The nature centers are design to be fully functional, sustainable and energy efficient while minimizing the disturbance to the natural landscape and maximizing the design compatibility with the natural surroundings. Several other factors taken into consideration included the preservation of wildlife corridors, the need to avoid disturbing natural undeveloped land, and the possibility of utilizing a site which already had been previously disturbed.
The nature center's amphitheaters, patios and classrooms may be rented for corporate events, scout meetings, family gatherings, and a myriad of other functions. For information about capacity levels and fees, contact the park supervisor directly.
This nature center contains an entry pathway that welcomes visitors into the park and encourages them to venture into their natural surroundings. Some of the green features include:
- The walls, glass, and the roof are all designed, and insulated to meet or exceed the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers energy standards. For instance, the windows are operable with dual-glazed low-e glass allowing them to be opened for natural ventilation when the weather permits, and to resist heat gain in the summer.
- Whenever possible, Parks also took special care in selecting materials that were regional, rapidly renewable, and offered high recycled content. For example, the majority of the installed materials were left with a natural finish to reduce the use of paints and varnishes. Exterior materials, such as the corrugated metal roofing panels, and the unpainted steel siding, were chosen for their durability and low maintenance needs.
- The restrooms use low-flow toilets, and waterless urinals.
