SASD has been a leading force in bringing substainable energy to Sullivan County, and the surrounding region. It has tirelessly worked to improve the environment in multiple directions.
Dick Riseling, Executive Director, has worked in the government, with the government and for the people over many years.
He has brought public awareness and then involvement in improving the environment, collectively and individually.
Solar Energy, wind power, straw bale building.....
SASD classes on weatherization and availabilty for help...
How to apply for grants for value added products or for energy efficiency, or for renewable energy...
SASD is our source for help.
It is preesently working with local farmers for SARE grants, the Sullivan County Farm Network, and more.
I personally want to thank Dick and Sonja for all the help and advice they have given me in starting my sustainable project and new value added business in Sullivan County.
Frederick Goldberg Architect
Royal T Energy
Royal T Distillery
Royal T Ranch
In 2009, in recognition of its leadership and activism in promoting renewable energy and sustainable development, Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) presented the Sullivan Alliance for Sustainable Development (SASD) with a 2009 Environmental Quality Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Mr. Hinchey remarked that it was going to take strong leadership on the ground locally in order to move our country forward with a green and renewable energy-based economy. As a founding member of SASD, I can attest to the fact that from its inception, SASD has embraced the growing potential of green business and clean energy. And, I believe its fair to say that it was SASD and its tireless Executive Director, Dick Riseling, that prompted the Sullivan County (NY) Legislature to pursue green business.
Now, as a consultant to the County on sustainable development, SASD has been instrumental in working with elected leaders, businesses, farmers and the public to encourage and foster a greener and prosperous future for Sullivan County. As Congressman Hinchey is on record saying, SASD’s leadership and vision in promoting "green-collar" jobs, solar and wind energy, increased energy efficiency, and environmental stewardship has helped to build a broad consensus that the County's future should be a sustainable one.
Since its inception in 2005, SASD has been, a strong counter to those economic development agencies that have put the promise of "jobs and revenue"ahead of preservation of the County's natural resources
and, therefore, its residents' quality of life.
Though Sullivan County is a place of economic struggle today, historically, its natural beauty has always been its greatest asset.
SASD understands that concept well.
Some examples of SASD's work:
1. Energy Conservations and Renewable Energy Consultant to Sullivan County
2. 2011 marks the 6th year of SASD monthly Energy Conservation and Renewable Energy workshops (open to the public).
3. SASD developed the the County's Weatherization and Energy Efficency Project, known as SWEEP--and facilitates installations for towns, businesses and homeowners.
4. SASD secured $866,000 in PV grants for 8 high schools, 6 colleges, & 5 dairy farms,
5. SASD has provided extensive renewable energy training via phone & email to the general public, as well as municipalities.
6. SASD also works collaboratvely with FarmHeart and Sullivan County's farmers network.
I am continually amazed by the success of this organization as a pioneer in its field. Under the leadership of Executive Director Dick Riesling, the organization has grown from a fledgling group advocating for change to a force to be reckoned with on a regional level and a shining example of the value of a non-profit group to shift public thinking.
I became familiar with the group through other non-profit associations (I'm the board chair of the County's Chamber of Commerce currently) and was honored to be asked to be a member of the board for SASD.
I highly recommend this group for an internship from anyone who is interested in sustainable development, green construction, or a host of other related fields.