Working sustainably
We work hard to reduce emissions and sequester more carbon than we are emitting. We support these efforts through a multitude of decisions and practices, which include everything from our buildings to our farming practices. From our energy and water needs, to the roof above our heads, everything has been designed to be as low impact and environmentally sound as possible.
Responsible Practices
Renewable Energy
With two well-placed solar arrays, our farm produces 100% of our needed electricity using the power of the sun alone.
Climate control is one of the biggest consumers of energy for most homes and businesses. At Oakencroft, we have installed a geothermal heating and cooling system which, according to the EPA, is “the most energy efficient, environmentally clean, and cost effective” method to condition a space. The system works by using the constant temperature under the surface to significantly reduce the energy needed to provide heating and cooling inside.
Climate control is one of the biggest consumers of energy for most homes and businesses. At Oakencroft, we have installed a geothermal heating and cooling system which, according to the EPA, is “the most energy efficient, environmentally clean, and cost effective” method to condition a space. The system works by using the constant temperature under the surface to significantly reduce the energy needed to provide heating and cooling inside.
the Earth's abundant
Water Conservation
Built into the architecture of our visitor spaces, you will find a system of runnels and gutters which collect rainwater and direct it into our 17,500 gallon storage tanks. We then use this water to meet our landscaping needs and to supply our restroom toilets, allowing us to conserve clean drinking water that would normally be flushed away.
The average American uses 82 gallons of water per day, much of which is used in the bathroom. Beyond using captured rainwater, we also make use of low flow and water saving fixtures.
The average American uses 82 gallons of water per day, much of which is used in the bathroom. Beyond using captured rainwater, we also make use of low flow and water saving fixtures.
Saving for the future with
Sustainable Materials
Our visitor spaces have been built with some of the most sustainable materials available. For example, much of the wood you will notice on the exterior of our buildings is Accoya wood, a sustainably sourced, low carbon alternative to traditional pressure treated lumber
Building from the ground up with
Habitat Restoration
We are working with the Center for Urban Habitats on taking a two acre section of the farm and converting it back into a native Pine Savannah. This endeavor re-colonizes the area with native grasses, shrubs, and trees to support the hyper-local flora and fauna of our area within the Piedmont region. In closely managing a prescribed burn, we were able to begin this long term restoration project that will serve as a natural home to many of the species found on our farm.
Supporting native species through