Passive Ways to Keep Cool in the Summer
If you are planting, landscaping, or gardening this spring, why not add some plants to keep you cool? Natural vegetation and shading devices block solar gain and exterior shading is generally more effective than interior shades (plant trees on the southern side to shade your home). Deciduous trees on the west and east side of the house that do not cast trunk or branch shadows during the winter months are recommended.

Non-live shading can also be incorporated, but needs to be colored appropriately: light for diffuse daylight and dark for maximum heat gain reduction. Movable shading is more expensive, but more efficient than fixed.  Interior shading is best for glare relief and should be light-colored and adjustable (Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), 2004). 

To ensure solar gain throughout the cold winter months while providing shading in summer, shade south-facing glass horizontally. Use this horizontal shading tool to learn more about what is right for your home or business.

Builders partnering with developers who plan an entire community or subdivision can position homes to take advantage of southern exposures.  They can increase solar gain, prevent solar interferences, and provide appropriate shading.

Justin Wilson of Building Performance Systems
Please join Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation International and The New Community Coalition for a comprehensive and engaging building science and green building training session with Justin Wilson of Building Performance Solutions, a nationally renowned green and building science speaker and trainer.
Also included: special presentations from local building departments will bring you up to date on the latest energy and green building codes.  Green Building Expo with booth displays of green building products.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 9TH, 2010
- Classroom 8:30 am - 4:30 pm - Evening Reception and Product Expo 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm (drinks and appetizers served)

Click here for more information

The GEO anticipates releasing the following grants in June of 2010.

Woody Biomass Feasibility Analysis Grant - Mid June
Funding for the purchase of equipment and the completion of feasibility studies, permitting processes, technology reviews and economic analysis for woody biomass projects.

Solar For Nonprofits Grant - Pending availability of funds after 1st round in March
Funding for solar domestic hot water and solar electric projects for nonprofit entities that provide services to a population with 60% of residents at or below the Colorado Median Income Level.

Anaerobic Digestion Grant - Mid June
Funding for the purchase of equipment and the completion of feasibility studies, permitting processes, technology reviews and economic analysis for anaerobic digestion (AD) projects.

High Performance Building Program - Ongoing
The GEO is currently seeking eligible partner projects for the High Performance Building Program.

Cara Arpino was born and raised in New Hampshire. She initially majored in biology at Fort Lewis College but she knew she found her calling when the Environmental Studies program was introduced. Upon completion of her internship at 4CORE, Cara will receive her bachelor's degree in Environmental Policy. After four years in Durango, she has fallen in love with the mountains and claims she will never move back to the east coast. Cara enjoys snowboarding, mountain biking, hiking, traveling, reading, dancing, and floating down the river with a good group of friends.

Beverly McAllister has lived in Durango for the last 30 years. Before coming to 4CORE, she worked with the Mercy Medical Center's Gift Shop trying out her innovative ideas on customers. She enjoys going to punk rock concerts and taking time off to go on fishing vacations. Beverly has become an integral part of the 4CORE team by taking on multiple duties and tasks that are requested of her.