City of Du Quoin
DuQuoin, Illinois, Illinois
Intern: Jeff Rohrich
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
The city of Du Quoin is located in Southern Illinois, approximately 25 miles
north of Carbondale. The city has a population of 6,600 and is the largest
community in Perry County.
The goal of the internship was to evaluate the feasibility of a compost operation
that would serve the city, the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds and the nearby corrections
center. Energy audits were also conducted at several local businesses and municipal
buildings.
Results:
Approximately 70 tons of horse manure is generated at the state fairgrounds
every week. The manure is hauled off-site for disposal. The intern researched
strategies for composting the manure from the fairgrounds along with grass
clippings, leaves and mulch from the fairgrounds and city. The motivation crew
at the boot camp would be responsible for turning the pile to keep the windrow
at the proper temperature and adding water to maintain the proper moisture
content. The intern determined that there is not sufficient state or federal
grant money available to help fund the project at the present time.
The intern recommended that lighting be upgraded (T12 to T8 bulbs with electronic
ballasts) at the following locations:
- Alongi’s Restaurant: Lighting upgrades would save the business
over $800 a year.
- Amtrak Station: Lighting upgrades would save the city over $260
a year. It was also recommended that the facility tint the windows,
add insulation in the attic and de-lamp both of the vending machines at
the station.
- Main Street T’s: Lighting upgrades would save over $1,900
a year.
- Fire Station: Lighting upgrades would save over $900 a year. Using
photoelectric eyes to shut outside lights during the day would save over
$550 annually.
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