Indiana
Students, faculty feel 'walled off' from Indiana University climate plan, sustainability projects
Indiana University said it’s reorganizing its sustainability offices to better implement the university’s climate action plan. But some students and faculty at IU Bloomington said they’ve been cut out of the process to make the university a cleaner, greener place.
How IU chooses to move forward could determine whether students, faculty and staff have a role in helping the university reach its climate goals.
Hands-on learning opportunities on campus take a hit
Sophomore Will Gardiner grew up playing in a nearby creek in Fort Wayne. Now he’s studying environmental science at IU Bloomington. He points out a sinking stream in Dunn Meadow on campus.
“It’s almost as if all the water goes right underneath and then right where that bridge is where the other side of the stream is. A little bit further up it shows right back up, it comes right out,” Gardiner said.
Gardiner said getting more hands-on experience would help him find a job and narrow down what he wants to do. But there aren’t enough good internships to go around for the more than 2,000 students in the IU Bloomington O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs.
Since Gardiner is spending at least two summers working or taking classes — the pressure is on for the summer before his senior year.
“I pretty much have one real opportunity to get a good, solid internship in before I’m out of school. So you want to make it count,” he said.
Students used to get more of that hands-on experience right on campus. Professor Kelly Eskew is the director of education for the Kelley Institute for Environmental and Social Sustainability in IU’s business school.
She was also president of a now defunct advisory board which used to tackle sustainability projects on campus through seven working groups — only two of which are now active. Eskew herself chaired one where a company trained students to do waste audits.
“The goal was that we would repeat that work year over year, using students to take a look at what our trash looks like here at Indiana University. And that has completely fallen away. It’s really a terrible waste of a wonderful — no pun intended — but it’s a missed opportunity,” she said.
Students and faculty ‘walled off from the process’
Losing the board means faculty also lost a way to share their expertise as IU tackles possibly the most ambitious sustainability project ever — its climate action plan. Though the university held at least one public forum at each campus, the planning committee meetings weren’t open to the public. And at least for now, implementation committee meetings aren’t either.
“I think it’s kind of a tragic loss,” said Michael Hamburger, professor of earth and atmospheric sciences at IU.
“There is so much expertise and so much energy and enthusiasm about engaging with these issues. And more and more of many faculty and students feel walled off from this process, with many of the operations being handled in in secrecy and kind of behind closed doors,” he said.
That includes the new chief sustainability officer position — which oversees the climate plan for all of IU’s campuses.
Hamburger said faculty wanted an independent role hired through a national search — able to hold the campus accountable to its climate commitments and maybe more ambitious ones. Instead it reports to Capital Planning and Facilities and was posted internally. IU refused to explain why.
Reorganization makes the future of IU’s sustainability offices uncertain
While some faculty worry about all of these changes, Jessica Davis, the new chief sustainability officer, said she’s excited to get to work.
“We got a lot to do but it’s all very good, very exciting and really personally rewarding to be able to work on and serve the institution this way,” Davis said.
The climate plan implementation committee on IU Bloomington’s campus held its first meeting in January.
Davis admits her team has been more insular lately — that’s because the university was busy reorganizing all of its sustainability offices under the climate action plan.
“And ultimately it’s our job to implement and manage the climate action plan, as well as try to standardize the sustainability experience across IU to the best of our ability. So because that triggered a significant reorganization for us, now the provost’s office is working on what a new model might look like,” she said.
While things may be in flux right now, Davis said the implementation committee is working on a list of projects that students and faculty can get involved with. She said anyone on campus can always talk to their representative on the committee or request an audience with the committee.
Expert: IU isn’t an anomaly, but shouldn’t ignore opportunities for students
Like it or not — the way IU has organized its sustainability initiatives is not unusual, said Bridget Flynn. She works for Second Nature, a company that helps universities track their greenhouse gas emissions and find climate solutions.
They said having the chief sustainability officer position tied to facilities is very common — though today more of those roles are getting pushed up the hierarchy.
“More of those positions are reporting directly to the president or to a VP or like a CFO. Or a creation of a cabinet level position,” Flynn said.
Join the conversation and sign up for the Indiana Two-Way. Text “Indiana” to 765-275-1120. Your comments and questions in response to our weekly text help us find the answers you need on climate solutions and climate change at ipbs.org/climatequestions.
Flynn said no matter how they choose to reach their climate goals, universities should try to involve students as much as possible. Even if IU decides to, say, hire a contractor to make their buildings more energy efficient, students could write requests for proposals or evaluate bids.
Flynn said change will take time — there are a lot of stakeholders involved and that involvement is important.
“In order to have people feel like they were really part of the process and see themselves in the plan and implementation. And that it really represents the desires of the campus,” she said.
Rebecca is our energy and environment reporter. Contact her at rthiele@iu.edu or follow her on Twitter at @beckythiele.
There’s a small-town state park in Indiana with rugged sandstone ravines, deep canyons, ladders, steps, and tranquil scenes of Sugar Creek. Sounds like Turkey Run State Park in Marshall, doesn’t it? Well, it’s not. Less than 10 miles away, there is another park often overlooked by the one million visitors who come to west-central Indiana. Shades State Park in Waveland is a quieter and more remote version of the popular Turkey Run, so much so that it feels like a local secret.
But this low-key state park has a few hidden secrets that you can’t find anywhere else in the state. Find out what makes this one of the best state parks in Indiana to visit.
Why This Small-Town State Park Stands Out in Indiana
At over 3,000 acres, surprisingly, Shades is actually larger than Turkey Run, yet it’s often called the “less popular little brother.” And although they may have the same features, Shades State Park stands out in more than one way. For instance, this remote park offers rugged trails with dramatic views without the crowds. So, if you want to spend time without feeling rushed, this is the place for you.
Moreover, because it’s located in the rural town of Waveland, the park boasts some of the darkest skies in Indiana and hosts events throughout the year. Stargazers rejoice! You can spend dreamy nights here, looking up into the heavens, letting your imagination take you through the cosmos.
Additionally, there are unique geological formations, secluded canoe-only campsites, and incredible overlooks that make this park even that more special. And as the light filters into the less-traveled paths with canyon walls covered in moss, it looks otherworldly. In my opinion, and I am sure many Hoosiers will agree, Shades is arguably one of the most underrated hidden gems in Indiana.
What You’ll Experience at Shades State Park
Shades is known for its more rustic and less developed landscapes. Its rugged terrain makes it a fun playground to explore. Here, you’ll have access to Devil’s Backbone, a steep hike along a jagged ridge with vertical drops, with unique geological features, and it’s not for the faint of heart. It’s found on the three-mile Pine Hills Nature Preserve Trail. This is the kind of trek that you would do when you need a challenge.
The 6 Ravine Challenge trail is an adventure on its own, and one of the best hikes in Indiana. The name says it all; you’ll be hiking through six ravines on this trek. Along with the rugged and rocky terrain, come ready to climb ladders and steps to enter the narrow, carved-out canyon walls. It’s part of the fun on this hike, though, and standing inside these crevices carved out millions of years ago will leave you in awe.
Thanks to Sugar Creek, keep an eye out for the waterfalls in the area; some just slowly trickling over the rocks, but still worth the attention. And speaking of Sugar Creek, it’s another reason to visit the park. Shades has secluded campsites along the scenic water that are accessible only by canoe or kayak. Not only can you spend the night, but you can also paddle all the way to Turkey Run State Park on the creek.
Shades State Park might be the overlooked brother to Turkey Run, but this underrated state park in Indiana surely knows how to shine, in a quieter, more intimate way. That’s why locals love it so much, and you will, too.
Local Tips for Visiting
Even in peak season from April through October, Shades will be far less crowded than its “popular brother.” That said, spring is a great time to visit to see the wildflowers and flowing waters, and summer is the prime season for camping and canoeing. Of course, fall is when the park lights up with autumn colors, attracting leaf peepers galore. And the frosty season is when the park settles in. Avoid the crowds by visiting in winter, early morning, or on weekdays.
Come prepared to hike in less-developed, rugged terrain, with downed trees. Meaning, there will be rock scrambling, climbing, and you’ll find muddy and slippery sections, too. Your sneakers might not hold up here, so leave them behind. With all that there is to do and see inside Shades State Park, you’ll need more than just a day here. This means camping is the way to go! If you’re camping, be sure to bring your stargazing equipment to take advantage of the dark skies here.
The Shades campground is pretty simple with basic amenities and no electric or sewer hookups. There are just over 100 sites, 7 backcountry sites, and 10 water-access sites, perfect for those paddling on Sugar Creek.
What to Know Before You Go
Keep in mind that Shades State Park charges an entrance fee per vehicle, which varies based on residency. Bikers and hikers pay a small fee as well. If you plan on stargazing after 11 p.m, you’ll need to get a permit from the office. Visit the Shades State Park Clear Sky Chart to plan your visit.
If you come during the winter, the park has limited facilities, and some areas will have no water. So, unless you want to really rough it in the wilderness, I would skip camping here from November through April. The good news is, you might have the campsite to yourself. Before you visit, check the Shades State Park website for closures and updates.
It’s easy to see why Hoosiers like to keep this laid-back park their little secret. This is where they can come and fully immerse themselves in a peaceful, serene park with incredible views and natural wonders.
Plus, the nearby town of Waveland is a wonderful small town in Indiana to visit. Enjoy scenic rural drives to wide-open fields and nearby covered bridges. This is where slow travelers come to trade the crowds for peace.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell says Bears need stadium site soon
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell told reporters at the NFL’s annual meeting that the Chicago Bears need resolution on a stadium site soon.
The saga of the Chicago Bears and their potential move to Indiana continues as Illinois lawmakers unveil amended legislation aimed at keeping the team in the state, Illinois Capital News reported.
Seemingly still a minor step in the right direction, the legislation is a prerequisite for the team to build a new domed stadium in suburban Arlington Heights. Here’s what happened in Illinois this week.
What does the amended bill mean for the Chicago Bears?
The Illinois House unveiled a new version of property tax legislation aimed at winning over lawmakers concerned about the move.
More specifically, the changes target worries about shifted property tax burdens to local residents and the team’s departure from Chicago’s Soldier Field, which still has nearly $500 in unpaid bonds.
While the original bill would allow the Bears or other “megaproject” developers to negotiate a payment in lieu of taxes, the amended version would contribute 50% of such payments to property tax relief. Of that amount, 60% would go to property tax rebates for homeowners residing in megaproject districts, while 40% would be deposited into the state’s existing property tax relief fund.
This incentive plan would end in five years, at which time lawmakers would revisit its effectiveness.
Will amended legislation pass in Illinois?
The legislation was discussed at length in the Illinois House Tuesday, but still has a far way to go before it makes its way to Gov. JB Pritzker’s desk.
Illinois Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, the lead House negotiator on the megaprojects bill, said he plans to file the amended legislation with the intention of it being heard in committee on Wednesday. If it passes there, the full House could vote on the measure this week.
But importantly, it still must be approved by the Illinois Senate, which returns to Springfield on April 28. Only then would it be sent to Pritzker.
Is the measure likely to pass in Illinois?
Buckner appeared optimistic about the changes, while Pritzker’s office said they’re still “reviewing the draft amendment.”
Illinois Rep. Will Guzzardi, D-Chicago, said the latest version is a step in the right direction, saying the “forthcoming amendment” addressed lawmakers’ concerns “in a really thoughtful way.”
What’s going on in Indiana?
Indiana Gov. Mike Braun signed a bill into law in February creating a northwest Indiana stadium authority that would be in charge of financing a new stadium for the Bears in Hammond.
As recently as April 16, Indiana lawmakers renegotiated the Indiana Toll Road lease to further appeal to the Chicago football team, according to the IndyStar. The new agreement would allow $700 million to be put toward infrastructure or transportation projects in seven Indiana counties near the proposed stadium site in exchange for more frequently increased toll prices on the Indiana Toll Road.
CONTRIBUTING: Kayla Dwyer, Indianapolis Star; Brenden Moore, Illinois Capital News
PLAINFIELD, Ind. (WISH) — Suspects fled a Plainfield bank after it was robbed Tuesday afternoon, police say.
Plainfield Police Department was called at 2:10 p.m. Tuesday to the robbery of a bank in progress at Chase Bank, 807 Southfield Drive. That’s southwest of the intersection of Quaker Boulevard and Stafford Road/East County Road 450 South in the Hendricks County town.
Deputy Chief Ryan Salisbury of the Plainfield Police Department said detectives were working on the case.
The police department posted on social media on Tuesday night that no one was hurt in the robbery, and the suspects, who were not in custody, fled prior to the arrival of first responders.
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