PSP Overview: What is a Public Service Project?

	Institute of Environmental Sciences

WHAT IS A PUBLIC SERVICE PROJECT?

A public service project is a year-long community service and educational program of the Institute of Environmental Sciences. The Institute, since its inception in 1971, has performed these projects for local and state government agencies, non-profit groups, trade associations, and other institutions.

Public service projects have usually been difficult problems that require substantial effort. Often the organization or agency does not have adequate funds to perform the project with its own staff or with the services of a consulting firm. In several instances, public service projects have laid the groundwork for a larger study performed by consulting firms. Projects usually have the following characteristics:

A significant environmental problem needs to be addressed
The client does not have the financial or human resources to conduct the project
The client supplies a contact and/or resource person with whom a team can work
Expenses for materials and certain other services are paid by the client, where possible
The Institute considers the project to have adequate educational scope and to be within the abilities of a team to address in two semesters of work.

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