ATLANTA—May 29, 2007— Versant hosted Ron Dodson, president of Audubon International, during his visit last weekend to its master-planned mountaintop community being built adjacent to Asheville, N.C.

 

Dodson met with project leaders and laborers to discuss their roles in the development of a community that sustains the environment and nature by using Audubon’s 11 principles that allow nature and humans to live together in harmony.

 

A member of Audubon International’s Gold Signature Program—one of only 37 members worldwide—Versant is taking precautions to maintain the strictest level of land preservation before, during and after the development of the community. Versant is dedicated to following the 11 principles Audubon International recommends to maintain a peaceful coexistence between nature and man. Principles include managing storm water runoff at its source using best management practices, minimizing energy consumption, maintaining careful attention to the wildlife, and managing pests with the least possible hazard to people, property and the environment.

 

“Building for human beings and wildlife is the foundation of a sustainable development,” said Dodson.  “Audubon International is pleased to partner with Versant to create a place for people and the environment in a sustainable community.” 

 

Dodson toured the property and spoke with builders, developers and contractors about the best way to develop a world-class resort-style community and nature preserve.

 

“Quarterly visits from Audubon International resource and project managers are standard fare—and we will continue to have their guidance throughout the development process—but it is extraordinary that Ron himself came to visit the site,” said Charlotte Waldron, a certified community planner with Versant Properties LLC. “Our land supports healthy wildlife populations and assorted native plant species. Our commitment to the sustainable resource management principles championed by Audubon International is one way that we strive to protect these natural assets. ”

 

Designed as a European-inspired village with estate-sized home sites along the top of a mountain, just seven minutes from the city of Asheville, N.C., Versant will boast single-family homes, townhomes and condominiums.

 

The private community will feature a fresh market, an amphitheatre, an executive retreat center, a high-end restaurant, and a Wellness Center with a state-of-the-art fitness center and resort-style pool.

 

Throughout 400-plus acres there are spectacular panoramic views of Asheville and the North Carolina mountains, Versant offers expansive home sites ranging from .75 to 2+ acres. Estate sites range from $250,000 to $1.2 million. Townhomes and condos will range from $450,000 to $2 million. 

 

For more information, visit www.VERSANTasheville.com or phone 828-645-8660.