The Unexpected Wildlife Refuge was founded in 1961 by Cavit and Hope Sawyer Buyukmihci. On the refuge, the Buyukmihcis set up residence in a small cabin and barn next to an old abandoned cranberry bog. They fixed up the cabin as a home and headquarters for the Refuge. They raised their three children there, and dedicated their lives to humane education and habitat preservation. Today the Refuge has grown to 767 acres of fields, forests and wetlands, and is located in two counties and three municipalities.
Future Platinum LEED Nature Center
The condition of the existing 80+ year old cabin has been steadily deteriorating, especially after the death of Cavit in 1987; he was the “maintenance man” at Unexpected. A poorly constructed foundation, lack of ventilation and a neglected roof have taken their toll; mold, termites and rot have set in.
The Board has discussed removing the existing building and replacing it with a new structure. However, the Board believes that this should not be done lightly given the current global situation. Construction and demolition waste constitutes more than 25% of landfill content. Sustainability in construction, demolition techniques, energy and water use and recycling are paramount in today’s stressed environment. It was decided that Unexpected Wildlife Refuge would embark on a project that will address the environmental and economic consequences of its actions: A Platinum LEED certified Environmental Education Center.
LEED-Certified green building benefits the public health and the environment. They can reduce operating costs, enhance marketability, increase productivity and help to create a sustainable community.
Ecosystem Services Provided:
Outreach, Recreation and Aesthetics: Environmental education- LEED-certified nature center
Total Project Cost: $500,000
Status: The Unexpected Wildlife Refuge received a $2,500 grant from CRI’s Franklin Parker Small Grant program in 2008 and is seeking additional funding for this project.
If you would like further information about this project, please contact Conservation Resources Inc.
