Completed in 2006, the 8,500 sq. ft Nature Learning Center (NLC) with its solar panels and photovoltaic panels boasts a near zero energy footprint. The roof of the NLC contains 1,000 sq.ft. of photovoltaic panels for electricity and ~1,000 sq.ft. solar thermal array for heat. The building also generates heat from a wood-burning furnace. The wood for heat is harvested from TMCC Bear Paw timber lands in Center Conway, NH.
Local craftsmen constructed the post and beam building using local materials, including the fireplace and chimney constructed from granite quarried right here on the Tin Mountain property. Over 22 local wood species were used in its construction and are identified with signage throughout the building. Most of this wood was cut and milled either on the property or within 15 miles of it. Vermont slate is found on the floors in the lobby, classroom and restrooms.
In addition to housing the offices for Tin Mountain's offices, the Nature Learning Center serves as a gathering place for community programs and provides space for classes, field trips, and camps. When not in use for classes and nature programs, the Nature Learning Center is available to rent for occasions such as birthdays, retirement and holiday parties, memorials services, bridal or baby showers and weddings.
Additional Amenities
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The Nature Learning Center is home to one of the largest natural history libraries in the Mt. Washington Valley. Over 2,500 volumes are available to read in the sun-filled space or to check out and take home to study. It also includes a complete set of books read through the Environmental Book Club.
Click https://www.librarything.com/catalog/tinmountain to see a list of the current titles available in the Tin Mountain Natural History Library.
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BarnAt over 200 years old, the West Oxford Agricultural Society Barn constructed circa 1800, is the oldest barn in Albany and probably one of the oldest in the Mt. Washington Valley. Reconstructed in the early 2000’s, the barn currently serves as storage and a workshop for Tin Mountain. It also houses the pack-out room for our summer canoe and hiking trips. One wall features the history of this property and connects the barn to the Lori Jean Kinsey Arboretum and Sanctuary across the road. Tin Mountain acquired the 73 acre property from the Allard/Hunt family in 2020.
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EV station
In keeping with our zero footprint goal, Albany hosts an electric-vehicle (EV) charging station. It’s available on a first come, first serve basis and is donation based. Please consider making a donation while charging your EV.
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Accessible Nature TrailCompleted in 2023, the 1.2 mile Accessible Nature Trail is perfect for families with strollers, folks with balance or mobility issues, or those working their way back to full physical activity after illness, injury or surgery. The combination of a smooth surface and gentle grade make it the perfect place to walk without having to worry about tripping over roots or rocks. There are benches spaced along the trail and a beautiful post and beam pavilion complete with picnic tables and Adirondack chairs.
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