STOWE, VERMONT—Spruce Peak announced it has achieved its 14th consecutive year as an Audubon International Sustainable Community. This prestigious recognition underscores Spruce Peak’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainability, and the enhancement of the natural beauty that defines the region.
Spruce Peak’s long history with the Audubon International Sustainable Communities Program began in 2010 when it became the first Ski Resort community in the country to earn this distinguished environmental achievement. Since then, the community has continued to uphold and exceed the standards set by this certification. Additionally, the dedication to sustainability is evident through the involvement in other Audubon International certificate programs. Spruce Peak has been recognized as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary for Golf and as a Green Lodging Member with The Lodge at Spruce Peak, collectively holding three prestigious Audubon International certificates.
“Spruce Peaks Sustainable efforts are apparent and evident throughout every aspect of the community from staff, guests, the buildings, and natural areas on property as well as demonstrating a positive impact to the surrounding areas.”—Jill Moore, Sustainable Communities Audubon International
“More than ever, it is critical that we put sustainability at the center of everything that we do here at Spruce Peak. To that end, Spruce Peak is thrilled to continue our partnership with Audubon International, an organization which shares our values of stewardship and sustainability. Over the past 14 years, Audubon International has helped provide the Spruce Peak community with a template to model our sustainable practices and standards. Our community looks forward to continuing our work with Audubon so that we can improve our industry-leading practices throughout our golf courses, lodges, village and real estate development.”—Sam Gaines, President of Spruce Peak Realty
Spruce Peak’s Commitment to Sustainability
- At Spruce Peak, dedication to sustainability is deeply embedded in its community’s values and practices. Spruce Peak is committed to developing sustainable buildings and landscapes that harmonize with the environment.
Key Sustainability Initiatives
- The Mountain Course—Since 2006, The Mountain Course has been recognized as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining ecological balance while offering a premier golfing experience.
- The Village Center—The Spruce Peak Village Center is heated and cooled by the largest geothermal field in northern Vermont with over 100 wells. This advanced system significantly reduces reliance on fossil fuels.
- Stormwater Management—The innovative approach to stormwater management includes heated sidewalks throughout the Village, which eliminates snow and ice without the use of salt or gravel, protecting local water systems and reducing the community’s environmental impact.
- The Treehouse at Spruce Peak—This all-electric building is the first of its kind in Vermont, showcasing the existing commitment to cutting-edge sustainable design and energy efficiency.
- Village Landscape—Surrounded by 2,000 acres of preserved Vermont land, the Village landscape integrates seamlessly with the natural environment, ensuring that development enhances the surrounding ecosystem. Protected wildlife habitat corridors preserve precious routes for deer, moose, bear, as well as several rare bird species.
Spruce Peak’s Ongoing Commitment
Spruce Peak’s commitment to sustainability is a dynamic and evolving journey. The community is dedicated to integrating and maintaining eco-friendly practices across all facets of its presence. Spruce Peak continues to focus on responsible maintenance practices, golf course upkeep, recycling and waste management, energy use and efficiency, water management, community engagement and education.
Looking ahead, Spruce Peak’s 2030 plan outlines ambitious goals to further enhance sustainability efforts. This strategic plan includes targets for reducing consumption of fuels across the community. Building on the current achievement of a 42 percent diversion from landfills and promoting the use of mass transportation for employees and guests. There are plans to expand educational efforts to include associates, owners and guests ensuring that everyone is informed about the local environment and efforts to preserve it. Spruce Peak’s ongoing commitment reflects their dedication to creating a thriving, sustainable community for current and future generations, while continually striving to improve environmental practices and impact.
For more information on Spruce Peak, visit www.sprucepeak.com.
