Richmond Area Business Association

Through a new solar orchard, the nationally renowned VYCC will soon derive the power for its conservation, education, and agricultural programs from the sun. By installing these panels, the VYCC will also connect two iconic monitor barns in a contemporary way.

The statewide training and education organization headquartered in the West Monitor Barn, VYCC has been developing an agricultural program for the past four years.

This installation is one more piece in the on-going commitment to revitalize the agriculture and economic contributions of this historic property. In the coming years, the Corps expects to bring the east farmstead back to life, developing the barns for leadership programs that will compliment the VYCC's broad array of programs.

VYCC President Thomas Hark says, "The Monitor Barns and the surrounding land are the epitome of Vermont's working landscape over the first half of the twentieth century and are coming back to life as regional economic engines. After years of decline, this traditional working landscape will thrive again by embracing a 21st Century economy."

One hundred years ago the Monitor Barns in Richmond were a significant part of the regional economy. However, starting in the late 1930's the farm and the barns began a slow deterioration to the point that, in 2000, a strong wind could have toppled the West Barn. Fortunately, in 2005, the VYCC, successfully restored the West Barn which now serves as the VYCC's statewide headquarters.

In 2008, then VYCC purchased the East Monitor Barn and accompanying 165 acres. The Corps has raised funds to pay more than half of the existing $600,000 mortgage following the receipt of a recent $300,000 challenge grant.

Fourteen solar trackers, manufactured just up the road in Williston, will soon begin producing 84,000 kWh annually. This energy will supply the electric needs at the VYCC with excess going to local schools, providing one more piece of Chittenden East district's goal to become as energy self-sufficient as possible.

Chittenden East Superintendent John Alberghini says, "We couldn't be more thrilled. Not only will this project cut costs, it will potentially be a valuable part of our curriculum." As Vermont and national electric rates continue to rise, locking in energy costs at today's rates will become a better and better deal for our schools as each year passes.

"It is our expectation that the public will be able to get up close and see how these trackers work. Learn about solar in an up close and proactive way so that Vermont as a whole can have an even more intelligent conversation about our energy future. The more literate we are as a community the better decisions we will be able to make about our future." added Hark.

The VYCC will be switching the power on at its Annual Meeting and celebration -- Denim & Diamonds -- on Saturday, September 24th.

For tickets please call Cailie Burns at 434-3969 x113.