In the spring 2006 semester, residents on the second, third and fourth floors of Wallach Hall will have to choose whether to flush up – or down.

A novel decision, perhaps -- one that’s part of the University’s efforts at water conservation, starting in the bathroom.

A pilot program to test new water-saving fixtures has been launched, “demonstrating our commitment to helping conserve the world’s most precious resource,” said David Carlson, Director of Facilities. The new flushing apparatus has a Dual-Flush feature that can save up to a half-gallon of water per flush. You can tilt the handle UP for a reduced flush, when you are flushing only liquid and light paper waste. Or, you can tilt the handle DOWN for a full flush, when there’s solid waste.

Signs in the bathrooms will show the proper way to use the flush handles. The new handles are green, and are coated with antimicrobial coating to protect against germs.