MILLBROOK — After several years of planning, developing and building, the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies welcomed visitors and guests to view its newly renovated building. The Tozer Ecosystem Science Building was unveiled on Friday, April 8. Guests celebrated the grand reveal and walked the grounds, talked with one another, sipped champagne and viewed the impressive new facilities.
A large tent, set up near the new science facility, had seating for those who wanted it, and while drinks were poured and canapés served, Cary President Joshua Ginsberg welcomed all, especially the donors and members of the Cary’s Aldo Leopold Society.
The Society supports environmental science, public programming and education at the Cary Institute. Ginsburg shared his appreciation to all who helped make the $14 million renovation possible.
Key among those were Zibby and Jim Tozer, who donated $2 million to the Cary this January, which put the research institute over its fundraising goal.
While speaking to those present, Ginsberg introduced some of the Leopold members, members of the Board of Directors who were present and called on Zibby Tozer to say a few words.
She said her time as a board member had been “an inspiration,” and that she was grateful for the wonderful and consistent leadership at the Cary and on its board.
The building, designed by architects Becker and Becker, glowed as the late afternoon sun hit its copper sheathing.
Originally built in 1974 after being designed by Malcolm Wells for the New York Botanical Garden, it was one of the very first commercial solar-powered buildings. In 1983, it was taken over by the newly founded Cary Institute.
Many wondered why those at the Cary chose to renovate rather than build a new center. The answer? After almost 50 years, the facility was still in good condition; renovating is greener, cheaper, takes less time and allowed the staff to continue to work throughout.
The plans to renovate were on the drawing board for a while; the fundraising campaign began in August 2020. Thankfully, the $13 million goal was exceeded by $1 million, before COVID struck. So while the pandemic might have slowed the project down slightly, fundraising, planning and construction were able to continue through those stressful times.
With oversight by Emeritus Cary Trustee Allan Shope, himself a respected architect, the project went forth.
The original saw-tooth roof was restored, and the building has achieved the goals set out for energy efficiency and sustainability.
The solar field adjacent to the property will meet 100% of the Cary Institute’s energy needs, which includes more science offices, space for visiting scientists, post doctoral studies and conference rooms. All of these space will be equipped to support networking, both virtual and hybrid.
The building, spacious and light-filled, also features a recessed courtyard, offering outside space for contemplation and peace.
Very modern in feel, many materials used in the construction were recycled and repurposed. A long hallway leading off the foyer has a wall, with multiple windows for light where eight plaques proudly display the names of the many donors who made the project possible. The attractive entrance can be seen from Sharon Turnpike.
Ginsberg was asked early on about why the renovation was necessary. He said it was both needed and urgent.
“The 45-year-old building needed updating,” he said. “We wanted the renovation to support Cary’s mission, creating a headquarters that is highly energy-efficient and built sustainably. The design supports the collaborative nature of 21st century science.”
Cary is a nonprofit science center; its staff and scientists research and compile data on environmental issues such as freshwater and forest health, prevention of emerging diseases and the sustainability of cities.
It is particularly noted for its work on Lyme disease and tick-born illnesses, as well as water pollution. It also has summer programs for students and the annual Data Jam contest for local students.
The institute shares its findings with the public on a well-maintained website, through highly prestigious papers presented around the world and at monthly programs that Ginsberg hopes will resume this fall.
The new space was designed to protect the health of those in the building, with filtered outdoor air that is not recirculated. In a nod to the rise in frequency of pandemics, the space also allows for social distancing and offers low-VOC products, hands-free doors and fixtures and antimicrobial surfaces.
For more information, go to www.caryinstitute.org or call 845-677-7600.
President of the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies Joshua Ginsberg was pleased to welcome the community to the celebration at the Cary’s Millbrook campus. Photo by Judith O'Hara Balfe
From left, volunteers Mona Staaf Gunther, Minali Abraham Aggarwal and Amy Sherman attended the Friday, April 8, unveiling of the redesigned and renamed Tozer Ecosystem Science Building. Photo by Judith O'Hara Balfe
