The Toro Company to Sponsor Two Cities in Audubon International's Sustainable Communities Program

Troy, NY, April 6, 2015 (Newswire.com) - As part of its long-standing partnership with environmental nonprofit Audubon International, The Toro Company has announced a new initiative to sponsor cities in the Sustainable Communities Program. Funding provided by Toro will advance sustainability efforts in two communities where the company has facilities: in Riverside, California and in Windom, Minnesota. Toro is the first in the world to fund membership in this certification program on a community’s behalf.

Judson McNeil, President of The Toro Foundation, said, “We believe that creating sustainable communities is good for people, for the environment, and for business. We are pleased to draw on Audubon International’s experience in creating comprehensive community sustainability initiatives, and we hope this will lead to both Riverside and Windom receiving the designation of Audubon International Certified Sustainable Communities.”

Audubon International’s community-wide improvement program engages residents, businesses, and municipal leaders in identifying low-cost strategies for practicing sustainability that safeguard the quality of life where they live and work, far into the future. The sponsorship provides qualified cities membership in the Sustainable Communities Program for two years, along with a grant for a demonstration site project in each community.

“Toro selected Riverside and Windom to demonstrate their commitment to improving the quality of life for people in these communities. We are excited to work directly with Toro and local Toro facilities to achieve bold sustainability goals for these communities,” said Joanna Nadeau, Director of Community Programs at Audubon International. “We are proud to welcome Riverside and Windom into the Sustainable Communities Program as the 14th and 15th cities working towards certification.”

About Audubon International

Audubon International is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) environmental organization providing people with the education and assistance they need to practice responsible management of land, water, wildlife, and other natural resources. To meet this mission, the organization provides training, services, and a set of award-winning environmental education and certification programs for individuals, organizations, properties, new developments, and entire communities. To find out more visit www.auduboninternational.org.

About The Toro Company

The Toro Company (NYSE: TTC) is a leading worldwide provider of innovative solutions for the outdoor environment including turf, snow and ground engaging equipment, and irrigation and outdoor lighting solutions. With sales of $2.2 billion in fiscal 2014, Toro’s global presence extends to more than 90 countries. Through constant innovation and caring relationships built on trust and integrity, Toro and its family of brands have built a legacy of excellence by helping customers care for golf courses, landscapes, sports fields, public green spaces, commercial and residential properties and agricultural fields. For more information, visit www.thetorocompany.com.