BuiltGreen (the green building arm of the Master Builders Association) has a series of checklists to help builders (and homeowners) determine the level of green building implemented in a home. The checklists are divided by the type of project – and really cover the spectrum from remodels and single-dwelling residences to multifamily and even communities. You can download the checklists (in pdf form) from BuiltGreen’s website.

I know several contractors that focus on sustainable and/or green building. Contact me if you would like a referral. email; 206.418.6260

BuiltGreen is also hosting their annual BuiltGreen Conference this Friday – more suited towards builders, developers, architects, engineers, and other professionals than an average homeowner though. If you’re interested check it out at: builtgreenconference.com

Our March Newsletter quizzed you on the following question:

The saguaro cactus is native only to which desert?

The Answer is: Sonoran Desert.

Saguaro cacti, Carnegiea gigantea, only grow in the Sonoran Desert. However, they do not grow in all parts of the Sonoran Desert. This map represents the range of the Sonoran Desert (crosshatch) with an overlay of the range of the saguaro cactus (solid). The range of the saguaro is limited by freezing temperatures in winter.

Saguaros are also limited by elevation. They are generally found growing from sea level to approximately 4,000 feet in elevation. Saguaros growing higher than 4,000 feet are usually found on south facing slopes where freezing temperatures are less likely to occur or are shorter in duration. [Source and a lot more interesting factoids can be found on the National Park Service website.]

Email or call us (206.418.6260) with this answer and the secret passcode (”sunshine”), and we’ll enter you into a drawing for a $25 gift certificate!