Wherever possible, we choose sustainable materials and follow the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle. Salvaging and reconditioning building materials keeps valuable resources out of landfills and reduces the need for new production and raw materials. Many generous donors have shared beautiful materials with ALNC or supported projects that prioritize sustainability. Here are just a few examples of how we are lightening our load on the Earth.

Roofing:
In 2024, the roof over the Nature Preschool was replaced with a metal roofing system installed by Swita Metal Roofing. Instead of installing new asphalt shingles, we selected metal for its durability and environmental benefits. While traditional shingle roofs typically last 20 to 30 years, metal roofs can last 100 years or more, significantly reducing long-term material waste and the need for replacement. The new roof also supports the facility’s solar panels by providing a strong, long-lasting surface well suited for mounting and long-term renewable energy production.

Timber framing:
The beautiful post-and-beam framing in the new addition is crafted from old barn timbers salvaged and reconditioned by Glenville Timberwrights of Baraboo. Reusing historic building materials preserves natural resources while honoring the craftsmanship and history of the past.

Carpeting:
All carpeting and tile in the expanded facility were reclaimed from other construction projects and saved from landfills. Sergenians Floor Coverings, a leader in green flooring, donated carpet as well as ceramic and vinyl tile. The company has received numerous awards for its environmental practices and commitment to sustainability. Epic Systems, a company with a strong commitment to sustainable practices, donated carpeting for the office areas.

Lighting fixtures:
Epic Systems also donated lighting fixtures that were no longer needed. These fixtures were retrofitted with LED bulbs to provide energy-efficient lighting throughout the Nature Center.

Office furniture:
More than 20 rooms of furniture were donated and given a second life at the Nature Center, keeping these items out of the landfill. Office cubicles, the reception desk, and additional furnishings were donated by Smith & Gesteland. Chairs and tables were donated by American Girl. Tables and other office furniture were donated by Target Interiors.

Deck:
Trex Company, the world’s largest manufacturer of high-performance, wood-alternative decking, supplied the recycled plastic material used for the Nature Center’s outdoor decks. This product gives new life to used plastic while eliminating the need to replace rotting or splintered wood.

Fireplace:
Donated by Top Hat Heating, the Valcourt Versailles high- efficiency wood-burning fireplace uses a renewable energy source to heat the lobby.

Fireplace Stone:
In the late 1800s, ships traveling from Belgium to Chicago carried granite stones as ballast. Once in Chicago, the stones were unloaded and used to pave the city’s early streets. These historic pavers were later salvaged by Glenville Timberwrights and are now beginning their fourth life as the stone surrounding our fireplace.

Reclaimed Flooring:
Salvaged from a New Orleans warehouse scheduled for demolition, these century-old yellow heart pine boards were re-planed by Resplendent Mill Shop. They were shipped at nominal cost by W & A Shipping of Ft. Atkinson for use in constructing the original Nature Center facility. Installed by Bartrol Hardwood Floors, the flooring demonstrates how timber created for one purpose can be reused generations later in a new way. By reclaiming these boards, we reduced the number of trees harvested for use at ALNC.

Leopold Pines:
The entrance to the original Nature Center building is flanked by four pine logs planted by Aldo Leopold and his family at “The Shack” in the 1930s. Harvested with draft horses by Nature Center volunteers in April 1996, the logs were stripped by hand and left outdoors to weather naturally. As structural supports in the original lobby, they serve as a lasting symbol of Leopold’s commitment to conservation and environmental education.

Driveway:
Our driveway is made with recycled asphalt, reducing the need for newly mined and processed materials. DRS Paving of Madison recycles old pavement for reuse in projects like the Nature Center. Choosing recycled materials is a practical way to care for the Earth.

Antler Chandeliers:
The magnificent antler chandelier in the main lobby was created by artists at Scottsdale Art Factory. Constructed from naturally shed elk antlers and weighing 1,400 pounds, it was gifted by the Kelly Family Foundation and Scottsdale Art Factory. The deer antler chandeliers in the original building’s breakout rooms were crafted from naturally shed antlers gathered in northern Wisconsin and donated by Mary and Terry Kelly.