This blog is guest-written by Jason Hankes, Manager, Land & Natural Resources, Promega Corporation
At Promega, the arrival of spring is not merely a celebration of nature’s rejuvenation, but also a reflection of our steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship. This vibrant season allows us to spotlight a crucial ecological initiative: the controlled prairie burn. Conducted every three to five years across over 25 acres of native prairie restorations, these burns are essential for habitat health. They not only reduce the risk of wildfires but also curb invasive weeds and stimulate new growth. Undertaking these burns exemplifies how Promega reinforces its commitment to environmental stewardship – a foundational principle that guides our operations and influences our architectural designs.
A Campus Designed for Sustainability
As the Manager of Land & Natural Resources, I oversee the creation and maintenance of spaces that encourage engagement with nature throughout our Madison campus. My team and I draw upon our extensive experience in natural resource management, horticulture, and sustainable agriculture to manage our campus green spaces with respect for environmental integrity. We proactively ensure these areas not only thrive but also serve as sanctuaries for biodiversity and hubs for community engagement and educational opportunities.
Our main campus, sprawling over 400 acres in Madison, Wisconsin, is a living testament to our conservation ethos. More than half of this expansive area is devoted to a variety of ecological habitats, including prairies, woodlands, wetlands, and sustainable farm tracts. This thoughtful stewardship ensures that the land on our campus is not only maintained sustainably but also enriching, fostering meaningful interactions with the natural environment.
Innovative Projects and Infrastructure
The Promega Design Review Committee plays a vital role in upholding our ecological and architectural standards. This committee ensures our buildings and landscapes not only connect people with nature but also meet high aesthetic and functional criteria. Our implementation of features like rain gardens and infiltration swales exemplifies the successful integration of sustainable practices within our infrastructure.
A standout in our conservation efforts is the Prairie Swale/Town Center project. Launched in 2000, this initiative transformed a concrete spillway into a thriving seven-acre prairie that now filters an estimated 12 million gallons of stormwater and rainwater annually. This project not only reduces runoff, protecting surrounding ecosystems, but also creates a vibrant habitat for flora and fauna, while a center for community engagement.
Below the surface, our infrastructure strategy mirrors our commitment to minimal environmental impact. For example, the 244-stall underground parking facility at Agora Buildings is designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape, preserving the integrity of the northern prairie swale.
Charting a Sustainable Future
As we embrace the new growing season, we are inspired by the natural cycle of renewal that spring brings. At Promega, we are committed to proving that environmental responsibility can coexist with innovation. Our ongoing efforts in land and resource management, sustainable agriculture, and ecological restoration are testament to our unwavering dedication to the conscientious stewardship of the Earth. Together, we strive to forge a sustainable future for all.
Learn more about Promega sustainability in our Corporate Responsibility Report.
