Events : Workshops

COSC at Regional Fairs and Home Shows | 2010 Workshop History

 

COSC's Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa statewide training program workshops are offered free-of-charge for a limited time thanks to funding from Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

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Sept. 23, 2010 in DES MOINES

Sept. 24, 2010 in SIOUX CITY

Mortar Matters - A Joint Masonry Workshop

OVERVIEW

Mortar Matters IowaCOSC is pleased to host two nationally recognized experts on stabilization and preservation of historic masonry buildings for a one-day workshop titled "Mortar Matters" in Des Moines and Sioux City. Workshop topics include historic masonry, stucco, terra cotta, and chinking; problems of moisture damage-causes and solutions; preparing mortar specifications; and evaluating qualifications of masonry contractors. Download Flyer

DETAILS
DES MOINES:

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2010

State of Iowa Historical Building, Heritage Classroom

600 East Locust, Des Moines, IA 50319

SIOUX CITY:

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2010

Masonic Temple

820 Nebraska Street, Sioux City, IA 51101

Time:
9:00am - 4:00pm with 8:30am check-in
Cost:

FREE!! - And breakfast and lunch provided!

Register:

CONTACT LESLIE BERCKES at Leslie@icosc.com or 515-707-2787

Instructors:

David Arbogast and John Speweik

Audience:

Homeowners, contractors, preservation staff, preservation commission members, historic preservation students and historic building owners will benefit from this training event.

Schedule:

8:30am

Registration (light breakfast provided)

9:00 am

Historic Masonry & Mortar

10:45 am

Case Studies of Historic Buildings

12:00pm

Walking Tour

12:30pm

Lunch (provided)

1:15pm

Moisture Damage & Mortar Preparation

2:45pm

Choosing a Qualified Contractor

PROJECT PARTNERS
Special thanks to the following organizations that helped make this valuable educational opportunity possible!

 


Sept. 28, 2010 in DES MOINES

2030 Now: Case Study of MUM's Sustainable Living Center

OVERVIEW

MUM Sustainable Living CenterMaharishi University of Management (MUM) Sustainable Living Center is the first of its kind and provides an example of how the "Architecture 2030 Challenge" sustainability standards of a zero carbon footprint building can be met today. Using readily available building technology, products and building techniques, the Sustainable Living Center in Fairfield, Iowa, surpasses LEED platinum standards and complies with Living Building Challenge. Hosted by Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC).

DETAILS
Date:
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2010
Time:
5:00 - 7:00pm
Location:

John & Mary Pappajohn Education Center

1200 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA - Map

Cost:

TBD

REGISTER:

CONTACT LESLIE BERCKES at Leslie@icosc.com or 515-707-2787

Audience:

Architects, homeowners, planners, engineers, contractors, realtors and others

Instructors:

Dr. David Fisher – Chairman of the Sustainable Living Department

Masaki Furukawa – Architect of the Sustainable Living Center

Mike Niklas – AIA Fellow and Owner of Innovative Designs

Dal Loiselle - Developer/General Contractor

Objectives:

It is possible to design and build a carbon neutral or even carbon positive home or building using the methods and materials readily available here now.

 

The presentation will review all the systems in the building and how they were designed, the calculations and assumptions that were made, what conclusions were made, and what was done as a result. Dr. David Fisher, Chairman of the MUM Sustainable Living Department, the first 4 year degree program in sustainable living, will show the comparison chart of the 4 certifications that the building is designed to meet, including the Living Building Challenge, which sets the highest standard for sustainable design and green building in the world. In addition, Natural Production Building will be analyzed and reviewed.

RELATED LINKS

Maharishi University of Management's Sustainable Living Center website and YouTube Channel

Architecture 2030 Challenge adapted by AIA, USGBC and others

U.S. Green Building Council's LEED certification system

International Living Building Institute's Living Building Challenge

The Hawk Eye: "Sustainable Living Center is Unique in United States" (4/26/10)

KTVO: "Greenest Building in America in Fairfield" (4/22/10)

Associate Press: "Maharishi University Plans Ultimate Green Building" (8/5/08)


AFFORDABLE GREEN BUILDING TRAINING: CORNING

Professional Series Schedule

OVERVIEW

Corning Iowa HouseIn support of Corning's "Iowa House," COSC presents its valuable 10-part series teaching best techniques for building affordable, energy efficient, durable, healthy and environmentally sound homes. The workshops offer contractors, subcontractors, planners, architects, appraisers, city officials and other professionals a comprehensive understanding of green building from the ground up. A 3-session series for homeowners will be available in the spring of 2011.

LOCATION

REGISTRATION

Corning Community Center

601 Sixth St, Corning, IA 50841 - Map

Leslie Berckes, COSC

515-707-2787 | Leslie@icosc.com

Cost:
TBD - information to come
Instructor:
Jacob Kvinlaug (bio) and guest instructors as indicated below.

Saturday, Oct. 2

10:30am-12:00pm

12:00pm-1:00pm

1:00pm-3:00pm

(10:00am check-in)

Join us for:

A Community Intro to Corning's "Iowa House" followed by...

Complimentary Lunch and...

Workshop #1: Green Building Basics

Topics covered - The house as a system; planning and design; building science theory; and natural passive energy sources.

Saturday, Oct. 9

9:00am-1:00pm

(8:30am check-in)

Workshop #2: Foundations

Topics covered - Capillarity; foundation and floor slab design; sub-grade insulation strategies; and radon mitigation.

Saturday, Oct. 16

9:00am-1:00pm

Workshop #3: Framing

Topics covered - Optimum value engineering; Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs); and Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs); air barriers; rain screens; roofs; and attics.

Saturday, Oct. 30

9:00am-1:00pm

Workshop #4: Windows & Doors

Topics covered - Window and door specifications; flashing techniques; and passive solar design.

Date to come

Workshop #5: Insulation/Infiltration

Topics covered - Thermal bridging; wall sheathing; wall and attic insulation detailing; and building envelope thermal anomalies.

Date to come

Workshop #6: Plumbing & Electrical

Topics covered - Water conservation; domestic hot water systems (DHW); rainwater re-use; phantom electrical loads; energy conservation lighting; lightning protection and grounding ; and energy use monitoring.

Date to come

Workshop #7: Heating & Cooling Systems

Topics covered - System sizing and installation; duct leakage; system tuning and balancing; and controls.

Date to come

Workshop #8: Indoor Air Quality & Interior Finishes

Topics covered - Overview; Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) and Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs); other ventilation; filtration; interior finish choices; and selecting green products

Date to come

Workshop #9: Alternative Energy Options

Topics covered - Solar Domestic Hot Water systems; photovoltaic systems ; solar geothermal; small wind systems; tax credits; and photosynthesis.

Date to come

Workshop #10: Landscaping/Exterior Detailing

Topics covered - Exterior water management; rainwater collection; decks and patios; and waste recycling.

IOWA HOUSE PROJECT PARTNERS

Iowa State University School of Design, Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED), Iowa Finance Authority, Southwest Iowa Council of Governments/Local Housing Trust, Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC), ACCS and the City of Corning.


 

Oct 2, 2010 in DES MOINES

Bob Yapp Seminar

OVERVIEW

Bob Yapp & COSCCOSC is please to host expert Bob Yapp in Des Moines for two valuable preservation sessions that illustration sustainable alternatives to installing siding and replacing windows. In the morning, for "Old Windows Aren't a Pane - They're Green!," Yapp demonstrates that it's easy to improve the performance of an existing window. In the afternoon,"Paint It Right!" is an in-depth how-to that addresses durability and costs when choosing between painting a home or installing siding.

 

Bob Yapp's Bio | Flyer

DETAILS
Date:
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2010
Time:

9:00am - 3:00pm

Location:

Mickle Neighborhood Resource Center
1620 Pleasant Street, Des Moines, IA 50314 - Map

Cost:

FREE! (A COSC Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa program)

Register:

CONTACT LESLIE BERCKES at Leslie@icosc.com or 515-707-2787

Audience:

Homeowners, contractors, historic preservation professionals, historic preservation students and historic building owners.

Schedule:

8:30am

Registration (includes a light breakfast)

9:00am

Old Windows Aren't a Pane - They're Green!

Learn about safe lead paint and glass removal, epoxy wood repair, glazing putty application, weather stripping and sash installation. As a sustainable alternative to replacing windows, Yapp demonstrates that it's easy to improve the performance of an existing window .

11:00am

Break for lunch

12:30pm

Registration (refreshments provided)

1:00pm

Paint It Right!

Learn insightful information about how to get a 12-15 year paint job for 1/2 the price of siding while maintaining good moisture permeability rate, limiting rot, and more. Yapp addresses time-saving tools, lead paint removal, power washing, primers, chaulking and paint options. Includes a question and answer segment as well as handouts.

SPECIAL THANKS

 

 


Oct. 5, 2010 in FAIRFIELD

Iowa at Night: Lighting for a Sustainable Community's Future

OVERVIEW

Led by RDG Planning & Design, this commercial building workshop addresses planning and installation factors that go into successful, and sustainable, exterior lighting projects.

Download Flyer | Press Release

 

Photo: First National Bank - Metro Crossing in Council Bluffs. The architect, graphic artist and lighting designer worked in concert to design and illuminate a large graphic mural.

DETAILS
Date:
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2010
Time:
9:00am - 1:00pm with 8:30am check-in
Location:

Cambridge Meeting Room

Fairfield Arts and Convention Center

200 North Main Street, Fairfield, IA 52556 - Map

Cost:

FREE!! - And breakfast and lunch provided!

Register:

CONTACT LESLIE BERCKES at Leslie@icosc.com or 515-707-2787

Instructor:

David Raver & Jason Odefey, RDG Planning & Design

Audience:

Commercial building professionals from all sectors and community leaders

Objectives:

Foot-candles, watts per square foot, and the quality of light tend to come in conflict when designing exterior lighting systems. Many other factors such as safety and visibility also play a factor. This workshop will uncover the potential for a successful marriage of all of these elements resulting in both a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing lighting design solution.

 

Specific topics such as the review of the history of exterior lighting, current research and trends and a brief review of new LED technologies will be covered. All project types will be discussed ranging from commercial to residential to urban design. Further investigation of specific design “solutions” will also be reviewed in several hands on activities within the course including completing the LEED template for Sustainable Sites credit 8 and how to achieve this point on every project.

 

  • Participant should gain an understanding of basic exterior lighting principles and design techniques
  • Review of multiple different lighting systems and how to select the proper system for a specific design challenge
  • Implementing “sustainable” design practices including an awareness of LEED Lighting zones and pending Dark Skies legislation
  • Review of lighting case studies

 

Manufacturer’s product samples will also be available for review before and after the session.

WORKSHOP TEAM
center on sustainable communities

 


Oct. 6, 2010

Day of Sustainability - West Des Moines

OVERVIEW

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) brings its valuable green building workshops to West Des Moines. As part itsRe-Building a Sustainable Iowa statewide training program, the non-profit has recruited experts from RDG Planning & Design and Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship to teach "Green Roofs in an Urban Environment" and "Integrating Sustainable Storm Water Management Systems." The workshops are free and lunch will be provided at noon. See registration details below.

 

Download Flyer | Press Release

Note: COSC is now a USGBC Education Provider. The first approved course is "The Fundamentals of Green Roofs in an Urban Environment" (3 GBCI CE Hours)

Photo: Chicago City Hall - typical of green roof projects in urban Chicago.

DETAILS
Date:
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2010
Location:

West Des Moines City Hall, Council Chamber Room

4200 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines, IA 50265 - Map -

Cost:

FREE! And breakfast, lunch and refreshments are provided.

Registration:

Contact Leslie Berckes at Leslie@icosc.com or 515-707-2787

Schedule:

9:00am - 12:00pm (8:30am check-in)

INTEGRATING SUSTAINABLE STORM WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

Even during the smallest of all rain events in Iowa, millions of gallons of storm water are diverted to our rivers, lakes and streams through a large network of pipes, concrete channels, drainage ditches and other networks of “grey” infrastructure. This focused workshop reviews past paradigms and specific sustainable storm water management systems designed to reduce the negative impacts of “first flush.” Learn best management practices for reducing runoff, improving water quality and enhancing overall quality of life for both humans and ecosystems alike.

Topics covered:

- Design approach for conservation design and green infrastructure

- Design criteria for implementing integrated management practices

- Site selection, construction, operations and the associated benefits

- Maintenance of storm water best management systems

 

12:00pm - 1:00pm NETWORKING LUNCH

 

GBCI CMP logo1:00pm - 4:00pm

GREEN ROOFS IN AN URBAN ENVIRONMENT

Approved for 3 GBCI CE Hours

In the past century Iowa has seen a large population shift from our rural communities to thriving cities. During this urban and suburban explosion, much of the landscape has been altered or changed dramatically. Green roofs, or vegetated roofs, are becoming an increasingly popular choice with a magnitude of sustainable benefits.

Topics covered:

- Understanding the basic systems of green roof design

- Environmental and economical benefits of green roofs

- Implementation opportunities

- Case studies within Iowa

- Criteria / LEED Rating System / Sustainable Site Initiative

Instructors:

Doug Adamson & Ryan Peterson, RDG Planning & Design

Wayne Peterson, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

Audience:

Homeowners, engineers, developers, landscape architects, elected officials, concerned citizens and interested personnel from county, state, and local governments


 

 
COSC EXHIBITS

In 2010 COSC will participate at the following events:

Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010

BACKYARD CONSERVATION SEMINAR

DMACC, Ankeny

 

Sunday, Feb. 28, 2010

DRAKE SUSTAINABILITY FAIR

Drake University, Des Moines

 

Saturday, Mar. 6, 2010

CRESTON HOME & GARDEN SHOW

Southern Prairie YMCA, Creston

 

Sunday, Mar. 7, 2010

KDEC HOME, SPORT & GARDEN SHOW

Decorah High School, Decorah

 

Saturday and Sunday, Mar. 27-28, 2010

NATURAL LIVING EXPO

Polk County Convention Complex, Des Moines

 

April 18, 2010

EARTH DAY IN THE JUNCTION

Valley Junction, West Des Moines

 

April 22, 2010

ECOpalooza

Iowa City Public Library, Iowa City

 

April 22, 2010

UNI EARTH DAY CELEBRATION

Maucker Union Courtyard, Cedar Falls

 

April 28, 2010

PRINCIPAL GREEN FAIR

Principal Pavilion, Des Moines

June 14, 2010

2010 ENERGY FAIR

Cedar Rapids Art Museum Auditorium, Cedar Rapids

 

July 22, 2010

NEOCANT

Polk County Convention Center, Des Moines

 

August 8, 2010

SHOOT YOUR COMMUTE

East Village, Des Moines

 

August 20-22, 2010

digIN - The Decorah Iowa Green INitiative

Decorah

 

August 24, 2010

24TH ANNUAL IOWA DOWNTOWN SUMMIT

River Center, Davenport

 

September 22, 2010

MAKING THE LEAD & HELTHY HOMES CONNECTION CONFERENCE

Cedar Rapids Marriott, Cedar Rapids

 

October 15, 2010

IOWA ENVIRONMENTAL COUNCIL'S ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Scottish Rite Consistory, Des Moines

 

October 16, 2010

BIOFEST

Spacial Designs, Mason City

 

   

 

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COSC'S 2010 WORKSHOP HISTORY
 
AFFORDABLE GREEN BUILDING TRAINING: WEST UNION

A free workshop series concentrating on each phase of building a cost effective, energy efficient and structurally sound home.

 

Professional Series (Jan 8 - May 7, 2010) — A valuable opportunity for contractors, subcontractors, planners, architects, appraisers, city officials and other professionals to gain a comprehensive understanding of green building best practices. The 10-workshop series is free and lunch is provided.

 

Homeowner Series (Feb 6 - Apr 3, 2010) — An accompanying 3-session homeowner series will give community residents an overview of green building basics, alternative energy options and essential sustainable elements of new home construction. The workshops are free and lunch is provided.

 

Learn more >>

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WEST DES MOINES AFFORDABLE GREEN DEMONSTRATION HOME

In 2009, the City of West Des Moines in partnership with COSC and HOME, Inc. collaborated to build a community supported affordable green demonstration home in Historic Valley Junction. The main objective of this project is to provide easy access to and participation in the construction of an affordable and practical new green home. COSC hosted a series of professional and homeowner workshops and open house events will be scheduled in early 2010.

 

Learn more >>

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HEATING VENTILATING & AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC)

Energy efficiency is one of the most essential elements in creating a sustainable built environment. COSC's HVAC workshops are dedicated to providing contractors and homeowners the best educational resource for achieving optimal energy efficiency standards.

 

Consumer Introduction to Quality Heating & Cooling Installation —- An information rich evening session for homeowners, realtors, appraisers, lenders, municipal staff and others. Learn more >>

 

Professional Rater / HVAC Performance Testing & Balancing —- Upon successful completion of this free 2-day workshop, HERS Raters obtain the National Comfort Institute (NCI) Air Balancing Certification. Learn more >>

 

NCI HVAC Performance, Diagnostics & Balancing Training — This free ($590 value) 2-day intensive for HVAC contractors is packed full of practical and cutting-edge information. Contractors leave equipped with all necessary energy-efficiency expertise, testing and diagnostic skills, data and hands-on training to advance their profession. Receive certification from the National Comfort Institute (NCI) upon successful completion of the workshop. Learn more >>

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Saturday, July 17, 2010

On-Site Luncheon Learn: Monolithic Dome Construction

OVERVIEW

Join COSC, LEED-certified architect Russ Ver Ploeg, builder Jack Boyt, project property owners Terry and Jane Swanson, and land owner Joe Reynolds for an introduction to Monolithic Dome construction.

 

Benefits of Monolithic Dome Construction include:

  • Superior Durability - meets FEMA standards for near-absolute protection from tornados and hurricanes
  • Significant Energy Efficiency - normally requires one fourth of that used by other types of structures

 

The presentation will be followed by a tour of the property and a complimentary grill-out lunch!

DETAILS
Date:
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Time:
10:00 - 11:30am
Location:

9618 Fairfax Trail, Norwalk, IA - Map (PDF)

Starting from Blank Park Zoo, travel south on SW 9th Street approximately 5 miles. SW 9th Street becomes County Road R63. Look for the intersection of County Roads R63 and G24 – travel a few yards further and look for Fairfax Trail on the west side. Turn onto Fairfax Trail and continue to construction site.

Cost:

FREE!

REGISTER:

RSVP to Lesie Berckes at 515-707-2787 or Leslie@icosc.com

Audience:

Architects, homeowners, planners, engineers, contractors, realtors and others

RELATED LINKS

Iowa's Green Living Domes - http://www.greenlivingdomes.com/

Monolithic.com - http://www.monolithic.com


June 29, 2010

Iowa At Night – Lighting for a Sustainable Community’s Future

OVERVIEW

Join COSC at 1000 Friends of Iowa's Sustainable Planning: The Concept and Experience in Iowa - A one-day event will include morning lectures on sustainable development, breakout sessions and sustainable projects tour. In the 11:30 am breakout session, David Raver of RDG Planning & Design presents "Iowa at Night - Lighting for a Sustainable Community's Future." This commercial building workshop addresses planning and installation factors that go into successful, and sustainable, exterior lighting projects.

 

*Congratulations to RDG Planning & Design for receiving six lighting design awards from the Illuminating Engineering Society!

DETAILS
Date:
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Time:
11:30am (The day-long event is from 8:30am-4:30pm)
Location:

Holiday Inn-Mercy Campus, Des Moines, IA

Cost:

Event registration fee is $85.00

REGISTER:

Download the registration form here or visit 1000FriendsOfIowa.org

Instructor:

David Raver, RDG Planning & Design

Audience:

Architects, planners, engineers, contractors, realtors and others

WORKSHOP TEAM
center on sustainable communities

 


May 27, 2010 in Hiawatha

How to Choose a Contractor

OVERVIEW

Experts Bill McAnally and Linda Schemmel teach this engaging evening session of insightful guidelines and specific tips for determining the right sustainable contractor for your new construction or remodeling project. As more professionals continue to enter the green building marketplace, learn what key questions to ask a potential contractor, how to gauge levels of expertise, which skills are a priority for the job and resources that can help ensure a project's success. Press Release | Flyer (PDF)

DETAILS
Date:
THURSDAY, MAY 27, 2010
Time:
6:00 - 7:30pm with 5:30pm check-in
Location:

Hiawatha Public Library

150 West Wilman Street, Hiawatha, IA 52233 [Map]

Cost:

FREE!

Register:

CONTACT LESLIE BERCKES: Leslie@icosc.com or 515-707-2787

Instructor:

Bill McAnally, Chair of Industrial Technology at Iowa Central Community College, and Linda Schemmel, architect and COSC Building Advisory Council member.

Audience:

Homeowners, builders, realtors, appraisers, lenders and others

This COSC Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa program workshop is free with funding support provided by IDED and HUD.


 

May 8, 2010 in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City

Old Windows Aren't a Pane - They're Green!

OVERVIEW

COSC brings window preservation expert Bob Yapp to Iowa to teach cost effective and energy efficient historic restoration methods for original, double-hung, wood windows. Whether a contractor, homeowner or preservation professional, attendees of “Old Windows Aren’t a Pane – They’re Green!” will benefit from Yapp’s knowledge of safe lead paint and glass removal, epoxy wood repair, glazing putty application, weather stripping and sash installation. As a sustainable alternative to replacing windows, Yapp demonstrates that it's easy to improve the performance of an existing window.

Bob Yapp's Bio | Press Release

DETAILS
Date:
SATURDAY MAY 8, 2010
Cedar Rapids:

9:00am - 11:00am with 8:30am check-in

Carl & Mary Koehler History Center

615 First Avenue, SE

Cedar Rapids, IA 52401 [Map]

Iowa City:

1:30pm - 3:30pm with 1:00pm check-in

Iowa City Public Library, Room A

123 South Linn Street

Iowa City, IA 52240 [Map]

Cost:

FREE!

Register:

CONTACT LESLIE BERCKES at Leslie@icosc.com or 515-707-2787

Audience:

Homeowners, contractors, historic preservation professionals, historic preservation students and historic building owners

SPECIAL THANKS

 

 

 

May 4, 2010

Day of Sustainability in Davenport

OVERVIEW

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) brings its valuable green building workshops to Davenport Tuesday, May 4th. As part itsRe-Building a Sustainable Iowa statewide training program, the non-profit out of West Des Moines has recruited experts from RDG Planning & Design and Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship to teach "Green Roofs in an Davenport Police FacilityUrban Environment" and "Integrating Sustainable Storm Water Management Systems." The workshops are Free and lunch will be provided at noon. See registration details below.

 

Day of Sustainability will take place at the Davenport Police Facility, designed by Neumann Monson Architects. The facility boasts a green roof and was awarded a LEED gold certification in 2009.

Press Release | Flyer

DETAILS
Date:
TUESAY, MAY 4, 2010
Location:

Davenport Police Department Community Room

416 North Harrison Street
Davenport, IA 52801 [Map]

Cost:

FREE! And breakfast, lunch and refreshments are provided.

Registration:

Contact Leslie Berckes at Leslie@icosc.com or 515-707-2787

Schedule:

9:00am - 12:00pm (8:30am check-in)

INTEGRATING SUSTAINABLE STORM WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

Even during the smallest of all rain events in Iowa, millions of gallons of storm water are diverted to our rivers, lakes and streams through a large network of pipes, concrete channels, drainage ditches and other networks of “grey” infrastructure. This focused workshop reviews past paradigms and specific sustainable storm water management systems designed to reduce the negative impacts of “first flush.” Learn best management practices for reducing runoff, improving water quality and enhancing overall quality of life for both humans and ecosystems alike.

Topics covered:

- Design approach for conservation design and green infrastructure

- Design criteria for implementing integrated management practices

- Site selection, construction, operations and the associated benefits

- Maintenance of storm water best management systems

 

12:00pm - 1:00pm NETWORKING LUNCH

 

1:00pm - 4:00pm

GREEN ROOFS IN AN URBAN ENVIRONMENT

In the past century Iowa has seen a large population shift from our rural communities to thriving cities. During this urban and suburban explosion, much of the landscape has been altered or changed dramatically. Green roofs, or vegetated roofs, are becoming an increasingly popular choice with a magnitude of sustainable benefits.

Topics covered:

- Understanding the basic systems of green roof design

- Environmental and economical benefits of green roofs

- Implementation opportunities

- Case studies within Iowa

- Criteria / LEED Rating System / Sustainable Site Initiative

Instructors:

Doug Adamson & Ryan Peterson, RDG Planning & Design

Wayne Peterson, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

Audience:

Homeowners, engineers, developers, landscape architects, elected officials, concerned citizens and interested personnel from county, state, and local governments


 

April 16, 2010 in Fairfield

Workshop #1

Green Roofs in an Urban Environment

Workshop #2

Integrating Sustainable Storm Water Management Systems

OVERVIEW

Center on Sustainable Communities (COSC) brings its valuable green building workshops to Fairfield on Friday, April 16. As part of the Southeast Iowa Backyard Conservation series and COSC's Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa statewide training program, the non-profit out of West Des Moines has recruited experts from RDG Planning & Design and Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship to teach "Green Roofs in an Urban Environment" and "Integrating Sustainable Storm Water Management Systems." The workshops are Free and lunch will be provided at noon. See registration details below.

DETAILS
Date:
FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2010
Location:

Jefferson County Extension Office

2606 West Burlington Avenue (Hwy 34 West)
Jefferson County Fairgrounds, Fairfield, IA

Cost:

FREE! And lunch and refreshments are provided.

Registration:

CONTACT LESLIE BERCKES at Leslie@icosc.com or 515-707-2787

Schedule:

10:00am - 12:00pm (9:30am check-in)

GREEN ROOFS IN AN URBAN ENVIRONMENT

In the past century Iowa has seen a large population shift from our rural communities to thriving cities. During this urban and suburban explosion, much of the landscape has been altered or changed dramatically. Green roofs, or vegetated roofs, are becoming an increasingly popular choice with a magnitude of sustainable benefits.

Topics covered:

- Understanding the basic systems of green roof design

- Environmental and economical benefits of green roofs

- Implementation opportunities

- Case studies within Iowa

- Criteria / LEED Rating System / Sustainable Site Initiative

 

12:00pm - 1:00pm NETWORKING LUNCH

 

1:00pm - 4:00pm

INTEGRATING SUSTAINABLE STORM WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

Even during the smallest of all rain events in Iowa, millions of gallons of storm water are diverted to our rivers, lakes and streams through a large network of pipes, concrete channels, drainage ditches and other networks of “grey” infrastructure. This focused workshop reviews past paradigms and specific sustainable storm water management systems designed to reduce the negative impacts of “first flush.” Learn best management practices for reducing runoff, improving water quality and enhancing overall quality of life for both humans and ecosystems alike.

Topics covered:

- Design approach for conservation design and green infrastructure

- Design criteria for implementing integrated management practices

- Site selection, construction, operations and the associated benefits

- Maintenance of storm water best management systems.

Instructors:

Doug Adamson & Ryan Peterson, RDG Planning & Design

Wayne Peterson, IDALS

Audience:

Homeowners, engineers, developers, landscape architects, elected officials, concerned citizens and interested personnel from county, state, and local governments

SPECIAL THANKS

 

April 8, 2010 in Cedar Rapids

Beyond Foot-Candles: Balancing Aesthetic and Technical Elements in Sustainable Exterior Lighting Design

OVERVIEW

Led by RDG Planning and Design, this commercial building workshop addresses planning and installation factors that go into successful, and sustainable, exterior lighting projects.

Downloadable flyer | Press Release | Facebook event page

DETAILS
Date:
THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2010
Time:
9:00am - 1:00pm with 8:30am check-in
Location:

Alliant Energy, 200 First Street SE, Cedar Rapids, IA

*Also available remotely via WebEx - inquire when registering.

Cost:

FREE - And coffee and lunch provided!

Register:

CONTACT LESLIE BERCKES at Leslie@icosc.com or 515-707-2787

Instructor:

David Raver & Jason Odefey, RDG Planning & Design

Audience:

Commercial building professionals from all sectors and community leaders

Objectives:

Foot-candles, watts per square foot, and the quality of light tend to come in conflict when designing exterior lighting systems. Many other factors such as safety and visibility also play a factor. This workshop will uncover the potential for a successful marriage of all of these elements resulting in both a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing lighting design solution.

 

Specific topics such as the review of the history of exterior lighting, current research and trends and a brief review of new LED technologies will be covered. All project types will be discussed ranging from commercial to residential to urban design. Further investigation of specific design “solutions” will also be reviewed in several hands on activities within the course including completing the LEED template for Sustainable Sites credit 8 and how to achieve this point on every project.

 

  • Participant should gain an understanding of basic exterior lighting principles and design techniques
  • Review of multiple different lighting systems and how to select the proper system for a specific design challenge
  • Implementing “sustainable” design practices including an awareness of LEED Lighting zones and pending Dark Skies legislation
  • Review of lighting case studies

 

Manufacturer’s product samples will also be available for review before and after the session.

WORKSHOP TEAM
center on sustainable communities

 


 

March 27-28, 2010

COSC'S NATURAL LIVING EXPO'S "GREEN SPEAKER SERIES"

NATURAL LIVING EXPO OVERVIEW

The Fifth Annual Natural Living Expo features natural, organic, and sustainable companies and products, live entertainment for kids and adults, and a speaker series on topics related to sustainability and health/wellness.

Expo Dates:

Saturday, Mar. 27 from 10am-6pm & Sunday, Mar. 28 from 11am-4pm

Cost:

Free admission, Free parking

Location:

Polk County Convention Complex, 501 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA

Website:

www.naturallivingexpo.org

COSC WORKSHOP #1:

MAINTENANCE FOR A HEALTHY HOME

Overview:

Create a healthier, more comfortable living environment by learning sustainable ways to accomplish home maintenance projects. Scheduling regular maintenance needs, addressing repairs, choosing products and prioritizing projects are just a few of the topics covered that can contribute to measurable improvements in your home's performance.

Date/Time:
Saturday, Mar. 27 at 11:00am
Instructor:

Jacob Kvinlaug, Kvinlaug Design & Construction

This COSC Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa program workshop is free with funding support provided by IDED and HUD.

COSC WORKSHOP #2:

CONSUMER INTRO TO QUALITY HEATING & COOLING INSTALLATIONS

Overview:
Ready to improve your home's energy efficiency? Presented by Cenergy, this workshop teaches how to save money, maintain efficient HVAC systems, improve indoor air quality and make informed decisions when purchasing a new system.
Date/Time:
Saturday, Mar. 27 at 1:00pm
Instructor:

Silas Hoeppner, Cenergy

This COSC Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa program workshop is free with funding support provided by IDED and HUD.

COSC WORKSHOP #3:

HOW TO CHOOSE A CONTRACTOR

Overview:

Find out how to ask key questions to help find the right sustainable building contractor for your project. Learn how to gauge levels of expertise, determine which skills are a priority for the job, and find resources that will help ensure a project's success.

Date/Time:
Saturday, Mar. 27 at 3:00pm
Instructor:

Jacob Kvinlaug, Kvinlaug Design & Construction and Linda Schemmel, Architect and Planner for City of West Des Moines

This COSC Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa program workshop is free with funding support provided by IDED and HUD.

COSC WORKSHOP #4:

EXISTING HOME ASSESSMENT - PRIORITIZING REHAB PROJECTS

Overview:
Taught by Dave and Julia Fish of Fishaus Craftsman Builders, this workshop teaches how to evaluate a house as an integrated system. Learn how to establish priorities for greening a home and improving its sustainability performance.
Date/Time:
Sunday, Mar. 28 at 1:00pm
Instructor:

Dave and Julia Fish, Fishaus Craftsman Builders

This COSC Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa program workshop is free with funding support provided by IDED and HUD.

COSC WORKSHOP #5:

SUSTAINABILITY AT IOWA COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

Overview:
Campuses across Iowa are placing a stronger emphasis on sustainability. As a preview to the College and University Sustainability Roundtable meeting at the Iowa Capitol, learn about the diverse programs schools are putting in place and why.
Date/Time:
Sunday, Mar. 28 at 2:00pm
WORKSHOPS TEAM

Listen to our announcement on KPTL-FM.

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March 9, 2010

GROWING SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES CONFERENCE

CONFERENCE OVERVIEW

Join COSC at the Growing Sustainable Communities Conference in Dubuque. This year's theme is “Sustainability: A Tool for Community and Economic Development.” As community and business leaders across the country learn more about sustainability, they have realized that sustainability offers us the opportunity to improve the quality of life for our community while capitalizing on new economic development opportunities.

Date/Time:

Tuesday, Mar. 9, 2010, 8:30am - 6:00pm

Cost:

$20.00 conference registration fee

Location:

Grand River Center in the Port of Dubuque

Registration:

Register online here, or call the City of Dubuque at 563-589-4100

Audience:

Regional industry leaders, elected officials, business owners, and those interested in learning more about opportunities to help their communities grow and prosper in the most sustainable way possible.

COSC WORKSHOP #1:

CONSUMER INTRO TO QUALITY HEATING & COOLING INSTALLATIONS

Overview:
Ready to improve your home's energy efficiency? Presented by Cenergy, this workshop teaches how to save money, maintain efficient HVAC systems, improve indoor air quality and make informed decisions when purchasing a new system.
Time:
10:00 - 11:30am
Instructor:

Silas Hoeppner, Cenergy

This workshop is part of COSC's Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa program, which is supported by funding from IDED and HUD.

COSC WORKSHOP #2:

EXISTING HOME ASSESSMENT - PRIORITIZING REHAB PROJECTS

Overview:
Taught by green building expert David Hade of Iowa Home Crafters, this workshop teaches how to evaluate a house as an integrated system. Learn how to establish priorities for greening a home and improving its sustainability performance. Using a local residential home as the classroom, this evening session provides attendees with an engaging on-site learning experience.
Time:
6:00 - 7:30pm
Location:

This session is taught at a residential home located at 1665 Atlantic Street, Dubuque, IA 52001

Instructor:

David Hade, Iowa Home Crafters

This workshop is part of COSC's Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa program, which is supported by funding from IDED and HUD.

WORKSHOP TEAM
PARTNERS

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March 6, 2010

MAINTENANCE FOR A HEALTHY HOME

OVERVIEW

Join COSC at the Creston Home & Garden show for this insightful session taught by Dave Hade of Iowa Home Crafters. Improve your home's energy efficiency and create a healthier, more comfortable living environment by learning sustainable ways to accomplish home maintenance projects. Scheduling regular maintenance needs, addressing repairs, choosing products and prioritizing projects are just a few of the topics covered that can contribute to measurable improvements to a home's performance.

DETAILS
Date:
Saturday, Mar. 6, 2010
Time:
1:15pm
Location:
Creston Home & Garden Show, Southern Prairie YMCA, Creston, IA
Cost:

Home Show ticket prices are $2 in advance/$3 at the door.

COSC's Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa sessions are supported by funding from IDED and HUD.

Instructor:

David Hade, Iowa Home Crafters

Audience:

Homeowners, builders, realtors, appraisers and lenders

WORKSHOP TEAM
center on sustainable communities

 

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March 4, 2010

RAINSCAPING, RAIN GARDENS & BIORETENTION CELL DESIGN

OVERVIEW

Presented by Iowa Storm Water Education Program and Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Division of Soil Conservation. This workshop taught landscaping techniques for reducing runoff, protecting water quality and preventing flooding. Made possible by COSC's Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa statewide training program.

Cost:

FREE!

COSC's Re-Building a Sustainable Iowa sessions are temporarily offered for free thanks to funding from IDED and HUD.

Instructors:

Wayne Peterson, IDALS, DSC and Pat Saur, IAMU, ISWEP

Registration:

Kathleen Gibbons, Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities, 515-289-1999

Registration Form

SCHEDULE
Date:
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Time:
1:00 - 4:30pm
Location:
Looft Hall, Room 006, Iowa Western Community College, 2700 College Road, Council Bluffs, IA 51503 - Map
DETAILS
Audience:

Engineers, landscape architects, municipal staff, consultants, landscape designers, contractors, landscapers, horticulturalists, biologists, students and interested homeowners.

Certification:

A special certificate of training in “Rain Gardens for Managing Stormwater Quality” will be provided at the end of this event.

WORKSHOP TEAM

center on sustainable communities

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