Conservation Design Measures

Use of cleared Poplar and White Pine trees for construction materials

Maintenance of riparian zone along river

Site re-vegetated with native grass and wildflower mix

Preservation of wetands and white pine stands

Rainwater collection

Installation of two raingardens and rock check dams in bioswales

Energy Conservation Measures

Energy efficient appliances

Use of CFL light bulbs

Use of clothesline

Reduction of phantom loads/switched outlets

Diagnostic blower door test

Three Solar Applications

Passive solar (orientation, shading, thermal mass and triple pane windows)

Grid tied Photovoltaic system – (16 Sharp 165 Watt Panels, Sunny Boy 2500 Inverter, Wattsun Tracker)

Solar thermal/woodstove/propane backup heating system with radiant tubes – (16 Sunda Evacuated Solar Thermal Tubes, 375 gallon thermal storage tank, Takagi On Demand Hot Water Heater)

Water and Waste Systems

Zero discharge home with no connection to municipal water service, well or septic system (See www.equaris.com)

Rainwater collection system via a metal roof

Separation of grey and black water

Black water composted

Grey water aerated and treated for potable water use

Integrated recycling system for glass, plastic, aluminum and toxic substances

Excess wood and non treated wood salvaged for use in hybrid wood stove heating system

Timber Frame Structure and Building Systems

Reclaimed Douglas fir timber frame (Duluth Timber and Woodland Builders)

Reused Douglas fir for porch rafters and select trim (Common Ground Deconstruction)

SIP enclosure with additional air/vapor barrier (Winter Panel and Shelter Supply)

ICF basement walls (Neudora)

Use of whole house heat recovery ventilation system (Venmar)

Abundant use of foam sealants for SIPS, penetrations, windows etc

Use of vapor barrier under concrete slabs

Installation of radon mitigation system/sump

Building Materials and Products

Bamboo flooring

Marmoleum flooring

Low VOC paints