California recognizes Cohousing as a more Sustainable Living Environment

The theme of the 2012 National Conference is “Creating Sustainable Neighborhoods; Learning from the Cohousing Experience.” Governor Jerry Brown of California recently endorsed the concept of cohousing as a more sustainable living environment.

The Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Awards are made each year by the Governor of California. This year Jerry Brown was at the awards ceremony to recognize McCamant and Durrett Architects of Wolf Creek Lodge as one of the recipients for 2011. The awards are “given only to individuals, organizations, and businesses who exemplify exceptional leadership for protecting and enhancing the environment while at the same time promoting economic growth”.

Wolf Creek Lodge is a senior cohousing community currently under construction in Grass Valley, CA. From the beginning, way back in 2005, prospective members of the lodge have been enthusiastic about the opportunity to create a life style that will be friendly to the environment. The Lodge will include passive solar heating and cooling, in-floor radiant heating powered by a common boiler, solar hot water and a location that offers immediate walking access to both trails and stores.

Katie MCCamant and Chuck Durrett made the trip to Sacramento with some of the Wolf Creek Lodge members. It was a joyous celebration making a contrast from day to day project management duties: clearing the site, pouring concrete and hoping for a dry fall construction season. Katie took the opportunity to promote the concept of cohousing from the awards ceremony podium. She thanked the members who had supported Wolf Creek Lodge while it came to fruition. “Green initiatives need consumers!” You can see pictures at http://www.wolfcreeklodge.org/geela-award .

Is sustainability a key value in your community? Is your sustainable life style recognized by local “green” organizations?