(RIO VERDE, Ariz.) – Rio Verde Community – the award-winning resort style residential development northeast of Scottsdale – was designated a Certified Sustainable Community by the Audubon International Sustainable Communities program after completing the organization’s requirements and meeting its strict criteria.
The designation, which was awarded April 15, makes Rio Verde the first Certified Sustainable Community west of the Mississippi River and fifth overall in the U.S. Boasting 735 acres of desert wildflowers, cacti and abundant wildlife that accent its residential areas and amenities, Rio Verde achieved certification by developing and implementing management practices and policies according to a community-driven Long Term Sustainability Plan (LTSP).
The LTSP included timelines and measurable goals addressing 15 focus areas, including wildlife conservation and habitat enhancement, water conservation, energy efficiency, health and transportation. Receiving designation as an Audubon International Certified Sustainable Community is contingent upon the quality and completeness of the LTSP and its implementation.
Among the implemented accomplishments at Rio Verde:
• Solar panels installed on the community center serve 25 percent of the building’s average energy demand, resulting in more than 250,000 kWh (and over $28,000) saved annually.
• Fifteen acres of turf on the golf courses were naturalized to desert landscaping, reducing water and maintenance requirements.
• More than 3 tons of citrus from residents’ trees annually donated to local food banks.
• The creation of a native plant landscaping palette for the Country Club and Community.
• An annual educational event held on practices and products for living green, which drew more than 100 residents.
“Rio Verde Community residents have worked enthusiastically to shape our community within the guidelines established by Audubon International,” notes Gary Holcomb, President of the Community Association. “Our focus on preservation, conservation and sustainability will certainly benefit our current residents as well as those who will follow in their footsteps. We look forward to a long-term partnership with Audubon International.”
Tabbed “the No. 1 “Private Golf Course” and “Active Adult Community” by Ranking Arizona: the Best of Arizona Business, Rio Verde joins Eufaula, Ala,. Williamston, N.C., Coconut Creek, Fla., and Stowe Mountain Resort, Vt. as Audubon International Certified Sustainable Communities.
For more information about Rio Verde, visit www.rioverdearizona.com, or call 877.746.8373.
About Rio Verde Community and Country Club
Rio Verde is located in northeastern Maricopa County in the foothills of the McDowell Mountains at the edge of the Tonto National Forest. The award-winning, resort community features 36 holes of parkland-style golf, a par-3 course and world-class practice facilities, tennis, pickleball, hiking / walking trails, fitness center, Saddle Club and other amenities.
Comprising 980 custom-built homes, town-homes, and villas ranging from less than $200,000 to over $1 million, Rio Verde is a low-density, master-planned community with large lots highlighted by golf course, mountain, or desert views. Its low taxes, competitive real estate prices, and tranquil location appeal to primary and vacation home owners. Rio Verde is just 25 minutes from the world-famous Mayo Clinic (Scottsdale campus) and 35 minutes from Scottsdale Healthcare at Shea Medical Center.
The 27,000-square foot contemporary, southwestern-style clubhouse is the center of Rio Verde social life, offering a wide variety of dining options and activities. Hearth-fired, homemade pizza and other casual fare is available at the Verde Pub, while fine dining in the Copper Room offers members access to professional chefs and world-class service.
About Audubon International
Audubon International is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) environmental education organization dedicated to providing people with the education and assistance they need to practice responsible management of land, water, wildlife and other natural resources. To meet this mission, the organization provides training, services, and a set of award-winning environmental education and certification programs for individuals, organizations, properties, new developments and entire communities.
Through the Sustainable Communities and Green Neighborhoods Programs, Audubon International works to help community leaders and stakeholders embrace environmental stewardship and sustainability as a central element of planning, policies, and practices. For more information, contact Audubon International at 518-767-9051 or visit the website at www.auduboninternational.org.
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