INVESTING IN INNOVATION: APP STATE BEGINS CONSTRUCTION OF CONSERVATORY FOR BIODIVERSITY EDUCATION AND RESEARCH.

This summer, the first academic building of Appalachian State University's Innovation District--the Conservatory for Biodiversity Education and Research--will begin to take shape, with construction slated to begin in July.

"As the Innovation District develops, it will provide a thriving space where students, faculty and staff work together with industry partners in specialized areas that capitalize on App State's strengths and regional identity. Collaborations across colleges and disciplines will prepare students for career progression in a dynamic work environment," said App State Chancellor Sheri Everts.

She continued, "The district, through its Conservatory for Biodiversity Education and Research and other buildings, will serve as a vital link between the campus and the regional community through education, economic development, research and outreach."

The approximately 50,000-square-foot building will be among the nations first academic research facilities built to the rigorous sustainability standards of the Living Building Challenge (LBC) --meaning the building must generate more energy than it uses and be made of materials that are healthy for the environment, with all water captured and treated on site.

One of three components in the first phase of development for the Innovation District, the conservatory will bring together expertise across disciplines and facilitate collaborations on campus, as well as encourage K-12 partnerships. It will also build on existing opportunities available through the Department of Biology's teaching and research facilities. Housing for App State faculty and staff, along with a zero-carbon energy system to power the district's facilities, is also planned for phase one.

Paired with the adjacent App State Nature Preserve, the conservatory will advance knowledge surrounding the natural and cultural history of the Southern Appalachian region, allowing the App State Community and visitors to understand the natural history and economic importance of the regions biodiversity and gain a heightened appreciation of the research and creative endeavors being conducted at App State.

The building will have up to four different climate zones in its conservatory portion, as well as a full suite of biology laboratories, classroom space and large event spaces, with adjacent public and research gardens designed to showcase the biodiversity of regional flora.

The classrooms will have dividers, allowing for space...