Denver Museum of Nature & Science Nature Play

Colorado ecosystems and a restored, historic waterway become a natural playground for living and learning outside of the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science strives to catalyze community passion for nature and science both inside and outside of its walls. Biohabitats helped the Museum and its partner, Denver Parks and Recreation, create an outdoor, nature play experience that celebrates the eight Colorado ecosystems exhibited inside the museum. The project restores portions of the historic DeBoer waterway to a sustainable, flowing creek that acts as the connective tissue for natural play experiences in the space.

Working collaboratively with a team led by Dig Studio, Biohabitats provided ecological site analysis, waterway and riparian restoration planning, and ecological design integration for nature play and exhibit areas. This included contributing to habitat features and plant species selection. Biohabitats also designed a biofiltration wetlands system to advance water quality goals and green infrastructure to manage stormwater and conserve water through plant material selection, water reuse, and water efficient irrigation standards.

In addition to catalyzing play and passion for science and nature, the project provides wildlife habitat, reduces heat island effect, protects natural and cultural resources, and enhances the site’s resilience climate-related impacts.

TAGS

• Analysis+Planning
• Assessment+Monitoring
• Ecological Restoration