Spring break survey released

A survey released Thursday, March 7, suggests that tactics by some tour companies and segments of the alcohol industry may contribute to excessive drinking among university students on spring break, and that steps should be taken to stop these irresponsible marketing practices.

The University of Wisconsin–Madison has taken many steps to combat the emphasis on alcohol consumption. For example, skipping traditional spring break destinations this March 23-31, about 90 UW–Madison students will participate in community-oriented Alternative Breaks at nine sites across the country. Coordinated through the Morgridge Center for Public Service, the trips cost between $150-$225.

The findings are from a national survey by A Matter of Degree: The National Effort to Reduce High-Risk Drinking Among College Students, a program of the American Medical Association funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. UW–Madison is a participating site in the RWJ Project.

A national teleconference on study findings and spring break issues was held March 7 featuring Dr. Richard Yoast, AMA chairman-elect Dr. J. Edward Hill and Mayor Jim Naugle of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

For more information about Alternative Breaks, contact director Rob Staude, (608) 262-7896, rlstaude@hotmail.com.