After many months, and much anticipation, the Flint Hills Discovery Center has been awarded the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification. LEED is the nation’s preeminent program for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.
LEED certification of the Discovery Center was based on a variety of design and construction features, some of which include: a geo-thermal Heating and cooling system, use of LED or low-voltage lighting components, and two on-site bioswales used for groundwater filtration.
“Achieving LEED certification was a goal for the design team and steering committee from the early planning stages. Visitors to the Flint Hills Discovery Center will reap the benefits of an educational learning center that serves as a tool to emphasize the importance of taking innovative steps to help balance development with the natural environment while achieving significant energy and other efficiencies that lower operating costs,” said Ron Fehr, Manhattan City Manager.
The community will have an opportunity to learn more about LEED Certification during the Discover Center’s One Year Birthday celebration on April 13th. “Discovery Day” will feature several family-focused activities including a three-floor scavenger hunt, complimentary concessions, and unlimited access to 10,000 square feet of interactive exhibits. Admission will be free from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
After a national search, the City of Manhattan recently named Fred Goss as the new Director of the Discovery Center. Goss currently serves as Assistant Superintendent for the Missouri State Parks. He has held the positions of Consultant with the Cultural Resource Management Group, in Greensboro, NC and positions of Assistant Director, Interim Director and Graduate Student Internship/Farm Management for Old Cowtown Museum in Wichita, KS. He will begin his employment with the City of Manhattan on May 1st.
Visit flinthillsdiscovery.org for more information on upcoming events including an on-going exhibit titled “Touch the Sky”, which features 44 framed photographs of the prairie taken by National Geographic photographer, Jim Brandenburg.
