Title
Receive a report on Monterey County Parks climate change and greenhouse gas reduction strategies.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended the Monterey County Parks Commission receive a report on Monterey County Parks climate change and greenhouse gas reduction strategies.
SUMMARY:
At the August 9, 2022, regularly scheduled Monterey County Parks Commission meeting, Commissioner Tibbs requested a report from Staff regarding Monterey County Parks efforts to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
DISCUSSION:
As stewards of the environment, Monterey County Parks, is actively researching and implementing ways to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from within Parks operations as well as with our vendors and visitors.
Park operations currently rely heavily on gas and diesel powered vehicles, heavy equipment, boats and power tools to provide for safe and well-maintained facilities. The County of Monterey also owns the world renowned WeatherTech(r) Raceway at Laguna Seca and rifle and pistol range, both of which present unique challenges in combating pollution and environmental concerns.
In addition, our park visitors generate greenhouse emissions from traveling to and from the parks, while boating, and with campfires and barbeques. Parks is aware of the catch-22 situation we are faced with and are researching and implementing effective strategies to reduce our carbon footprint. While we cannot fully do away with fossil fuels due to current limitations with equipment manufacturers, Parks is looking for ways to offset pollution generation.
Below is a list of key strategies that Parks is currently working on:
- Replacement of two-stroke equipment with cleaner four-stroke equipment such as generators and outboard motors
- Purchase of electric golf carts, UTVs and bikes for use by Rangers and Building and Grounds staff
- Replacement of aged heavy polluters such as dump trucks, bulldozers and other equipment
- Repl...
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