Management of Dead Animals, Birds, Fish, for Art Purposes Policy

Custodian of Policy: VP Finance & Administration

Effective Date: Current

Last Review: Spring 2022

Next Review: Spring 2029

Policy

Any student, staff, or faculty wanting to bring an animal/birds/fish on MSUM property for artistic purposes must first obtain written permission from their department chairperson.

Procedures

The requesting person must have an established timeline of how long it will be used) and a valid reason for use.

The use of dead animals/birds/ fish in art projects is rare. However, if improperly handled could be considered a potential health hazard. Therefore, it is recommended the Department of Environmental Health and Safety be contacted to discuss proper handling and disposal procedures to each specific case. Consideration and discussion will take place regarding:

• Prolonging the decomposition process
• Handling of un-preserved bones
• Restricted areas for storage and/or work
• Project labeling
• Proper use of personal protective equipment
• Disposal techniques

Under no circumstances will any dead animal/bird/fish be displayed on the MSUM campus unless properly preserved. Proper preservation consists of taxidermy, formaldehyde solutions, etc.