Effective January 1, 2023, The Dawes Arboretum will be a tobacco-free establishment. The questions and answers provided below are intended to explain the details of The Dawes Arboretum’s tobacco-free policy.
When will the policy take effect?
The policy goes into effect on January 1, 2023.
Why adopt a tobacco-free policy?
The Dawes Arboretum strives to protect our collections and be a place that fosters health/wellness, safety and sustainability, thereby providing a welcoming environment for all employees, members, volunteers and guests.
Does the tobacco-free policy apply to all buildings and grounds?
Yes, the policy applies to all indoor and outdoor areas that are owned, operated or leased by The Dawes Arboretum.
What does Arboretum-owned, operated or leased property include?
This means all Arboretum property to include buildings, structures and facilities; sidewalks and walkways; parking structures and surface lots (including personal/private vehicles parked on surface lots); Arboretum vehicles and pieces of equipment; and outdoor grounds. This also includes all Arboretum property and facilities outside of main grounds (i.e. – Red Barn Reserve, Dutch Fork Wetlands, East side, Gorge Overlook, etc.).
Who does this policy apply to?
This policy applies to all employees, members, volunteers, guests, contractors, and vendors.
Are there designated smoking areas on Arboretum property?
No. There are no designated smoking areas on Arboretum grounds.
What is considered a tobacco product and therefore prohibited by this policy?
Means all tobacco-derived or containing products, including but not limited to cigarettes (clove, bidis, kreteks, etc.); electronic cigarettes; vapes; cigars and cigarillos; hookah smoked products; pipes; oral tobacco (spit and spitless, smokeless, chew, snuff); and nasal tobacco (snus). It also includes any product intended to mimic tobacco products, contain tobacco flavoring or deliver nicotine other than for the purpose of cessation.
Why does the policy include smokeless tobacco?
A tobacco-free policy sends a consistent health message by not implying that smokeless forms of tobacco are safe. There are no safe forms or levels of tobacco use. The policy promotes the health of all individuals, users and non-users alike.
What about e-cigarettes? Can I use these since they aren’t technically tobacco?
E-cigarettes, vapor sticks, hookah sticks and any other form of electronic nicotine delivery system are not permitted.
Can I use tobacco in my personal vehicle while on Arboretum property?
Tobacco use, including smoking in your personal vehicle, is not permitted while on Arboretum property. This includes parking lots and roadways owned, operated or leased by The Dawes Arboretum.
How will the policy be enforced?
Initially, there will be an emphasis on education as members, volunteers, guests, vendors and contractors adapt to the policy. The Dawes Arboretum views a tobacco-free property as a shared responsibility of all. Signage will be posted throughout The Arboretum to help communicate expectations and thank people for their cooperation.