Page 8 - Winter 2014 magazine

N estled on a small hill within the Red and culture that will enhance their experience in Red
Rock Canyon. This can be
Rock National Conservation Area, bare-
ly visible to travelers on Highway 159, accomplished by viewing
sits the Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center. The build- the outdoor exhibits con-
ing was designed not only to house a center for our sisting of habitats for the
guests to learn about the canyon, but also includes a desert tortoise and the four

beautiful gift shop along with outdoor exhibits. themed elements: Earth,

Air, Fire and Water. At the
Constructed to replace the smaller Visitor Center that west end of the outdoor ex-
had been in use since 1982, the new 16,600 sq. ft. hibit area there is a plat-
structure has many features that most guests do not form with signs to explain
see but should be aware of. The site’s 60-kw photo- to viewers what they are Viewing Platform
voltaics (producing at least 20% of the electrical use seeing—a perfect spot to
take in the beautiful views
of the canyon, the Calico Hills and the escarpment.

While the emphasis of the building is to provide an
experience that everyone will
long remember and look for-
ward to enjoying again, the
Photovoltaic Panels at Red Rock
Photo by Line and Space design of the building has
features items that led to
for the building) along with solar water heating and a
recirculation wastewater system help provide a posi- LEED gold-certification.
tive experience to nearly a million tourists and locals This designation or
recognition means the
facility promotes better
each year.
Supporting the Bureau of Land Management’s building energy perfor-
(BLM) mission to encourage stewardship for the mance through innovative strategies.

land, the design of this facility provides an outdoor
responsibility for our land’s well-being. The concept is The structure also features a rainwater collection sys-
to introduce the visitor to the relevant science, art tem that allows the water to be harvested, stored and
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