STOWE LAND TRUST PARTNERS WITH TOPNOTCH RESORT

October 6, 2011 (Stowe, Vt.) – Stowe Land Trustand Topnotch Resort and Spa, a premier hotel owned by MetWest Ventures, LLC, are working together on an innovative partnership designed to conserve the community’s natural and cultural landscapes.  This partnership is unprecedented for both organizations and demonstrates the value of integrating conservation action and corporate philanthropy.

“We believe Topnotch is setting a terrific precedent by being the first resort in the greater Stowe region to partner in this way with a conservation organization,” said Heather Furman, Executive Director of Stowe Land Trust.  “We are so grateful to Topnotch for launching this exciting partnership and to their guests for their contribution to our conservation work in the community. We couldn’t be more pleased by Topnotch’s commitment to conservation and the partnership it has forged that will help our region’s tourism economy while at the same time preserving our community’s quality of life,” said Furman.

The innovative partnership encourages hotel guests to participate in conservation and stewardship of the land through a $1 nightly donation per room, supplemented with an additional $1 nightly donation by the hotel, which goes to the Stowe Land Trust, an organization dedicated to the conservation of scenic, recreational, and productive farm and forest lands for the benefit of the greater Stowe community. Guests can have the fee removed if they choose.

“This program is a symbol of our long-term commitment to Stowe, the community and the local environment. On behalf of all the staff at Topnotch Resort & Spa, we’re very proud to be working with the Stowe Land Trust to support conservation and economic growth in the area” said Jamie Yarrow, President of MetWest Terra Hospitality.

Stowe’s spectacular scenery, unique recreational resources, working farms and magnificent mountains are part of what makes this town truly unique.  The beautiful landscape is one of the reasons many people visit and return to Stowe.  For nearly 25 years, Stowe Land Trust has been working with willing landowners to protect important natural and cultural resources that contribute to the health and vitality of the community. 

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About Topnotch Resort

Topnotch Resort and Spa is a premier New England destination offering endless recreational pursuits in a luxurious atmosphere. Located on 120 acres near the village of Stowe, the resort offers 68 guest rooms and suites dressed in a European Country Manor style, with contemporary amenities and views of the Green Mountains. Topnotch also has a selection of 23 luxurious two- and three-bedroom resort homes. Norma's Restaurant serves contemporary cuisine in a casual setting, with an inviting open kitchen.  The Topnotch Spa covers 35,000 square feet, including 30 treatment rooms in which to experience more than 120 treatments and services. For sports and leisure, the resort features a premier Tennis Center with indoor and outdoor courts, cross-country and downhill skiing, a state-of-the-art Fitness Center, an indoor pool with a cascading massage waterfall, a whirlpool/Jacuzzi, and two mountain-view outdoor pools - one of which is heated year-round. Located at the foot of Mount Mansfield, Topnotch is a premier destination for all seasons.  Pets are welcome in select guest rooms and suites at the resort. Topnotch Resort and Spa is part of MetWest Terra Hospitality and is a member of Preferred Boutique and Preferred Pride. http://www.topnotchresort.com.   

CONTACT:     Rebecca Washburn, Assistant Director, Stowe Land Trust; 802/253-7221  becca@stowelandtrust.org