- WEEKLY POLL
- Maumee Bay Tourists' Guide
Visitor center at Ottawa wildlife refuge opens
By Larry Limpf
Special to Maumee Bay Press
After years of planning, the doors to the new visitor center at the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge have opened to the public.
The center, which cost approximately $3.6 million, covers about 12,000 square feet and features a common area, bookstore, multi-purpose room, a theater, and elevated observation deck.
Recycled materials are prominent in the construction of the three-level facility, which was designed by SEH, Inc., a Minneapolis, Minn. architectural firm.
“We tried to make it as environmentally friendly as we could make it,” said Rebecca Hinkle, Visitor Services Manager.
The floor of the common area is made of a composite of a linseed oil-based linoleum and ground cork. Recycled materials have also been used in the carpeting, ceramic tile, and decking.
Even the former offices of refuge staff may be “recycled,” said Doug Brewer, refuge manager, and could be used for housing for seasonal interns.
Sensor-controlled lighting will conserve energy and a metal roof is designed to reflect rather than absorb rays from the sun, he said.
The building is heated by a geothermal system.
“There is a lake out in front of the building and that’s to serve the geothermal heating system,” Brewer said. “There are coils that run from the building into the bottom of the lake.”
The refuge staff has also converted an old ditch into a wetland area near the building.
Displays and “hands-on” exhibits offer visitors an opportunity to learn about various wildlife at the refuge, Hinkle said. There is also a history of the Great Black Swamp.
From the observation deck, visitors will have - with binoculars or a telescope - a clear view of an eagle’s nest.
The center sits closer to SR 2 than the old office building, which is closer to Lake Erie.
“It’s a first-class building,” Brewer said. “It’s very visible from the road and we’re hoping that will help pull some people in. People will see it and want to come and see what we’re all about. The old building wasn’t as welcoming as this building.”
More construction projects at the refuge are being planned and will start this fall, he said, including a boardwalk, outdoor education building, and outdoor restroom facilities.
Funding for those comes from a settlement between FirstEnergy and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, according to Brewer.
Visiting hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Sunday.
- BUSINESS DIRECTORY
- COMMUNITY RESOURCE
