Envisioning SNC's New Home at Second Dam

Introduction

Students in USU's Landscape Architecture and Environmental Planning (LAEP) department spent several weeks in Fall 2009 envisioning Stokes Nature Center's future site at Second Dam. Graduate and undergraduate students enrolled in Prof. Michael Timmons' Recreation/Open Space Planning and Design studios were asked to analyze the site to determine what opportunities and constraints it presented for redevelopment to accommodate the new use. Student teams were asked to develop site design concepts that would take advantage of the scenic, recreational, and natural resource diversity of the Second Dam setting, while solving challenging issues presented by the site. Some difficulties addressed by students included creating safe highway access and parking, allowing for display and classroom space for SNC, and making the river both accessible and safe. In exchange for some real-world experience, the students have contributed fresh ideas and perspectives for an exciting expansion of Stokes Nature Center.

The LAEP students created posters of their ideas. Some of the images from these posters are displayed below. We'd like to hear your feedback and/or ideas for the new site. You can send them to .

Click on an image for a larger view.

Building Design Ideas:

Site Plans:

Landscaping:

Hummingbird Patio:

Kids' Natural Play Area:

Indoor-Outdoor Classroom:

Trails:

Interpretive Signs:

Geology Display:

Sound Walls:

Restoration:

Riverside Amphitheater:

Riverside Walkway:

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