternative
Energy
1 Kann Lidell - Waste Reduction and
Recycling
1 Aadarsh Yadiyalh - Youth Leadership
For more information, contact sustainability spe-
cialist Jennifer McLoughlin at (651) 714 -3522.
The Green Times insert is published by the City
of Woodbury and the Woodbury Environmental
Advisory Commission. The commission advises
the City Council regarding matters relevant to sus-
tainability including solid waste, air, water, land,
energy and other natural resources.
The commission meets on the fourth Monday of the
month. For information about meeting times and
agenda, call (651) 714 -3500 during regular busi-
ness hours, or visit the Woodbury website at www.
d woodbury:mn.us.
Environmental Advisory Commission members
are: Roger Splinter, Chair, dim Muehlbauer, Ryan
Newcomer, Ken Scott, Maria Takahashi, and
Stephanie 1lang.
Suggestions and comments regarding this insert
are welcomed. Contact ,Jennifer McLoughlin at
(651) 714 -3522 or send an email to jmcloughlin@
ni.woodbury.mn.us.
Printed on recycled paper with 30 percent post -
consumer waste.