At Mettawee Properties, we are committed to becoming more sustainable. Knowing that the properties have been upgraded to be environmentally friendly should leave you with a good feeling. When you stay here, you are supporting Vermont's residents, environment, wildlife and sustainability. We are always looking forward to our next project, but we have accomplished a lot at the properties already. Read more below to see how we are doing our part for the environment.

Solar power & energy efficiency

Both properties are supported by a photoelectric solar installation located on the Littlebranch roof. In the pool room at Mettawee, we use a solar powered vent fan and a solar pool cover to minimize heat and water loss through evaporation. By 2021 we are hoping to have 20 supplemental solar panels at the Mettawee Pool House.

The Mettawee Pool House is heated and cooled by a high efficiency heat pump. Energy Star Appliances are used throughout both properties. The Mettawee Pool House uses a high efficiency Buderus propane boiler for supplemental heating, as well as an Energy Star heating and cooling system.

LED lighting is installed throughout the Mettawee Properties where possible. Exterior lighting sensors are installed and interior timers are used where needed. Replacement high efficiency windows are installed in about 75% of the properties. High efficiency energy saving doors are installed throughout the Mettawee pool room. Insulation has been upgraded to be more efficient as needed throughout both Mettawee properties. Strategic shade tree planting and maintenance reduces our energy usage for heating and cooling. The mini evergreen forest on the north side of the Mettawee Pool House shields the house from the wind, creating a natural barrier and insulator.

At the end of 2021 we will have a Level Two electric car charging station at the Mettawee Properties. We will be installing a high efficiency heating and cooling system (similar to the one currently at the Mettawee Pool House) at Littlebranch by June, 2021. We will be replacing the Mettawee pool room skylights with Energy Star windows as well as replacing the roof with “cool roofing” options in 2020. We are planning to convert the former garage area into a super insulated living area with a see-through fireplace in 2021.

water efficiency

The Mettawee Properties feature recently upgraded bathrooms, all of which have water saving toilets and low-flow shower heads. Landscape modifications at both properties are drought resistant, minimize paved surfaces, and allow us to re-use water runoff on site. We use a large rain barrel and dehumidifier condensate for plant watering at the Mettawee Pool House.

By the end of 2021, we will increase our capacity to collect and use rainwater within the grounds at both Mettawee Properties.

gardens

Every plant in the Mettawee Property gardens has been carefully selected with pollinators and wildlife in mind. Our gardens are not treated with any kind of harsh chemicals or pesticides. With guidance from the Xerces Society, we have created a safe environment that allows our natural ecosystem to thrive. Large surface windows on the properties have special window films to help prevent bird strikes. The gardens and grounds are sources of fresh water, bird feeders and houses, hummingbird attractants and feeders, and an integrated pest management plan for non-toxic pest control. We have created a brush pile along our field border to promote wildlife habitat.

guest rooms & living area

Guests are provided with a “green guide” that provides information about the local environment, conservation efforts, and how to respectfully enjoy your surroundings. We provide environmentally friendly guest amenity products where possible.

By June 2021 we plan to have an on-site composting system at Mettawee Properties to reduce our waste and put nutrients back into our soil.

local impact

Mettawee Properties supports local organizations and residents in a variety of ways. We regularly donate to local non-profit groups that support our community. We employ a team of skilled local residents to help with maintenance and improvement of the properties. Major and minor renovations are carefully planned with a goal of using locally found materials. The Littlebranch patio, in particular, is made from scrap marble from the Danby Marble Quarry. The houses are outfitted with Vermont made products. Using local materials and products reduces our carbon footprint and supports the local economy.