Sustainable Stormwater Relief

CHALLENGE:The Ridges Sanctuary, Wisconsin’s first land trust, was founded in 1937 to conserve the original 40-acre parcel and today protects 1600 acres of one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the state. It conserves critical wildlife habitat and diverse ecosystems, protects natural landmarks and scenic landscapes, and facilitates important research initiatives essential to the future of the Sanctuary and Door County. Design choices that encourage land preservation and conservation were of utmost importance to Door County’s 7400-sq.-ft. Ridges Sanctuary nature preserve center, which must serve as an exemplary example to the community—both homeowners and businesses—of how sustainable and low-environmental impact materials can be included in buildings. INFLUENCE:Protecting the Lake Michigan watershed was a primary concern at this facility’s location: on the northeast shores of the Door County Peninsula along the western shore of Lake Michigan. The porous pavement system was an important part of the overall plan to protect the waters against stormwater runoff on water quality. SOLUTION:Presto Geosystems’ GEOPAVE porous pavements were used, along with other environmental and sustainable products, to support The Ridges Sanctuary’s pursuit of a LEED Platinum rating. With certification expected by year-end, this facility will be the first LEED-certified commercial building in Wisconsin’s Door County. In addition to the GEOPAVE aggregate system delivering highly porous parking and walkways around the facility, other green design features incorporated include high-performance and low-energy materials such as insulation, lighting, heating and cooling, water use, and a multitude of recycled materials. The GEOPAVE system, infilled with highly porous stone, allows water infiltration and acts as a natural, on-site stormwater retention system, storing stormwater in its aggregate base after rain events and allowing for natural percolation. Unlike hard pavements that shed water from the surface, the GEOPAVE system with its permeable infill accepts water, significantly reducing runoff into the surrounding sensitive areas. null