Alaska Conservation Solutions

Recycling

Valley Community for Recycling Solutions (VCRS) is a non-profit organization devoted to establishing recycling as a part of daily life in the Mat-Su Valley region of Alaska. Since 1998, VCRS has recovered and recycled tons of common household materials, and advocated for waste reduction and recycling best management practices in the Matanuska Susitna Borough. 

Energy Efficiency

Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC) offers financial assistance to help Alaskans reduce their energy bills and make their homes more energy efficient. For more information on current programs in the Mat-Su Valley, visit the AHFC website or call The Home Energy Rebate & Weatherization Hotline at 1.877.325.2508.

Renewable Energy

Produce your own, clean energy and live off the grid!

Alaska Energy Authority's "Renewable Energy Atlas of Alaska" shows potential renewable energy resources all over the state. Order a free copy by contacting Renewable Energy Alaska Project (REAP) at 907.929.7770  or download a version here.

Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) has also prepared Wind Resource Summaries for three Palmer locations: Met Tower (VCRS), Met Tower (UAF Extension), and the Municipal Airport.

If you are thinking about solar power, check out this table showing the average hours of daylight by month in Wasilla. 

Alaska Sun is a coalition of solar businesses, academics, and interested individuals working toward a renewable energy future for Alaska. Established in May 2001, its funding originally came through the National Million Solar Roofs Coalition monies from the U.S. Department of Energy. Its site is now maintained by UAF's Cooperative Extension Service and is dedicated to promoting renewable energy for Alaska.

ABS Alaskan, Inc. maintains a site that discusses renewable energy options, remote power products, tax credits and intertie incentives throughout Alaska.

Transportation  

Ride the bus! The schedule is available on the MASCOT website. MASCOT can also schedule pick-ups 24 hours in advance for out-of-the way places. Call for more information: 907.376.5000.

Carpool and enjoy riding to work with others! Visit the Share a Ride website for basic info.

More Information

Climate, global warming, and daylight charts and data for several locations in the Mat-Su Valley in 2007 are available here. 

Alaska Youth for Environmental Action (AYEA) has a Mat Su chapter.