We, the University of Rio Grande Valley community, take pride in our agricultural roots, strong sense of community, and our region's unique biodiversity. We are grateful for the tremendous strides that UTRGV has made towards sustainability. That is why we were disappointed to learn that UTRGV uses synthetic pesticides in our landscaping, some of which are known or probable carcinogens. To improve the health and safety of UTRGV students, faculty, staff and our larger community, we are calling for an end to the use of pesticides on our campuses. The spraying of these toxic chemicals, primarily for aesthetic purposes, unnecessarily exposes UTRGV students, faculty, staff, and especially groundkeepers, who are most exposed, to substances linked to cancer, reproductive and developmental harm, endocrine disruption, kidney damage, and more. These chemicals are also harmful to wildlife, plants, pollinators, and natural ecosystems. Making our campuses hostile to wildlife neglects our responsibility of stewardship.

We the members of Re:wild UTRGV are calling on you, President Bailey, to prioritize the health and wellbeing of the UTRGV community: commit to organic management of campus grounds and play a role in the restoration of our native habitat.