What's Here

Nature House

The Nature House was created to demonstrate efficient use of resources through innovative, energy conserving features. Natural resources such as gas, oil, wood, and water are being used and polluted faster than the natural world can replace or repair it. The Nature House showcases energy systems, building techniques, and recycled materials that enable us to live lightly on the earth. We hope our visitors will learn by example.

Solar Energy

Environmentally Friendly Highlights:

Solar Energy

Photovoltaic arrays on the roof convert the sun's energy into useable electricity. This energy is also stored in batteries for cloudy days and evening use.

A ten inch thick mass wall absorbs energy from the sun and help to retain heat in the building.

Solar thermal panel on porch heats the water the in the building.

Water Conservation

Composting toilets use no water and incorporate a simple system of natural, aerobic biological reduction to convert human waste into compost.

Grey water from kitchen and bathroom sinks is piped through a planting bed in the basement where the water is filtered and reused much the same way that a wetland naturally cleanses water.

Rainwater is collected from the roof and stored in underground cisterns to be used for irrigation and to fill our aquariums in the Critter House.

Natural and Recycled Materials

Ceramic tiles made from recycled auto glass.

Carpet tiles 100% recyclable.

Interior finishes made from the chaff of sunflower plans and soy resin and low VOC paint.

Critter House

The Critter House is home for many animals used to educate our community about Michigan's wildlife as well as to instill an appreciation and respect for the natural world. Most animals have been donated from families who no longer wish to keep them as pets. Visitors can observe frogs, turtles, snakes, rabbits and much more as they hop, crawl and slither in their homes. The Critter House is open most Sundays from 12-3 pm. Please call (734) 994 1692 to check.

The Black Pond Woods

The mile long trail through the Black Pond woods will allow you to explore the plants and animals of the forest. Look for nests, tracks, holes and other signs that animals have been here. Pass by the Black Pond and listen to the frogs peeping in the early spring. Each season brings a new adventure.