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<\/a><\/figure>Initiated by Joel Walker, director of Center Operations, and designed alongside NASA engineers, the rooftop garden exemplifies green architecture with integrated solar panels, an underfloor air distribution system, and wind turbines. \u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
\u201cIt was something of an experiment to see what worked well and what we might use in future projects,\u201d said Walker.\u00a0<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/figure>The Center Operations team leads sustainability efforts at Johnson, working across multiple directorates and teams. Together, they manage Johnson\u2019s 1,600 acres, which host a diverse array of plants and wildlife.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Building 12\u2019s green roof provides benefits such as reduced potable water and energy usage, better stormwater management, protection from UV rays, and increased stability in high winds. This unique space provides an ideal environment for nesting birds and visiting pollinators and boasts a projected lifespan of 50 years, significantly longer than the 20 to 25 years typical of a conventional roof.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
\u201cI was genuinely surprised by the variety of native species thriving in our rooftop garden,\u201d said Johnson\u2019s wildlife biologist\u00a0Strausser. \u201cWe\u2019ve observed far more species than we ever anticipated, which is both fascinating and encouraging for our conservation efforts.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/figure>Initially, the project started with non-native ornamental plants that failed in the harsh Houston climate. Replanting the garden yielded mixed results until the team hand-scattered a blend of native grass seed and wildflowers. This method proved to be a successful, at a fraction of the cost estimated for professional planting.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
\u201cSometimes the easiest way is the best!\u201d said Walker. \u201cIt looks great now and is much more durable too.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Powered by WPeMatico<\/a><\/small><\/p>\n Get The Details…<\/a> Buzzing with bees, baby birds, and wildflowers, the rooftop garden atop building 12 at Johnson Space Center in Houston reflects NASA\u2019s commitment to environmental stewardship. Originally constructed in 1963, the facility was transformed in 2012, incorporating energy-efficient features that earned it LEED Gold certification. The certification is a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement and [\u2026] Continue reading
\nSumer Loggins <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"