The Park District of Oak Park’s new Environmental Education Center is scheduled to open at 10 a.m., June 11 in Austin Gardens, just north of Lake Street near Forest Avenue.
In addition to a tour of the LEED platinum-certified facility, a range of activities is planned, including recyclable crafts, a scavenger hunt and entertainment. Residents also are invited to bring their lawn and tree care questions for the staff experts to answer.
The new facility, known as the AGEEC, is a showcase for sustainable design, featuring a geo-thermal heating and cooling system, solar panels, a green roof, storm water harvesting, rain gardens and an energy efficient building envelope and mechanical systems. The AGEEC will be home to sustainability workshops, classes, summer camps and a nature-based preschool program.
Visit www.pdop.org for more information on Park District programs and facilities.