Wetland Discovery Point

        Construction began in the Spring of 2008!

        To view photos of the construction progress, click here

                  To view recent articles, click here and here

Wetland Discovery Point will be a year-round indoor and outdoor classroom providing a stimulating and dynamic learning environment. It will be a self- sustaining structure, providing leadership through example in environmental stewardship.

Highlights include:

  • The 3,200 ft2 facility will greatly enhance fieldtrip experiences, providing a flexible classroom for up to 60 school children where they can learn about environmental ethics, water and energy conservation, birds, fish and wildlife, insects, air quality, storm water, and the role of wetlands in environmental protection and enhancement.
  • The building will comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA, and it will also provide an extensive boardwalk, a group staging area, restrooms, storage, and mechanical spaces. The estimated cost is $1,600,000.
  • Wetland Discovery Point will qualify for a LEED Platinum certification, the highest certification attainable from the U.S. Green Building Council. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. Currently, there are only 15-20 LEED Platinum buildings in the United States.
  • The building is uniquely located both on land and over the pond, maximizing education opportunities.

  • Efficiency in heating and cooling will be maximized through the use of a ground-source field well system that captures the ambient temperature of the earth (approximately 55 degrees F).
  • The facility incorporates a significant amount of natural daylighting.  In addition to reducing energy costs, it is visually engaging and provides the visitor strong connection to the natural environment.
  • The building includes a rainwater collection system – harvestingprecipitation and storing it in a cistern. This grey water will be used for landscape irrigation and flushing of public toilets.
  • The building will incorporate solar energy panels to power 100% of the annual electrical needs.
  • Landscaping will be 100% Xeriscape using native plants.