Resources

Resources

The Town of Vail is committed to educating local residents and businesses about the challenges of protecting Gore Creek’s delicate eco-system. Part of this involves sharing resources and information about the issues, risks, and steps that members of our community can take to help Restore the Gore. The downloadable educational materials below offer a great starting point for anyone ready to learn more and learn what they can do to contribute.


In 2017, Vail was designated as the first sustainable mountain  resort destination in the world and first certified sustainable destination in the United States. With a tourism driven economy, it is critical to balance tourism growth with environmental and community needs. Earning this certification was a collaborative community effort and is a testament to the Vail Valley’s commitment to environmental conservation.

Click here to learn more about Vail’s journey to become a sustainable destination.

  • Partner Links

    Attracting Beneficial Insects

    When gardeners requested more information on
    beneficial insects, we asked expert Richard Merrill
    to write this guide. Richard is Professor Emeritus
    and former Director of the Horticulture Department
    at Cabrillo Community College in Santa Cruz,
    California. He has done extensive research on
    beneficials and their relationship to garden ecology.

    Downloadable Materials

    Best Native Grasses for Eagle County

    Learn what native grasses are best suited to the growing conditions in your yard.

    Partner Links

    Biology and Management of Pine Needle Scale – Michigan State University

    Learn about the threats that pine needle scale poses to your trees, how best to manage needle scale, and why pesticides may not be the most effective treatment.

    Downloadable Materials

    Riparian Zone Plant List

    Learn what native plants the Town of Vail recommends for areas along the creek.

    Downloadable Materials

    Native Herbaceous Perennials for Colorado Landscapes

    Learn about the enormous variety of native Colorado perennials that are both attractive and well-suited to Eagle County.

    Downloadable Materials

    Native Shrubs for Colorado Landscapes

    Learn about the variety of Colorado native shrubs that are adapted to the mountain environment.

    Downloadable Materials

    Native Trees for Colorado Landscapes

    Learn about native Colorado trees that are both attractive and well-adapted to the mountain environment.

    Downloadable Materials

    Xeriscaping: Creative Landscaping

    Learn about the concept of xeriscaping; landscaping to minimize irrigation and water use.

  • Partner Links

    Biology and Management of Pine Needle Scale – Michigan State University

    Learn about the threats that pine needle scale poses to your trees, how best to manage needle scale, and why pesticides may not be the most effective treatment.