2009 Responsible Development Awards

Residential: The Milder House

Off the grid in the great southwest

Photos by Kirk Gittings

Green Details:
•    The photovoltaic panel array, programmed to track the sun's motion, is situated a short stroll from the house. Marine-grade batteries in a utility room in one of the buildings store the energy.

•    Covering the swimming pool except when it's being used minimizes evaporation: 90 to 95 percent less water is lost than if it were left uncovered.

•    Landscaping with native plants and other xeric (low-water desert) species in the home's courtyard help keep water demands low in the arid region. Captured rainwater and recycled gray water irrigate all plants through a drip system.

Development: Marabou Ranch

Sustainable living in Colorado's Rockies

Photos by Larry Pierce

Green Details:
•    Hiking, horseback and mountain bike trails were developed or restored to help bring Marabou's residents in closer contact with their natural surroundings.

•    Green agricultural ranching operations include the rotational grazing of cattle, which yields leaner, healthier, hormone-free grass-fed beef; and the creation of protected habitats for the abundant wildlife that also lives at Marabou, including elk and Columbian sharp tail grouse.

•    Public events including nature-education programs for area children and fundraisers for local charities forge strong bonds between Marabou and its surrounding community.

Tourism: The Lodge at Sun Ranch

 Eco-ranching meets eco-tourism in Montana

Photos by Cameron R. Neilson

Green Details:
•    Two old homesteader houses from a nearby property were moved to Sun Ranch and remodeled to become luxurious guest cabins alongside the main lodge building.

•    Even the most basic guest amenities follow ecologically sound practices, including biodegradable toiletries in pump dispensers, biodegradable picnic packaging, recycled paper products, and organic free-trade linens.

•    Resort revenues generated by the lodge help support its commercial sustainable ranching operations and continue restoration efforts on the property, 95 percent of which will be covered by a conservation easement.

For the full story, pick up the February 2009 issue of Mountain Living