2001 Newsroom Archive

Department of Parks and Recreation Energy Conservation Effort

Sacramento, California, February 2, 2001 - The City Council and City Manager's Office has asked all departments throughout the City of Sacramento to conserve energy during the energy crisis. The California Independent System Operator (Cal ISO) has announced that Stage Three Electricity Emergency will likely result in rolling blackouts throughout the state until the crisis has ended which, according to local and state officials, could last through the summer of 2001 and beyond. These rolling blackouts would be approximately one to two hours in duration, but could be prolonged in the event of excessive energy consumption.

The Department of Parks and Recreation is doing everything it can to conserve energy both in the work area and at home. All department offices, community centers and maintenance facilities are reducing their electricity consumption by limiting or reducing lighting, turning off lights when leaving a work area, turning off equipment and computer terminals when not being used. Employees are being asked to conserve energy consumption at home, too, as part of the City's overall effort to help during the energy crisis.

The department's computer system allows outdoor sporting facilities and fields lights to be activated and terminated based on reservations made by organizations using these outdoor facilities and fields. Lights are turned on an off automatically, thereby maximizing energy conservation. Lights remain on after an event to allow players and spectators enough time to safely get to their vehicles, especially after sunset. Also, lights at outdoor events may remain activated if the event concludes early, but this is usually sporadic and infrequent.

The Department of Parks and Recreation welcomes residents or citizens to notify the department should they observe empty out door sporting facilities or fields with its lights on by calling (916) 264-6060.