Six to seven thousand school kids every year.
Thirty-six preschoolers at a time.
One restroom.
A lot has changed since Hartley Nature Center celebrated - finally! - the construction of an actual building in 2003. At the time, its grid-tied solar energy system, low impact building techniques and forest-certified wood construction was not only "ahead of the design curve," it was a reflection of the organization's values.
But the success of the school group visits, camps and preschool programs means they need more space, and advances in energy-efficient and sustainable technologies means they need some upgrades.
Enter the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission with a $1 million grant to help fund the hoped-for 6,000-square-foot addition.
