By Gary Lloyd
Turkey Creek Nature Preserve in Pinson is going green.
This summer, through a building energy audit administered by Alabama Power, funds for Turkey Creek were used to upgrade insulation, seal ductwork and purchase a new heat pump for the nature center, where students come to learn about conservation and sustainability.
The nature center previously had inadequate insulation, leaky ducts and outdated heating and cooling equipment, making the center hot in the summer and freezing in the winter.
Thanks to a grant from the Alabama Business Charitable Trust, help from Alabama Power and the sweat equity of student volunteers, the nature center is now energy efficient.
A work day in June allowed Birmingham-Southern College students to learn how they can make simple home improvements and become more energy efficient. They learned how to caulk windows and door facings, and apply weather-stripping where needed.
“Every year, thousands of students come through the preserve and we try to teach them different ways to be energy efficient that are simple and cheap,” said Turkey Creek Resident Manager Charles Yeager. “We want them to take those tips home and share them with their families.”
The 466-acre preserve is home to three endangered species of fish, including one found nowhere else in the world.
Contact Gary Lloyd at news@trussvilletribune.com and follow him on Twitter @GaryALloyd.