PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. (June 25, 2010) – Huntingtown bed & breakfast owners, Jenna and Bob Licurgo, know a thing or two about reducing, recycling and reusing. Over the course of a decade, the beautiful property they now operate as a business was lovingly restored and repurposed from an aging farmhouse to a homey retreat for weary travelers and a welcomed respite for visitors seeking a touch of country charm.
In a nod to their dedication to being environmentally conscious and eco-friendly, the Licurgos recently received certification from the Maryland Office of Tourism for being the first Maryland Green Travel (MGT) partner in Calvert County.
MGT is an initiative of Governor Martin O’Malley’s Smart, Green & Growing program which encourages the Maryland tourism industry to follow environmentally friendly practices and promote Maryland as a “green” destination to travelers.
MGT is a voluntary initiative that designates and recognizes lodging facilities that make a commitment to conserve and protect Maryland’s natural resources. The program’s environmental guidelines, developed in conjunction with the Maryland Hotel & Lodging Association using the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s Guidelines for Going Green, allow the hospitality industry to evaluate operations, set goals and take specific actions to continuously improve environmental performance.
The Licurgos jumped at the opportunity to certify their facility. “There are a number of core requirements that we were required to meet before we could be certified,” said Jenna. “These requirements included things like recycling waste, using water efficiently, having an environmental policy statement and opting for energy-efficient alternatives. We propose taking our conservation initiatives a step further by ‘living in the past’, so to speak. Our grandparents practiced simple things like line-drying laundry, using washable linen napkins and composting food scraps. It just makes sense; not only do these practices allow us to reduce our footprint on the environment, but they also help us save money and resources. Plus, I believe our guests feel good knowing that the place they are staying strives to protect, preserve, and be respectful of the environment that we all share.”
To join MGT, participants must first self-certify that they are practicing certain basic environmental activities relative to their industry sector. Additionally, they must commit to improving their environmental practices over time and report annually on their progress.
For more information about Open Gates Farm Bed & Breakfast, visit online at www.opengatesfarm.com, e-mail OpenGatesFarmBB@msn.com or call 301.812.0209.
For more information about Maryland Green Travel, visit online at www.visitmaryland.org/green.