DNR builds first Michigan-sourced mass timber building in Newberry

NEWBERRY, Mich. (WLUC) - A block of wood displayed at the new Newberry DNR Resource Center shows a step forward in sustainable construction.

The Michigan DNR built the state’s first mass timber building made with Michigan-sourced timber. DNR Spokesperson John Pepin says construction was like a Lego project.

“The mass timber pieces arrive already assembled, and then they put [them] together,” Pepin said. “It was like 11 truckloads that came at specific times. All that mass timber parts of this building were done in 13 days.”

The 10,000-square-foot building uses Michigan red pine for its walls and roof. The thick beams and columns are made from Douglas fir, which is strong and fire-resistant. The mass timber is made with cross-laminated panels. The wood is glued together to create a building material as strong as iron, but more sustainable.

Pepin says mass timber is a relatively new technology that can lower construction costs. The Newberry project’s total cost was around $12 million, which is $300,000 below the budget. Pepin says the timber also has environmental benefits.

“Wood kinda locks up carbon, and so it sequesters it, so mass timber construction sequesters a lot more carbon than just a regular structure would,” Pepin said.

General Office Assistant Jayne Roohr says the bird-safe windows are one of her favorite parts of the center. The windows are dotted with a pattern to make the windows visible to birds.

“Prevent birds from striking windows, so that’s a nice feature we have, especially in a building so tall and so full of glass,” Roohr said. “We don’t want birds colliding with the structure, so it seems to be working so far, and that’s great.”

Roohr says the center is a welcoming place for you to learn more about wildlife.

“And learn about the good work DNR staff are doing in the field that mostly goes unknown,” Roohr said. “Maybe folks don’t know about the work we do, so we want people to come in here.”

Pepin says the Newberry office showcases mass timber’s techniques and potential.

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