Project Titles:

• Visitor Center Window Replacement (FFS #R3GH)
• Visitor Center Halon Fire Suppression System Replacement (FFS #R3GJ)
• Incandescent Light Fixture Replacement (FFS #R3GK)
• Shop Building Energy Conservation (FFS #R3GE)
• Employ YCC Enrollees (FFS #R3NA)

States: Iowa and Nebraska

Project Description: The DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge in Iowa and the Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuge in Nebraska will receive funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to improve the energy efficiency of the refuges’ visitor center and maintenance facilities and provide employment opportunities for local youth.

DeSoto and Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuges straddle the Missouri River just north of Omaha, Nebraska, and include land in both Iowa and Nebraska. The largest portion of the funding will be used to upgrade windows and light fixtures in the DeSoto visitor center in order to reduce operational costs and use less energy. In addition, a new fire suppression system will be installed to increase safety for both visitors and staff.
On the Nebraska side, at the Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuge maintenance facility, Recovery Act funding will be used to install an energy efficient geothermal heating and air conditioning unit, insulation and a heated flooring system. This project will provide the refuge with long-term energy savings.

Finally, the refuge will use some of the funds to hire youth to work on the refuge as part of the Youth Conservation Corps. This program provides summer employment for youth between the ages of 15 and 18 and provides them an opportunity to work, earn, and learn by completing projects that further the development and conservation of our nation’s natural resources.

News Release: Secretary Salazar Announces $1.85 Million for Infrastructure Improvements, Energy Efficiency Projects, and Youth Employment at DeSoto and Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuges

Originally posted 08/07/2009