Sustainable and Low Impact Development Class

During a conference organized by the Department of Ecology's Washington Conservation Corps (WCC), O'Brien & Company taught 15 young adults about sustainability, green building and low impact development.

The four-day course included tours of green projects on the Kitsap and Olympic peninsulas, including a new rainwater harvesting installation, the Islandwood environmental learning center, an multifamily eco-village, and one of the first green buildings in the region, Bainbridge Island City Hall

Expert guest speakers shared their experience with rain gardens, pervious concrete and green roofs. O'Brien & Company provided lecture and activities on measuring sustainability and sustainable site design.

On the final day students experienced a hands-on rain garden installation facilitated by Matthew Berberich of Port Townsend. In the course closing students learned about green job opportunities in construction, building operation and maintenance, and as sustainability coordinators.