The Shoreline Recycling and Transfer Station was reopened in February 2008 after a two year rebuilding project on the site of an old landfill. This redevelopment incorporated some of the highest standards of green building such as; a rooftop rainwater harvesting system, solar electricity panels, recycled content components and many more environmentally-friendly improvements. As a result, the U.S. Green Building Council, a national organization dedicated to expanding green-building practices, awarded this fine facility its highest designation, the “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) Platinum Certification. On a recent walking tour of the facility, the manager told our group that they were hoping for a Gold Certification but were thrilled to be awarded the higher level of Platinum. He was extremely proud of this facility and was very passionate about recycling to reduce the amount of waste going into our landfills.
The headwaters of Thornton Creek begin at Ronald Bog, a few blocks north of the recycling station. The creek water goes underground at the outlet and comes out at the wetland patch immediately west of and adjacent to the recycling station. Every measure is being taken at the recycling station to prevent any negative impact on the creek. Unfortunately, much of this part of the creek flows underground until it comes out at Twin Ponds Park at 1st Ave NE and N. 155th St. However, unlike most urban streams, Thornton Creek is above ground for 90% of the main channel, through more than 700 backyards, 15 parks and natural areas on its way southeast before joining Lake Washington. Needless to say, these areas are often used for hiding geocaches in some really cool places and help us all stay closer to nature.
The final is hidden in a place where Thornton Creek will be flowing under your feet. You will see some evidence of King County efforts to prevent flooding in a place where this has been a problem. Imagine water flowing from a 30 inch pipe into a 15 inch pipe? Could that be a problem?
Cache coordinates are: N 47 4B.(D+A)+6 W 122 19.9[(A-B)+20]
“The rainwater harvesting system collects water to flush toilets, and wash station floors, and equipment. This reduces water needs by A%” “Photovoltaic solar panels generate electricity even on cloudy days and provide up to B% of the building’s energy needs for lights, fans and other equipment.” Natural daylight is the primary light source, reducing energy needs by C% A passive natural ventilation system pushes air through the station, reducing energy needs for ventilation by D%.
When you go to the Shoreline Recycling Station, do not go through the gate but turn left and park in the recycling area. From there you can walk through the gate to the information kiosk where all the needed information will be found. Information found on the internet may not match information on the kiosk. While here, take a moment to observe the big tires mounted on the meridian strips near the station entrance. They are used earthmover tires that have been fitted with motion sensors and a sound system When people drive in they set off the system and it plays back all the various sounds of animals and water of the creek. Kids will love it!
At the final, park on the street and approach GZ via the grassy right of way and not on the nearby neighbor’s property. Please respect the property owners rights and do not disturb their peace and quiet.
You can check your answers for this puzzle on GeoChecker.com.