Sustainability

Our work in the McDowell Sonoran Desert Preserve (CMAR) has exemplified our efforts to protect our natural resources. The Gateway to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve has recently been certified as LEED Platinum. This project and its companion trailhead Lost Dog Wash Trailhead implemented techniques in native desert preservation that has minimized the footprint in sensitive desert areas. The sites also include stabilized pavements of native soils, native plant protection and restoration, desert pavement restoration, rain and gray water re-use systems, solar power, composting toilets, stabilized-native soil walls (“rammed-earth”), interpretive signage, low water use plumbing fixtures and other strategies for the protection of the environment.

Northern Arizona University Athletic Fields Expansion (CMAR) is also on the path toward LEED certification. Valley Rain collaborated with the Design Team to incorporate virtually all native materials from the site into the work. Limestone rock, timber, and other recycled and re-used materials were used to limit the project’s impact on the environment.

Paseo Vista Recreation Area (CMAR) is a new public park constructed on top of a capped and closed landfill. The project has been selected as a pilot project in the development of a new Sustainable Sites program initiated by the ASLA. Valley Rain is working with the City of Chandler, EPG, Inc. Design Team and the ASLA to establish rating standards for this new program with focuses on green building design and construction of landscape projects and exterior site areas.