Did you know that the materials you choose for landscaping—especially stone—can make a big impact on your project’s environmental footprint? For those looking for ways to make your landscaping more sustainable, we’re happy to share that buying local, natural stone is directly linked to environmental conservation and support for local communities.
Here’s how choosing local and natural stone makes a difference for your project and for the planet.
One of the biggest differences in sustainability comes down to how far natural stone needs to be transported to the project site. Due to its sheer weight and size, stone requires the use of heavy duty vehicles and therein extensive fuel consumption, leading to carbon emissions that contribute to wider climate change.
Locally sourced stone doesn’t need to be shipped long distances, which drastically reduces this fuel use and cuts down greenhouse gas emissions at scale. This is in contrast with imported stone, which often travels hundreds or thousands of miles by truck, ship, or train. At The Rock Garden, we proudly source our stone from our quarry that is only eight miles away in Laporte, Colorado! When you source your stone from our garden, you can keep your landscape as sustainable as it is beautiful.
Natural stone suppliers who operate locally are often more transparent and accountable for sustainable quarrying practices. This could not be more true with the team at The Rock Garden and our Willownook quarry—we’re proud to meet and even exceed Colorado’s environmental regulations through the Department of Natural Resources and Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety. This means we closely follow reclamation plans, implement erosion and sediment control measures, and always protect wildlife habitat.
Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that competitors in other states or even abroad care to the same degree, but by working with The Rock Garden, you can be confident that your project will support Colorado’s land, water, and wildlife.
Natural stone is one of the most durable, low-maintenance, and recyclable materials available for landscaping projects. Its long lifespan and durability means fewer resources used; a flagstone or boulder will outlast many other materials, saving you money and reducing waste.
Comparatively, manufactured materials such as concrete or brick pavers require more energy to produce. Manufactured products need significantly more raw materials that, again, need to be sourced and transported long distances, effectively multiplying the environmental impact. And for many of them, there is no guarantee that they can be recycled.
Finally, natural stone also brings the benefit of complementing the native environment. It matches the region’s colors, textures, and geology, and it creates harmony between built and natural spaces. This reduces the need for artificial finishes and imported materials, and it helps your project look timeless, saving you the need for upgrades for many years to come.
Just like you, we take pride in being a part of the Northern Colorado community. When you buy local, it keeps dollars circulating within our economy, which not only supports local jobs and small businesses but also is part of the tax base that contributes to conservation funds, so our state maintains its beauty for generations to come. When you choose local stone products, our community, natural spaces, and wildlife all benefit from it.
Local and natural stone saves energy, supports the local economy, and creates lasting, sustainable beauty. From boulders to flagstone and stone veneer, we’re proud to help Northern Colorado build responsibly. Ready to choose stone that’s better for your project and the planet? Visit The Rock Garden in Fort Collins or contact us today to explore our locally sourced, eco-friendly stone selection.