Boise Mayor Dave Bieter recently presented Cottonwood Grille the EnviroGuard Award for its green practices.

The Cottonwood Grille was recognized for its recycling program which has reduced weekly trash volume by 85 percent. Mayor Bieter cited the restaurant's use of fresh vegetables and ingredients, local game and cheeses, and partnerships with area butchers to ensure on-site quality as contributing factors in the reduction of packaging and long-distance shipping. In addition, Mayor Bieter applauded the restaurant's donation of leftover rice and vegetables to the Boise Rescue Mission three times a week.

Since 1998, the city has given the award to local businesses that champion forward-thinking approaches to energy and waste reduction and environmentally friendly workplace standards.