Take Action
Dear University Senators,
As you may be aware, there has been considerable controversy in the past several months over plans to develop a 22 acre forest on campus known as the "Wooded Hillock." 9 acres (41%) on the eastern side would be cleared to make room for facilities that will be displaced by the East Campus redevelopment project.
Unfortunately, the decision to develop such an ecologically sensitive site was made without adequate input from those parties who will be most affected by the loss of this contiguous forest. In addition to demonstrating unusually rich biodiversity in a relatively urbanized region, the Wooded Hillock is used for research and education by dozens of faculty members and thousands of students. And, it is one of the few refuges of tranquility left on an otherwise highly developed campus. Clearing 9 acres to build parking lots and other maintenance facilities would seriously compromise the ecological integrity and therefore educational value of the Hillock.
The decision criteria used to select the site, and the weights attached to them, do not reflect our university's commitment to research, education, and sustainable practices. However, it is not too late to reverse this decision.
On Thursday, December 10th, 2009, the Senate will meet to vote on a resolution calling for the total preservation of the Hillock. Although the Senate does not have the final say in development projects, it is my understanding that Dr. Mote does not often act against the Senate's recommendations. Therefore, I implore you, as fellow researchers and members of the University community, to support this resolution by voting in favor of the recommendation to preserve the Wooded Hillock in its entirety. I look forward to seeing you there.
For more information, please browse the other sections of our website.
Sincerely,
Alexander Weissman
GRA, Department of Mechanical Engineering