The Final Push has Begun!

Well, we are in the final push to get the new facility completed and the activity level has reached a fevered pitch. One of the most important features of the new building is the use and conservation of water. Through the help of Joel Reinders, we have installed a system that will allow us to collect nearly all of the rain water from the roof of the new building. This water will then be used to help clean the outdoor enclosures reducing our dependency on the well water. 

Near the front entrance to the building a small water feature will serve as an example of the types of water conservation methods similar to our facility-sized system in the back that can be implemented by the average homeowner.

Additionally, our parking lot, walkways and patio are all constructed out of permeable paving bricks. This system created with these bricks, rather than traditional asphalt, allows water to pass through the paving and is then absorbed directly back into the ground. This eliminates the need to create large retention ponds. It also allows us to create various natural habitats for wildlife of all sorts.

These special pavers will help to reduce the amount of contaminated runoff collecting outside the parking area. Special care must be taken to keep them in good shape year after year, but the environmental impact is worth the effort.

Considering the surrounding environment was very important for us when we planned and designed this building. In addition to the water conservation efforts outside, the building is efficient in a variety of other areas, from the special heating and cooling system to the rain collection program. When the center opens to the public later this summer, people will be able to see how we have incorporated these various efficiencies into the design. They also will be able to see how they too can benefit from these programs in their own homes.



Natural materials and efficient heating, cooling, and electrical systems were used as much as possible as you can see here in the nearly completed front office area.

We look forward to seeing you all at our new facility in the very near future! Watch for updates in the coming weeks when we announce our long-awaited final move-in date!

This week and the following, one of the biggest projects going on at the site is the preparation and laying of the permeable paver parking lot. This system allows the water to filter through the parking area more naturally and return back to the water table rather than collecting the dirt and debris and becoming run-off like it would on a traditional black-topped surface.

The exterior of the building is nearly completed.

We hope to be able to make an official move date annoucement in the next few weeks!