OARS Goes Solar
In an effort to become increasingly energy responsible, last year Northern California-based O.A.R.S. (Outdoor Adventure River Specialists) made the decision to go 100 percent solar for its warehouse and main office operations in Angels Camp, California, and for its warehouse and office in Flagstaff, Arizona, which coordinates Colorado River operations in the Grand Canyon. These two new systems are expected to generate over 123,000 KWH of electricity their first year and every year thereafter -- enough to keep 8 medium-sized houses supplied with electricity for an entire year. This will result in a reduction of approximately 180,000 lbs -- over 90 tons of greenhouse gases (mainly carbon dioxide) per year.
In its continuing sustainability efforts, O.A.R.S. plans to double its electricity-generating capability this year by installing solar energy at its warehouses and offices in Lewiston, Idaho, for the four rivers it runs in the state; in Jackson, Wyoming, for its operations in Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks; and in Vernal, Utah, for its operations in Dinosaur National Monument.
The first rafting company in the U.S. to offset all of its carbon emissions, O.A.R.S. is in its third year of working with NativeEnergy; last year the company purchased approximately 613 tons of carbon offsets, providing the same global warming offset impact as keeping over 100 average cars off the road for an entire year.
Last year the adventure travel outfitter also swapped the motors on its Jackson Lake gear boats for new four-stroke engines, reducing fuel consumption significantly. O.A.R.S. provides on-site employee housing in most destinations, sparing guides and staff from potentially lengthy, carbon-emitting commutes. Additionally, more than 20% of the fuel used in the company’s Grand Canyon gear vehicles is now bio-diesel.
“The last few years have represented a period of change in our country, an awakening to the significance of sustainability, where 'being green' is not only cool, it’s expected,” George Wendt, president and founder, said. “At O.A.R.S., we’re thrilled to see such progressive movement, but then again, conservation is the foundation of our company and the lifeblood of our future, so let’s hope that “being green” isn’t just a fad; let’s hope it’s here to stay.”
