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Project Titles:
- Replace Office Visitor Center (FFS #R3GM)
- Visitor Center Energy Renovation (FFS #R3AA)
- Employ 10 Conservation Interns (FFS #R3ND*)
State: Missouri
Project Description: Construction continues on schedule for a Fall 2012 completion of the new Mingo National Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center in Missouri, thanks to more than $4.3 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Those dollars were used to design and then construct a new headquarters and visitor facility at the Refuge. This project involves replacing the existing visitors’ center at Mingo National Wildlife Refuge to increase the energy efficiency of the dramatically outdated and inefficient building, and also to meet accessibility requirements. Additionally, the refuge received $8,000 in Recovery Act funding to employ conservation interns.
The completed building will be located on the same site as the existing facility. The extent of the repairs needed to bring the existing building up to current codes and standards were the same as constructing a new facility. Thus, a new facility was the preferred choice, bringing the Refuge a headquarters and visitors center that, for the first time, meets Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards the existing building could not reach. The new facility will provide energy costs savings, while providing a modern and accessible visitor facility for the public.
“We are excited about this new facility and the increased visitors we expect it will bring to the local community,” said Mingo National Wildlife Refuge Manager Ben Mense. “This not only helps the local economy, but it will also help us to reach a broader audience as we tell the story of fish and wildlife resources and the unique habitat we have in southeastern Missouri.”
For additional information, visit the Mingo National Wildlife Refuge website.
Photos:
 It’s out with the old and in with the new as demolition began by Arrowhead Contracting crews preparing the way for the construction of a new energy efficient visitor center at Mingo National Wildlife Refuge, Missouri. (Photo courtesy of Arrowhead Contracting) |
 After all the reusable parts of the old structure were dealt with, construction crews moved to the contaminant removal phase. This included removal of the asbestos shingles on the roof. (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service photo by Scott Cadawallader) |
 With an eye toward energy efficiency, a geothermal test well was completed for the new Mingo facility. The process involves drilling roughly 200 feet down and results in “cuttings” shown here in the catchment system.” (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service photo by Scott Cadawallader) |
Press Release: Secretary Salazar Announces $2.8 Million for New Headquarters and Visitor Facility at Mingo National Wildlife Refuge
*Project R3ND is a Regionwide project impacting multiple sites. Visit the Youth Employment in the Midwest Region project page to learn more about the youth employment projects taking place in this region.
Originally posted 08/07/2009
Updated 06/16/2010
Updated 08/12/2010
Updated 11/09/2011
