Caribou Weather Forecast Office (Caribou, ME)

Department of Commerce

The new Caribou Weather Forecast Office is the most environmentally sound facility in NOAA's National Weather Service. Every aspect of the building design, from site selection to construction to commissioning, minimized environmental impacts and maximized resource and operational efficiency. The building was constructed with 50% recycled and locally harvested materials. 75% of the total project waste was salvaged and recycled. The use of low-VOC paint and sealants, operable windows, and natural daylighting provide a healthy and comfortable workplace. Energy conservation measures, such as geothermal heating and cooling, high-efficiency lighting, and water-saving equipment, result in 35% less energy use than a typical Weather Forecast Office.