Environmental Sustainability

Environmental Sustainability

We Define Sustainability at Visit Mesa Verde National Park as...

"The ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."

We have a deep respect for and commitment to the environment. With our unique location within Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado, we recognize the need to protect this rare environment where we live, work and play. We also understand that sustainability is an ever evolving practice and is not a destination.


Learn More:


Our Efforts

FOOD SOURCING

Increasing procurement of local, seasonal and responsibly sourced products.

  • Purchase locally sourced foods and beverages from area growers, vintners, brewers, butchers and more.
  • Partner with the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Program and only purchase fish from the green, or occasionally the yellow list.
  • Source only RBsT hormone free dairy products and cage-free eggs.
Environmental Sustainability at Asilomar

How can I help?

Many locally produced goods and edibles are available for purchase in our retail stores – consider purchasing these as excellent mementos of your trip.


EFFICIENT OPERATIONS

Controlling our energy usage.

  • Utilizing occupancy sensors to control power use in office areas.
  • Converting lighting to LED efficient systems.
Environmental Sustainability at Asilomar

How can I help?

Be sure to turn off all electrical devices when not using.


WATER CONSERVATION

Saving each drop.

  • Installed low flow showerheads, toilets.
  • Offering an ‘opt-out’ linen conservation program.
Environmental Sustainability at Asilomar

How can I help?

As a guest, please use only the water you need when showering or using the sink. Reuse your towels by hanging up after use to reduce linen laundry.


MINIMIZING WASTE

Waste is minimized throughout our operations.

  • Operating a recycling center within the park.
  • Not purchasing Styrofoam for food and beverage containers.
  • Working with suppliers to minimize all shipping packaging where possible and to utilize bulk containers when feasible.
  • Providing collection containers and bins for guests to place compostables and recyclables in.
Environmental Sustainability at Asilomar

How can I help?

Recycle materials in appropriate bins and minimize use of throw-away containers.


TRANSPORTATION AND FUEL

Reduce emissions and decrease fuel consumption.

  • Purchasing a propane powered motorcoach to reduce emissions on our Mesa Verde sightseeing tours.
  • Providing shuttles up and down the mesa for Morefield Campground guests and our associates in order to reduce traffic throughout the park.
  • Using electric powered carts for housekeeping operations.
Environmental Sustainability at Asilomar

How can I help?

Consider enjoying the park with a guided sightseeing tour instead of driving from site to site.


We welcome feedback on any of our sustainability initiatives at Visit Mesa Verde National Park, or ideas that any guest may have that we may implement. In addition to the items above, external communications to and from our guests is a key component of our sustainability program.