As part of our commitment to protecting natural resources, the Board of Directors committed to constructing a “green” office building. With our new venture, we hope to not only demonstrate the ease and long-term cost-effectiveness of using recycled products and renewable energy alternatives in building projects; but to encourage government building projects, at any level, to incorporate sustainable practices and materials. These practices will increase market demand for recycled products and renewable energy alternatives in Western Iowa.

Our Mission

Develop and promote economic, human and natural resources through cooperative efforts. As part of its commitment to protecting natural resources, the Board of Directors committed to constructing a "green" office building.

Purpose

• Primary purpose - To demonstrate the ease and long-term cost-effectiveness of using recycled products and renewable energy alternatives in building projects
• Secondary purpose - To encourage government building projects, whether county, state or federal, to incorporate sustainable practices and materials
• Tertiary purpose - To increase market demand for recycled products and renewable energy alternatives in western Iowa

Results

• Building is expected to be viable for at least 75 years
• Reduces landfill waste by nearly 15 tons
• Reduces CO2 emissions through energy efficient lighting, heating and cooling and avoiding materials with ozone depleting substances
• Building designed to be efficient and cost-effective for many years to come

Links of Interest

HDR is a nationally recognized employee-owned architectural, engineering and consulting firm. Established in 1917, the company employs over 3,200 professionals across the U.S. and abroad. HDR Architecture's Sustainable Design Services assisted Golden Hills RC&D in the design process for its new building.