Transforming Landscapes Through Education—Our Mission and Vision
Founded by Colorado's leading landscape professionals, Harnetolvexian RidgeGrove Academy bridges the gap between traditional horticulture education and modern sustainable practices through innovative online learning. Our mission is to empower individuals to create and maintain resilient, beautiful landscapes that thrive in harmony with nature.
We envision a world where every landscape contributes to ecological health and community well-being, guided by practitioners educated in science-backed, sustainable methods. Our core values—accessibility, expertise, and environmental responsibility—drive every course we offer and every connection we make.
Meet Our Expert Leadership Team
Elara Vance, PhD
Co-founder & Horticultural Director
Dr. Vance brings over 25 years of experience in high-altitude horticulture and ecological restoration. Her research on native Colorado plant resilience forms the foundation of our curriculum.
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Kaleb Thorne, MLA, ASLA
Co-founder & Chief Design Architect
With a Master's in Landscape Architecture, Kaleb specializes in sustainable site design and erosion control. He pioneered many of the digital design tools integrated into our courses.
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Sarah Chen, Certified Arborist
Lead Course Instructor
Sarah brings practical, hands-on experience from managing large-scale landscape projects across Colorado, focusing on urban ecology and climate-resilient plantings.
View CredentialsOur Journey—From Local Expertise to Global Impact
2008: Founding in Denver
Harnetolvexian RidgeGrove Academy began as a series of local workshops, sharing Colorado-specific landscaping insights to a small but dedicated community.
2012: First Online Modules
Responding to growing demand, we launched our first digital modules, making our expertise accessible beyond the Front Range.
2016: Ecosystem Design Specialization
Introduction of our comprehensive backyard ecosystem creation and native plant selection programs, attracting students globally.
2019: Partnership with American Ecological Society
Formalized academic partnerships bolstering our research-backed curriculum and industry recognition.
2023: Over 2,500 Graduates
Celebrating a significant milestone, our community of certified sustainable landscape practitioners continues to expand, making a tangible environmental impact worldwide.
Our Teaching Philosophy—Practical Learning for Real-World Impact
At Harnetolvexian RidgeGrove Academy, we believe that true learning blossoms from practical application. Our philosophy is rooted in five core principles that ensure our graduates are not just knowledgeable, but also capable of creating significant, positive change:
- Hands-On, Science-Backed: We combine rigorous scientific principles with actionable, real-world techniques. Our courses aren't just theoretical; they equip you with the skills to design, install, and maintain sustainable landscapes.
- Environmental Stewardship First: Every lesson emphasizes eco-friendly practices, focusing on water conservation, native plant biodiversity, and long-term ecological balance.
- Personalized & Adaptive Learning: Our online platform allows for flexible learning paths, accommodating diverse styles and schedules, ensuring mastery for every student.
- Collaborative Community: Beyond lectures, we foster a vibrant online community where students and instructors share insights, collaborate on projects, and build professional networks.
- Continual Evolution: The field of sustainable landscaping is dynamic. Our curriculum is constantly updated with the latest research, technologies, and industry best practices.
Measuring Our Impact—Students, Projects, and Environmental Benefits
Our success is measured by the tangible improvements our graduates bring to landscapes and communities worldwide. Here's a glimpse of the impact we've made:
2,500+
Graduates Empowered
Our alumni are creating sustainable landscapes in diverse climates across 40+ countries.
1,500+
Eco-Conscious Projects
From urban gardens to vast rangelands, our graduates have implemented thousands of sustainable designs.
Millions of Gallons
Water Saved Annually
Through drought-tolerant landscaping and efficient irrigation, our methods contribute to significant water conservation.
Biodiversity Boost
Native Habitats Restored
Promoting native plants has led to thriving ecosystems, supporting local wildlife and pollinators.
Strong Partnerships
Community & Industry Collaborations
Working with non-profits and government agencies to extend our reach and impact.
Leading Research
Continuous Curriculum Advancement
Our advisory board ensures our content remains at the forefront of horticultural science.