We’re all responsible for this planet. And we believe in doing our part.
Natural ventilation system
With an increased awareness of the cost and environmental impact of energy use, natural ventilation has become a smarter method for reducing energy use. Natural ventilation, unlike fan-forced air, uses the natural forces of wind and buoyancy to circulate fresh air into our buildings.
The system used by our Learning Centre, Dairy Barn and Nature's Pickin's is computer controlled through side-wall fresh air inlets and chimney exhaust louvers. In the barn our cows provide the heat to create the air movement!
Lighting system
The lighting system in both the Dairy Barn and Nutrifoods Market uses induction based technology, creating the most efficient conversion of electricity to light. The system uses 47% less energy consumption and lasts 10 times longer, along with improved brightness and color.
Water conservation system
The Bakerview EcoDairy collects fresh rainwater from the roof of the Learning Centre. For every inch of water collected, 4000 gallons is stored and reused to irrigate the green roof and grounds.
Building materials
Before 1993, the mountain pine beetle was just another insect in BC's rich forests. However for the past decade the burrowing beetle's population has exploded, its infestation continuing to wipe out growths of mature Lodgepole pine trees so important to the province's lumber industry. Instead of going to waste, beetle-attacked timber has been salvaged and used in the Learning Centre rather than using new material from healthy trees. But don’t worry; the unique-looking wood has no practical effect on the strength of the building. It not only looks beautiful but it is solid and structurally sound.
Property enhancement
The Bakerview EcoDairy, in cooperation with the City of Abbotsford’s Soil Conservation Group, is enhancing the riparian zone along the Marshall/Lonzo Creek.
The site encourages animal habitation, with a few acres of natural and wooded pasture that allows for both birds and wildlife to exist on the property. You can find a bald eagle’s nest on the south side of the property.