Homebrew Wind Turbine Workshop - EXTENDED WORKSHOP

Attendees will build a 10' diameter wind turbine from scratch. There will be two sessions each day (total of 4 sessions). We encourage people to sign up for all 4 sessions if they want hands on experience with every process involved. We'll start out on Saturday morning with magnets, copper wire and lumber. Tasks will include fabricating the alternator, carving blades and final assembly/testing. We'll cover every aspect of the construction except for welding and metal work (that's too loud/dangerous for this fair) At the end we hope to finish the machine and donate it to the silent auction.

Dan Bartmann and the other folks from otherpower.com all live off grid west of Fort Collins Colorado. Their workshop is completely wind powered with homebuilt machines. They've been building wind turbines for several years. This is the 4th year they've given the 'homebrew wind turbine workshop' at the RSLF. They've also done a more intensive workshop for the MREA and volunteered help at Hugh Piggotts workshops for SEI.

Times & Cost:
Saturday & Sunday 10:00 to 12:30 & 2:30 to 5:00
Each session is limited to six participants
Fee is $30 per workshop session

Strawbale Construction and Plaster Workshop - EXTENDED WORKSHOP

Curtis Scheib, owner of EcoEnergy Builders, returns to the Fair to lead participants through a hands-on a strawbale structure construction workshop. The first workshop teaches the framing of the structure, preparing the bales, basics of load bearing vs. non-load bearing structures, and setting and pinning the bales. The second workshop will continue where the first left off by teaching the construction techniques used during strawbale home building. The third workshop will shift to prepare the structure for stucco plaster, including wrapping the walls to retain the exterior coat. The fourth workshop will finish the structure with a stucco plaster coat.

Times & Cost:
Saturday & Sunday 10:00 to 12:00 & 3:00 to 5:00
Each session is limited to twelve participants
Fee is $30 per workshop session

Run Your Diesel on Straight Vegetable Oil - EXTENDED WORKSHOP

This hands-on workshop will guide you though the basics of converting a diesel engine to run on straight waste vegetable oil (SVO/WVO) with the flip of a switch. We will cover the stock function of the diesel fuel system and its transformation to SVO. We will compare several popular kits, and show how to create your own. The "how to" of basic wiring, valves, controls, and different options for plumbing. Learn how to build a centrifuge rig to dewater and filter in 1 step, as well as other filter methods, and testing for water. Several converted vehicles will be available to study. Designed for the beginner to the professional mechanic. Presented by Curt Busby, Civil Engineer, BurnVeg.com.

Times & Cost:
Saturday & Sunday 11:00
Each session is limited to twelve participants
Fee is $30 per workshop session

Build Your Own Vermicomposting System - EXTENDED WORKSHOP

Many would agree that waste is a resource misplaced. This workshop will teach you where to put your organic waste by building an all-season vermicomposting system out of re-purposed household appliances. Learn to start, restart, manage and trouble shoot your healthy red-worm compost bin. Vermicomposting is perfect for homes, schools or the office. Presented by John Anderson – a.k.a. The “worm man,” who's been working exclusively with vermicomposting systems for the last 12 years.

Times & Cost:
Saturday 11:00 am
Each session is limited to sixteen participants
fee is $30 per workshop session

Saturday - Alternative Transportation and Renewable Energy Tent

11 AM - 12 PM No Workshops at this time

1 PM - 2 PM Finding The Future of Fuel
The biofuels industry has been under a lot of scrutiny lately. The fuel technology that was once touted as the "saving grace" for our American farmlands that will move us towards energy independence is in trouble. Now blamed for contributing to international deforestation, a rise in food prices and proliferating the spread of genetic modified organisms many critics ask how sustainable are biofuels? However, the question is not fully answered as the development of non-food based feedstocks and wonder plants such as algae move forward. Join us and investigate these questions and more with the Finding the Future of Fuel Panel.

3 PM - 4 PM Solar Electric Systems: Green Makes Green
Colorado is a leader in solar due to the voters passing Amendment 37 and the Governor & Legislature's added mandates. We will detail available rebates and tax credits, plus show you how your investment in solar makes money. The Goal: zero out your electricity bill and reduce your carbon emissions. Presented by Mark Simmons of Vibrant solar Inc. One of Mr. Simmons' primary tasks at Vibrant Solar is to educate homeowners, business owners, condo HOAs and others on the programs that make solar photovoltaic systems affordable. The locally-owner Vibrant Solar Inc is the second largest PV installer in the state of Colorado.

4 PM - 5 PM Solar Site Analysis
Learn the fundamentals of analyzing a site for Solar Energy. Topics include Solar radiation fundamentals, orientation, tilt angle, gathering site data and using a solar pathfinder to identify shading obstacles. Presented by Solar Energy International. SEI teaches individuals from all walks of life how to design, install and maintain renewable energy systems, and how to design and build efficient, sustainable homes. SEI offers trainings online and in 22 locations around the world.

Sunday - Alternative Transportation and Renewable Energy Tent

11 AM - 12 PM No Workshops at this time

1 PM - 2 PM Toyota Hybrid 101
With more than 1 million Toyota hybrids sold worldwide, Toyota is the world's leading manufacturer of eco-friendly, fuel-efficient vehicles. This workshop will highlight Toyota's hybrid vehicle line up of the Prius, Camry and Higlander hybrids, their positive impact on the environment and unprecedented fuel economy and performance. Presented by Ron Lewis of Pedersen Toyota.

3 PM - 4 PM Cleaner Fuels: Saving you Money
Hydrogen, natural gas, propane, ethanol, biodiesel and electricity are all available for less than the price of petroleum gas and diesel. See how they can cure all transportation needs and declare energy independence. Presented by Tai Robinson, President of Intergalactic Hydrogen. Tai made history in 2003 by driving his truck coast to coast leading Dennis Weaver's Drive to Survive using hydrogen for fuel. He has traveled the world giving presentations on the benefits of cleaner fuels to schools and universities.

4 PM - 5 PM Photovoltaics 202: Beyond the Basics
This is a "how to". Includes system sizing and design. Covers mounting considerations, equipment options and an understanding of laws, codes and standards. Also included are insights into financing and incentives for Coloradoans. Intended for people who have taken 101: Intro to PV (giving reasons why and PV physics). This workshop is presented by Rick Coen, Director of Engineering and founding member of Bella Energy

Saturday - Green Building Tent

11 AM - 12 PM The Passive Home
Buildings use nearly half of the energy consumed in this country. Personal and national energy security can be achieved combining local, natural and renewable materials with emerging technology to create a truly sustainable home. See local examples of super-insulated passive/active solar homes heated and cooled by the sun and Earth. Presented by Brian Fuentes. Architect Brian Fuentes' has designed homes across Colorado combining natural, local building materials such as straw bale walls with earthen plaster with the latest in green building technology including photovoltaic powered geothermal radiant heating and cooled homes, heat recovery ventilation and fresh air filtration, and structurally insulated panels roofs and insulated concrete form foundations. For more information, see www.fuentesdesign.com.

1 PM - 2 PM Natural Plasters
Natural plasters offer inspiring alternatives for finishing any type of wall surface. They can be a local, low embodied energy finish that contribute positively to indoor air quality and lend a warm depth to your home. Artesano is a traditional plastering company based in Boulder, Colorado. Our passion lies in using natural materials to create unique plaster finishes that are both timeless and beautiful.

3 PM - 4 PM Timber Framing in the West
Join Cory Tips, founder of High Plains Timber Frames, LLC and explore why timber framing is still one of the most beautiful, structurally sound, and sustainable building practices around today. Cover hybrid timber framing, Forest Stewardship Council and beetle kill wood, as well as timber framing history and design principles. At the end or the workshop, visit the High Plains Timber Framing booth where they've assembled a 13X13 foot garden cottage timber frame structure including wattle-and-daub infill. High Plains Timber framing is located in Fort Collins, where 90 percent of work is done in the shop before being shipped around the state for on-site assembly. This process results in no on-site waste.

4 PM - 5 PM No Workshops at this time

Sunday - Green Building Tent

11 AM - 12 PM Green, Sustainable Interiors
A dream "green" home can involve so much more than considerations around energy and water use. With the variety of beautiful and contemporary non-toxic, re-cycled and re-purposed interior building materials your home can reflect your low-impact living from the inside out. Presenters Debbie Hindman and Jill Bosshart from Associates III Interior Design are here to inspire you in the design, beauty and function of a fully sustainable home. At the forefront of the green design movement for over a decade and authors of Sustainable Residential Interiors, Associates III combines superb designs with a proven commitment to a sustainable design philosophy.

1 PM - 2 PM LEEDING the Way
The presentation will establish a fundamental understanding of green building and how it relates to the LEED™ Rating System. The presentation will include an overview of LEED processes, categories, and credit examples. The presentation will conclude with a focus on lighting design and how it relates to the green building. Brennan Schumacher is a principal and owner of Be Green Consultin™ (BGC) which he founded in 2004. BGC provides integrated lighting design services that maximize energy savings and create a high quality visual environment. BGC provides consulting and educational services in green building, LEED™ and sustainable design.

3 PM - 4 PM Another Man's Treasure
For fourteen years Uncle Benny has salvage and saved thousands of building materials and resources from the landfill creating a secondary market for consumers desiring a first rate product. Today, 80% of the materials they sell and trade from the store, including windows, door jams, plumbing and mill work are new products rejected by big box stores for minor reasons. Now with Benny Jr., a master carpenter, and other skilled staff Uncle Benny is helping Coloradoans choose sustainability though quality re-purposed materials.

4 PM - 5 PM Improving Comfort, Energy Efficiency and Air Quality in Existing Homes
Cold rooms? High utility bills? Icy windows? Learn more about the root causes for problems like these and where to turn for solutions that really address your needs. Ask questions about your home. Learn about newly available "home-performance contracting" services in Colorado. Presented by Doug Swartz. Doug has worked on many aspects of energy efficiency at Fort Collins Utilities for twenty-five years. This has included customer support, education for consumers and the building industry, program development and implementation, policy development, research and analysis - all in support of improved energy performance for Fort Collins homes and businesses.

Saturday - Lifestyles Tent

11 AM - 12 PM Budget, Saving, and Investing for a Sustainable Future
We vote with our dollars everyday. Do your savings and investment dollars do the same? How do you get there? Where are you now and how do you start? We'll answer these questions and find out how your investments can be socially, environmentally and economically successfully. Presented by Krista Strohoffer. Krista is a financial advisor specializing in sustainable and environment investing. Her clients interest include renewable energy, food and health safety, social equity and corporate ethics. In their pursuit of social, environment and economic success, Krista and her clients embrace the Triple Bottom Line of people, and planet, and profit.

1 PM - 2 PM Sustainability in Corporate America:Real Commitment or Just Greenwashing?
Just about every major corporation in America is "going green" as fast as they can, right? Are they REALLY...or is this just another PR exercise to try to secure a competitive advantage and lure more customers in a weak economy? If you think environmental and social considerations AREN'T fast becoming the key drivers of corporate strategy at America's most innovative and successful companies, this workshop might just surprise you!! Presented by Graham Russell, Executive Director, CORE

3 PM - 4 PM Twice the Satisfaction, Half the Resources
"We're overfed but undernourished" says Dave Wann. " We aren't meeting essential needs well, from nutrition and shelter through social connection, expression, and meaning." What we eat, where we live, and what we buy are all topics of discussion in this workshop about building natural immunity to over-consumption. Presented by Dave Wann, president of the Sustainable Future Society, a board member of the Cohousing Association of the U.S., and a fellow of the Simplicity forum. He co-designed the cohousing neighborhood where he's lived for twelve years. He's the author of Simple Prosperity, a sequel to the best seller Affluenza, now in nine languages. He's also produced 20 videos and TV documentaries.

4 PM - 5 PM Conscious Buying- Understanding how your Pocketbook affects Sustainability
You will discover in this session the link between consumption patterns and environmental degradation This session will provide you with 10 key questions to ask yourself before you purchase a product. We will cover key ‘green' terminology and what product labels mean. Utlimately, you will learn how to become a more conscious consumer. Presented by K.J McCorry. K.J. McCorry is the CEO of Officiency Enterprises. A company providing sustainable consulting services for homes and businesses. She has been avid environmentalist for over 25 years cultivating sustainability within her own personal life as well as professional.

Sunday - Lifestyles Tent

11 AM - 12 PM The Kalamazoo Promise: One Community's Story of How Universal Education Is Improving the Economy and Quality of Life
Three years ago at a board of education meeting in the city of Kalamazoo, Michigan, one of biggest miracles in modern public education was announced by Superintendent Janice Brown, all of the children of Kalamazoo Public Schools will attend college for free. Soon, the 'Kalamazoo Promise" was front page news of the Wall Street Journal, USA Today and The New York Times as the only program giving free tuition to all graduates and demonstrating how universal education can thrust an economy forward. The Promise, funded by a group of anonymous donors, is now replicated around the county by such programs as the Pittsburgh Promise and the Denver Scholars Program. This workshop is lead by Dr. Janice Brown, key architect in the creation of The Promise and now serves as its spokesperson and advocate for universal education.

1 PM - 2 PM What's Your Story? How to successfully brand and market your socially responsible organization
You know the story. Imagine if everyone else knew it, too, and believed in you as much as you do. What could you accomplish then?

Paul Jensen, owner and branding director of One Tribe Creative will discuss how to tell your story creatively, credibly, consistently, and most importantly, honestly, to win over supporters and skeptics alike.

For the past 8 years of a 23 year career branding national and international clients, Paul and One Tribe Creative has focused entirely on helping socially responsible companies to succeed. Some of these clients include BlueSun, Gardenburger, Bella Energy, Envirofit, Solix, and Colorado Carbon Fund.

3 PM - 4 PM Make Change with Every Dollar: Voting for Green Business in our Everyday
As consumers, we hold tremendous power in deciding the future of our economy and our planet. Join us for an interactive conversation on what to consider as a conscientious consumer in this growing green marketplace and how to reduce your personal impact. Presented by Sarah Wells and Mike Johnson, publishers of the ReDirect Guide, a sustainable living business directory and resource guide for the Front Range of Colorado. They work year round to promote the green economy as part of a long-term dedication to a more vibrant, healthy and sustainable future.

4 PM - 5 PM FutureShift – EcoArts Live!
See 10-minute plays co-created by Curious Theatre's New Voices program with climate change scientists and sustainability experts. Watch videos of nationally acclaimed Robert Moses Kin Dance Company and hear about their new eco-piece. Learn how EcoArts brings together science, environmental, and arts organizations to present cool events about our world. Marda Kirn directs EcoArts, a collaboration of organizations presenting performances, exhibits, talks, and tours to increase awareness about climate change and living sustainability. Curious Theatre (Denver) and Robert Moses Kin Dance Company (San Francisco) are award-winning companies known nationally for their artistic excellence and attention to provocative and meaningful themes.