By Muriel Eason
Special to The SUN
The Pagosa Springs Community Development Corporation (CDC) will feature Sally High of the Geothermal Greenhouse Partnership (GGP) at a public meeting, Monday, May 6, at 5:30 p.m. at the Quality Resort to present a project overview, status report and comments on the group’s next steps. This is a continuation of a spring series on renewable energy.
The Town of Pagosa Springs and much of Archuleta County sits on one of the largest geothermal aquifers in Colorado. Currently, the only use of this resource has been springs for locals and tourists to soak in, and for heating a few buildings downtown.
High is one of the champions who has been actively advancing geothermal potential in the Pagosa Springs area.
The GGP aims to:
1) create a center for lifelong education as well as for advanced study in agriculture and renewable technology;
2) provide a test site for the commercialization of year-round organic crops at high altitude using renewable energy;
3) provide affordable, organic, locally-grown food for people and businesses; and
4) provide year-round community gardens.
Greenhouse domes will be built in Centennial Park on the banks of the San Juan River. This unique development downtown will become a visible tourist attraction that will invite locals and visitors alike to pause, enjoy the natural setting, pursue environmental education, experience sustainable agriculture and appreciate renewable energy technologies.
The presentation will be followed by a community discussion and CDC project updates. Afterwards, there will be a casual reception to mix and mingle with the Pagosa Springs CDC board, members of the business community and interested citizens.
