The Cathance River Ecology Center has stood on the Cathance River Preserve for more than 15 years as a beacon of sustainability. It is known as “the building that teaches”, a testament to its educational focus and power to teach any who visit. Even without the amazing staff members that help educate local students on what lays beyond school doors, the building teaches guests valuable lessons on sustainability and environmental stewardship. Everything about the Ecology Center was built with the environment in mind, from the sustainable wood in its walls to the green electricity powering its lights. Look through the gallery below to discover all of the green features found in the Ecology Center!
The frame of the Ecology Center, made from a repurposed old barn!
In addition to the repurposed frame, the outer paneling is Forest Sustainability Council certified lumber.
A look at the insulation inside the walls, which is 100% recycled cotton fiber.
A helpful hand enjoying the comfort of the recycled insulation.
Fun fact, the recycled cotton insulation is made of 85% recycled blue jeans!
This image shows another green feature, the Marvin Energy Star certified windows!
These bags of American clay were used to plaster the inner walls.
This plaster is another sustainable feature: non-toxic and breathable clay!
The safe and breathable plaster being applied to inner walls.
The sealants used inside are also green, containing the lowest concentration of volatile organic compounds available on the market.
Multiple rain collecters connect to gutters, providing a source of non-potable water and reducing building runoff.
Solar panels provide the facility’s electricity, facing south to maximize energy potential.
After the roof was redone, the solar panels were re-constructed better than ever!
The other source of electricity for the Center, a windmill on the roof.
A peek at the batteries which power the building, allowing for it to be entirely off-grid!
A thermal blanket, used to absorb the sun’s rays and spread the warmth throughout the building.
The wood pellet stove in the corner is another source of sustainable heat.
The Center uses compact fluorescent lights, a sustainable way to keep the building bright.
These chairs are made from recycled plastics.
Some guests sitting around a table made from reclaimed lumber.
The finished Ecology Center, featuring a front ramp with materials made from recycled grocery bags and waste wood!
