The Education Center is the focal point of the Conservation Garden Park. The purpose of the building is to be a regional learning facility where a wide range of groups can go to learn principles of
water conservation and sustainability.
The building was designed utilizing the highest LEED standards in order to
achieve platinum level. (LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a voluntary, consensus-based national standard for developing high-performance, sustainable buildings. The standard is set by the United States Green Building Council. A
building utilizing LEED principles meets standards for sustainable site development, water and energy conservation, material selection, and indoor environmental quality).
The project also includes a new entrance to the Conservation Garden Park, signage, a bridge across the stream, and a new parking area. Learn about some of the landscape features on the Education Center Landscape page.
Rent the Education Center
To arrange or to receive more information about renting the Education Center, go to the contact page and select "Rent the Education Center" as the subject or call 801-565-4300.
Building Features
- Rammed Earth Wall – a large 2-foot thick earthen wall designed to capture and radiate warmth from the sun in winter, yet provide an insulating, cooling effect in summer.
- Biofilters – storm runoff from hard surfaces will be channeled through a series of natural plant and gravel “filters” before emptying into the stream below.
- Photovoltaic Roof Panels – provided by a grant through the Rocky Mountain Power
Blue Sky Rewards Program, these solar panels will provide up to 20% of the electrical load of the building.
- Energy Monitoring Exhibit – a large flat-screen in the lobby will show visitors in real time exactly how much energy is being used by the building compared to a conventional building.
- Permeable Concrete – parking stalls will be made with concrete capable of allowing water to pass through into the soil beneath.
- Greenhouse – built onto the south side of the building, this feature will accommodate plant research and overwintering of warm-weather plants.
- Classrooms – three classrooms divided by moveable partitions can be opened up into one large room capable of seating approximately
176 people.
- Main Plaza – after passing through the building lobby, visitors will enter the main plaza to begin their garden experience.
- Water-conserving Plumbing Fixtures – restrooms will feature different models of high efficiency toilets.
- Efficient Heating and Cooling – groundwater, which is at a near constant temperature, will be used by heating and cooling equipment to offset temperature extremes.
- Natural Lighting – glass will be the predominant feature of the building allowing natural light to penetrate almost every room.
- Catering Kitchen – strategically located for easy access during conferences or events.
- Courtyards – secluded areas on the east side of the building can be used for private functions or opened up for easy access to the classrooms and main plaza.
- Resource Center – this help-yourself learning center will offer computer stations, comfortable chairs, books and periodicals.
- Staff Wing – a nearly separated section of the building will provide office space, conference areas, and facilities for docents.