Our Story
A group from Central Texas, led by Stephen Colley, decided to form the Earthen Construction Initiative after attending EarthUSA 2015 in Santa Fe, New Mexico. This group envisioned an organization that would be a resource to designers, builders, government agencies, and anyone interested in accurate, science-based information on a range of earthen construction technologies.
Pictured from left to right: Michael Donoghue, Stephen Colley, Lauran Drown, Celia Mendoza, Beverly Donoghue, and Jim Hallock.
What's next?
ECI was established as a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization effective February 24, 2016.
ECI is dedicated to advancing the appreciation and science of earthen construction through monthly presentations / demos, guest lectures, workshops, and research. Our recent successes and current initiatives include:
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City of San Antonio code amendments to address earthen construction;
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Development of testing standards and best practices;
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Research on hygrothermal effects on interior air quality.​
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We also sponsor and support the following organizations and events:
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EarthUSA biennial conference, Santa Fe, New Mexico
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Solar Fest, San Antonio, Texas
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The Earthbuilders Guild, New Mexico
Moving forward, ECI is developing workshops geared both to families and to construction professionals, and accelerating our research program. Make sure to check our Events page for our latest announcements!
Board of Directors
Stephen Colley
President
Lauran Drown
Susan Everidge
Vice President
Treasurer
Ron Evans
Board Member
Ben Loescher
Board Member
Roberto Treviño
Board Member
Committees
ECI's volunteer committees are crucial in helping to advance our mission and vision.
Technical
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Conduct research on earthen materials, assemblies, and structures
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Recommend code modifications for safe, durable earthen construction
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Education
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Plan and conduct presentations and hands-on workshops for a variety of audiences
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Plan and conduct hands-on workshops for a variety of audiences
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Develop and conduct online courses
Outreach
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Develop, maintain, monitor, and refine social media, including website
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Handle media relations
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Coordinate outreach campaigns
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Run speaker's bureau
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​Fundraising / Board Development
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Plan fundraising events and activities
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Develop grant proposals and applications
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Solicit sponsors for projects
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Recruit new board members and donors
