Missouri State University has adopted a water conservation plan in response to drought conditions.

Several steps have already been implemented, including shutting down the campus’ three fountains, reducing irrigation, eliminating vehicle washing, prioritizing repair of plumbing leaks and reducing run time of water-dependent food service equipment. These initial changes are expected to decrease the university’s water usage by 1,000,000 gallons per month – over 5 percent of the normal consumption.

“Missouri State University is attempting to demonstrate civic responsibility by taking action to assist the community regarding the current water crisis threatening the Springfield area,” said Bob Eckels, director of facilities management at Missouri State. “When City Utilities made us aware of the low lake levels and the forecast of continued drought conditions, we took immediate measures to reduce consumption of non-essential water use.”

The university’s plan also includes further steps that will be taken if lakes have drawn down to 60 percent or less of total usage capacity.

“Should conditions demand, we are prepared to implement more dramatic measures as necessary to carry our share of the water conservation burden,” said Eckels.

A copy of Missouri State University’s water conservation plan is available online at http://www.missouristate.edu/facilities/141319.htm.

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About Missouri State University
Missouri State University is a public, comprehensive university system with a mission in public affairs, whose purpose is to develop educated persons while guided by three overarching and enduring commitments to student learning, inclusive excellence and institutional impact. The university’s identity is distinguished by its statewide mission in public affairs, which entails a campus-wide commitment to foster competence and responsibility in ethical leadership, cultural competence and community engagement.