Oregon is one of the top 10 states in the nation for high performance green building initiatives known as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. But getting certified is not a simple undertaking. It involves proof that properties meet the highest standards for environmental responsibility, and energy and water efficiency, and points earned in open space restoration, heat island reduction, and conservation. For the iconic LEED Platinum-rated Moda Center, sustainability is more than a core value; it is a commitment to continue to innovate and improve the site’s environmental footprint. Thoughtful approaches to landscaping further that goal.
DeSantis Landscapes has been The Official Landscaper to the Portland Trail Blazers, and the EcoDistrict that includes the Moda Center and the 30-acre Rose Quarter sports and entertainment complex, since 2013.
Austyn Polzel, account manager and horticulturist, heads the Rose Quarter landscape maintenance team for DeSantis. “The Trail Blazers commitment to conservation, and its partnership landscape architects and environmental designers at GreenWorks PC, created an inspiring framework for sustainability. The campus is a shining example of how it is done on a large scale – how we can maintain and protect biodiversity, reduce environmental hazards, and make sure the public space is a healthy space for community gathering and events,” says Austyn.
The Moda Center was awarded LEED Gold in 2009. In 2019, it was the first arena to earn LEED O+M Platinum Certification, a major milestone in the greening of sports. Recently, DeSantis Landscapes helped the campus meet LEED Platinum re-certification with a focus on five impact categories:
- Landscape Waste Reduction – Diversion of landscape waste via mulching, composting by offloading nearly 22,000 pounds of green waste and converting to compost and mulch.
- Drought Tolerance – Plant palette is largely drought-tolerant, and key turf areas have been planted with Fleur de Lawn, a biodiverse eco-and water-friendly lawn alternative developed by researchers at Oregon State.
- Soil & Air Quality Improvements – Supplemental nutrient-rich compost to replenish and stabilize the soil, and improve carbon sequestration.
- Reduced Risk Profile – Implementation of low impact cultural practices using organic fertilizers, no synthetic chemicals, hand-pulling weeds to limit herbicides, and an integrated pest management program to reduce need for pesticides and control products.
- Outdoor Water Use Reduction – Designed and installed a high-efficiency Weathermatic SmartLink irrigation control technology to improve water conservation and control soil moisture, and drip irrigation systems in beds.
“Philosophically and practically, we’ve been green for nearly fifty years, but LEED gives us a framework to measure and improve our performance, and partner with organizations that share similar goals,” said company president, Dean DeSantis.
To learn more about DeSantis Landscapes commitment to ecological integrity, conservation and climate positive practices, or how sustainable landscape practices can earn LEED points, go to: www.desantislandscapes.com