Work is getting underway on a series of "green" infrastructure improvements at the Waterman Conservation Education Center in Apalachin.

The project will include the installation of porous pavement, stormwater purification technology and a "babbling brook" waterfall.

Center executive director Christopher Audette said the work will start with reconstruction of the parking lot, which will require a deep excavation.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, Audette said the new lot will demonstrate technology which will allow water to pass through it. Water collected will flow through several layers of sediment and rock before it's released.

A rendering of the planned improvement projects is on display at the Waterman Conservation Education Center. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
A rendering of the planned improvement projects is on display at the Waterman Conservation Education Center. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
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New York state government has awarded a $330,000 grant to cover much of the project cost.

The Waterman center is continuing to seek $50,000 to $100,000 in donations to fund the planned work.

Construction equipment staged at the Waterman center on September 29, 2021. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
Construction equipment staged at the Waterman center on September 29, 2021. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
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Audette said he's hoping an outdoor classroom will be built as part of the project, although that component may not become a reality unless enough money is received from other sources.

The improvement project is expected to be completed within a year.

The conservation education center is based on property which had been part of the Waterman family farm in the town of Owego. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
The conservation education center is based on property which had been part of the Waterman family farm in the town of Owego. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or (607) 772-8400 extension 233.

For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.

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