The Combined Support Maintenance Shop at Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa has recently taken initiatives above and beyond that of most National Guard bases in practicing pollution prevention and waste reduction at their facility. As a result of their efforts, Camp Dodge has received the 2005 Governor’s Iowa Environmental Excellence Award, recognizing their leadership and innovation in helping to manage our state’s natural resources.
The Iowa National Guard Combined Support Maintenance Shop (CSMS) located at Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa supports 102 Army National Guard units by providing major equipment repair and maintenance functions including engine overhauls, instrument repairs, fabrication, painting, etc. The CSMS at Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa has recently taken great strides in practicing pollution prevention and waste reduction in its everyday operations. These initiatives go above and beyond that of most National Guard bases to ensure sound environmental techniques are used and the resulting benefits are realized.
With the help of the Spray Technique Analysis and Research for Defense (STAR4D®) program at the Iowa Waste Reduction Center (IWRC), CSMS has introduced new spray painting technologies, equipment and techniques at its Camp Dodge facility. These innovative changes have led to reduced material consumption/waste generation/air emissions, improved product quality and higher production rates.
As a result of the innovative efforts put forth by CSMS, many environmental and economic results have been realized and will be maintained indefinitely. Increased efficiency, decreased material usage and reduced waste generation have all contributed to considerable cost savings at the facility. The environmental initiatives have led to a waste reduction of nearly 33,000 pounds per year and an overall cost savings of almost $130,000 annually. The overall result is a cleaner, safer, more efficient facility, serving as a model for other military bases.
The Environmental Excellence Award is the premier environmental honor in Iowa. It is designed to recognize Iowa organizations, businesses and individuals that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the protection and enhancement of our natural resources. Recipients for this award are selected based upon leadership and innovative practices that have been implemented to sustain environmental results, leading to significant pollution prevention and economic savings. Participation and benefits realized by employees and the community surrounding the organization, as well as the ability for environmental techniques to be transferred to other organizations are also considered in selecting award recipients.
The Environmental Excellence Awards are coordinated by the Governor’s Office, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, the Iowa Department of Economic Development, the Iowa Department of Education and UNI’sIowa Waste Reduction Center.