ATHENS, Ohio -- The Ohio Department of Commerce recently presented Ohio University Transportation Services with a Green Buckeye Award in recognition of the time, money and energy it has invested to ensure that its underground storage tanks comply with state environmental regulations.

In recognition of the award, Transportation Services was given Green Buckeye Award decals to display that identify the facility as an environmentally conscious site.

The Green Buckeye Award was developed in 1997 to identify gas stations that are in substantial compliance with environmental laws. These laws require that underground tanks be registered with the Department of Commercešs Bureau of Underground Storage Tank Regulation, employ leak detection methods and pay into the Petroleum Underground Tank Release Compensation Board, which provides financial coverage for corrective action in the event of a spill.

"Itšs nice that our institution was recognized for our role and actions in being environmentally conscious," said Director of Transportation Services Sherry Barnes.

Transportation Services is responsible for the complete servicing and annual inspection of more than 500 university vehicles, which includes major and minor repair to vehicle components, preventative maintenance, light body work and fabrication. The department also provides two motor coaches, one 25-passenger shuttle bus and 36 motor pool vehicles for rental by university faculty, staff, student and other organizations. In addition, Transportation Services administers leasing and long-term rentals to university departments.