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!

Spring is in the air

The central hallway is now mostly framed in; soon walls will be up and it will start to become a real building!

As we advanced our clocks ahead this past weekend, I know that spring is just around the corner. The only problem is that it sure doesn't feel or look much like spring right now. From the pictures I’ve added you can see some progress, but the real progress is in what you can’t see. First off, all the plumbing is in place and the electrical work will begin this week. The heating and cooling is going in as evidenced by all the duct work throughout the building as well. We now have a completed roof, and even the garage and flight enclosure are being finished up. Soon we will be knocking down the wall between the existing building and the new facility. This portion was waited on so that we could ensure the least amount of heat-loss possible. The good news; we are still targeting a mid May completion date. This will mean that we are planning our move for the first part of June. As long as the weather holds, and barring any unforeseen set-backs we should be able to stay on schedule. The next big step; walls!!!!

The front office will have space for all of our office staff as well as a reception and volunteer area.

The flight area is getting its roof! The area will be flexible allowing us the ability to split it into smaller areas for less flighted or smaller birds or open up all the areas for one long flight corridor.

The other good news is that we are nearing completion of our capital campaign goal! If you can help we would love to count you as part of our "flock." Visit our website or contact the Center for more information.