LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- During a time when saving money is a Department of Defense focus, Laughlin Manor is doing their part by reducing energy consumption and wasteful spending in an effort to save the Air Force money.

Laughlin Manor is an Air Education and Training Command award winning lodging facility for families and friends attending graduations, incoming and outgoing personnel and retirees visiting the local area.

"One way the manor has helped reduce facility and utility costs for Laughlin was the recent closure of two temporary lodging facilities," said Ronald Wolshlager, Laughlin Manor lodging manager. "In addition to having sensory heating and air conditioning systems for each visiting quarters room and business suite, the housekeeping staff ensures all room lights and televisions are powered off when they are left on by guests who are not in their rooms."

Another effort made by Air Force lodging is the "Protect our Planet" program, where a sign is displayed in every room encouraging guests to reuse their towels more than once whenever possible.

"This program not only helps to lessen water consumption and energy costs, it also helps to reduce the amount of detergent waste water that must be recycled within our community," said Wolshlager. "In these challenging times, we must do everything we can to cut costs and save Air Force funds."

David Morin, 47th Civil Engineering Squadron, calculated the amount of energy saved by the lightning initiative and the amount of water saved by the "Protect our Planet" program. He said about 19,275 kilowatt hours per year will be saved in energy and 48,800 gallons of water per year will be saved.

The closure of TLF facilities additionally will save up to $20,000 in routine maintenance and utilities a year.

"Initiatives, especially at the facility manager and first line supervisor levels, are essential to meeting Air Force goals because that level is where the most creativity in savings exist," Morin said.

Department of Defense identification card holders may reserve a room at Laughlin Manor by calling (830) 298-5731 or online.