Volume_29_Issue_2

12 Volume 29, Issue 2 Preservation & Progress This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Gettysburg Foundation’s (GF) operation of the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center (MVC) in a LEED Gold environment. The museum environment is probably not something a visitor notices, but it is undeniably something that enhances the visitor experience and is absolutely crucial to the care of the building and the artifacts in the museum. Brian Shaffer, GF Vice President of Facilities and his staff literally have their hands on the controls that maintain temperature, humidity, lighting, energy consumption, and in many ways the safety of the facility, its contents, and the landscape and parking areas. When the 139,000 square-foot MVC opened in 2008, it was the first museum in Pennsylvania and only the fourth museum in the nation to receive LEED Gold certification. In the original planning and design of the museum complex, the specifications for each of the following requirements were adopted to achieve and maintain this status: • Geothermal heating and cooling system • Wetlands restoration • Native plants • Timber reuse • Recycling • Construction waste reduction • Storm water runoff mitigation • Plumbing—low-flow toilets and sinks • Reduced off-gasses • Bicycle storage and public transportation access to the Gettysburg area bus system • Regional materials The MVC has operated with a geothermal heating and cooling system since its 2008 opening, with 168 wells at a depth of 550 feet using the earth's constant 55-degree temperature to maintain the proper temperature inside the facility. Each of the two drill rigs from Chesapeake Geosystems, Inc. can complete one well per day, depending on weather conditions. By mid-2018 there will be 104 additional geothermal wells in place, extending the environmental capability necessary for the increased workload on the MVC and growth over the past ten years. With this system the MVC requires 40% less energy than a conventional building of its size. Shaffer explained that the park’s extensive artifact collection requires a steady 73-degree temperature with a relative humidity of 50 to 55 percent. Many artifacts are on display while others are kept in various parts of the building, but all require the same temperature and humidity controls for their preservation. Another key feature in sustaining our environmental stewardship is the enhancement of the interior and exterior lighting. LED lamps are now being used, replacing much of the original lighting in and around the building. Since 2010 Shaffer’s staff has replaced 1,118 lamps in 28 areas of the MVC, now realizing an annual energy savings of $13,022. In addition, GF has installed charging stations for electric vehicles. Complementing all of these LEED Gold certification requirements is the MVC’s Refreshment Saloon’s commitment to environmental sustainability. Aramark’s efforts include the implementation of an Environmental Management System, the elimination of Styrofoam usage, the use of napkins made of certified recycled fibers and the use of clear containers, plates and cups made of certified recycled materials. In May 2008, the ribbon was cut to celebrate the “soft opening” of the MVC. In September 2008, the official opening was celebrated, showcasing the restored cyclorama painting, the largest artifact in the park’s collection. As the NPS partner for preservation and education, Gettysburg Foundation is proud of the continuing efforts of unseen environmental stewardship and the staffs that maintain the systems and the building. They play significant roles in the successful day-to-day operations, preservation and safety of artifacts, the building and grounds, and contribute to the comfort and safety of our visitors. 10Years of Environmental Focus a t Ge t t y s b u r g Na t i o n a l M i l i t a r y Pa r k Mu s e um a n d V i s i t o r Ce n t e r By Barbara J. Finfrock Construction for the new geothermal wells. Brian Shaffer shows off the new electric car charging station. A G O L D S T A N D A R D F O R T H E E N V I R O N M E N T