From a story on WQOW-TV (Eau Claire):
Spooner (Eau Claire) – The DNR unveils designs for a new facility it hopes will lead the state in energy efficiency.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources hopes to set the gold standard in green.
“Well, the fact is this building is very expensive to operate,” says Wisconsin Secretary of Natural Resources, Matthew Frank. “We think, in the long run, we’re going to be saving the taxpayers money by investing in a new building.”
The department’s northern headquarters in Spooner is 45 years old. The department says it would cost millions to get the building to meet the state’s new energy efficiency standards.
So, Thursday morning, it unveiled plans for a new highly energy efficient building. The new 18,000 square foot facility will be built right behind the old building in Spooner.
The headquarters serves 18 northern counties, including Barron, Polk and Rusk.
The department says the building will meet the highest level of international energy and environmental standards. The building will, for example, face north to allow for more natural light inside. Rain gardens will collect storm water and water the grass. The builder will also use local materials.