What We're Doing at
NOLS Rocky Mountain

The heart of our Rocky Mountain operation is in Lander, Wyoming.

Recycling

• All departments recycle cardboard, glass, newspaper, office pack paper, mail, magazines, and aluminum.

Transportation

• A more fuel-efficient vehicle was purchased last year for evacuations.
• Course pick-ups and drop-offs to and from the field are planned more efficiently, so as to reduce “deadhead” bus runs.
• Course logistics are planned so that travel in between skill sections is minimized, reducing fuel use.
• We have several bikes for in-town and field staff to use so they drive less.
• Our transportation department is heated with used oil.

Goals

• Create a NOLS Rocky Mountain organic garden in Lander by 2008.
• Increase solar efficiency in buildings and decrease facility energy consumption by 20 percent.
• Collect gray water at Three Peaks.
• Work towards fueling our vehicles with biodiesel and reduce fuel consumption by 5 percent.
• Recycle used motor oil in Vernal.
• Expand the garden at Three Peaks.
• Explore feasibility of using goats for weed control rather than herbicides.
• Reduce paper consumption by 25 percent in one year, which is measured by purchase and weight.
• By the summer of 2010, 20 percent of student food will be locally sourced, including produce and meats.

NOLS Three Peaks Ranch

NOLS Rocky Mountain also operates the Three Peaks Ranch set on the western edge of the Wind River Mountains, in Boulder, Wyoming.

• Biodegradable organic materials are composted at Three Peaks Ranch.
• Horses are grazed rotationally to reduce impact on pasture and wildlife.
• We grow many of our own vegetables at Three Peaks Ranch.

NOLS Utah River Base in Vernal, Utah

This facility was designed and built specifically for its easy access to the Green River.

• Biodegradable organic materials are composted at the River Base.
• We grow many of our own vegetables at our river base.