High Plains Environmental Center (Master Silo)

With the goal to sustain balance within the environment, McWhinney partnered with Mcstain Enterprises in 2001, and the result has been a lasting point of pride for the Centerra community. The outcome of this unique partnership was the High Plains Environmental Center (HPEC), a non-profit organization that manages more than 275-acres of lakes, wetlands and open space.

This organization contributes to Centerra’s one-of-a-kind community culture by promoting environmental stewardship and education, while maintaining balance between both man-made and natural environments. It elevates the natural environment surrounding the Loveland, CO, homes within the Centerra community, and its biodiversity is celebrated across the region.

HPEC’s key focuses are protecting the wetlands of Houts Reservoir and Equalizer Lake, managing the native grass open spaces and the drainage and detention areas throughout Centerra, offering education programs to the northern Colorado community and supporting local developers and consultants with sustainable design. Additionally, HPEC has maintained a 4-acre garden that produces 45,000 lbs. of food annually for the local foodbank.

HPEC is an integral part of Centerra, and allows residents to actively participate in the community through a variety of engaging programs. For new Loveland and Centerra homeowners, the HPEC is an excellent gateway to greater community involvement.

Beginning in March 2015, HPEC will be hosting weekly gardening and land stewardship volunteer projects every Saturday from 9:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. Residents and community members alike are encouraged to attend and meet new neighbors and friends, learn about the northern Colorado ecosystem and help Centerra flourish! Later in the spring, HPEC will also host Loveland’s annual waterways cleanup and its Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado (VOC) project.

Another great HPEC event to mark your calendars for is on May 16. To kick off the new growing season, HPEC will host the Huge Native Plant Sale at its new location. People will have the chance to purchase plants grown in the HPEC nursery, watch engaging sustainable living demonstrations, and enjoy local food, live music and environmental activities for kids.

For details about the High Plains Environmental Center, or to learn how you can get involved, visit http://suburbitat.org. If you’re interested in finding out more aboutLoveland CO homes at The Lakes at Centerra, schedule a tour and experience the rewarding proximity to nature for yourself.

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