Project Overview
Designed for the community, by the community. Over 18 months Riverview Elementary School students, local garden and nature enthusiasts, and experts from the community poured their wildest garden ideas, hopes, and dreams into what became the vision for SOIL Outdoor Learning Lab.
Community and School Garden
PHASE 1 (completed)
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Educational garden beds to serve regional students (preschool-college)
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Community garden bed rentals (available to families and individuals through Durango Parks and Recreation)
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Event space for public workshops and educational programming
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Shared harvest garden beds available to the public
The Soil Shed
PHASE 5
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Interpretive signs revealing the secret world of soil
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Soil analysis lab
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Advanced composting systems
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Sustainable construction utilizing earthen materials
The Hub
PHASE 3 (Currently fundraising)
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Education/event pavilion and amphitheater
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Interactive hands-on sustainability education stations
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Cultural and environmental sustainability demonstration gardens, available for public harvesting
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Renewable energy exhibit, including solar array and EV charging station
+ Interpretive signs and interactive education stations will be installed throughout the site.
Grow Dome
PHASE 2 (completed)
Opening Spring 2025
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Year-round growing and sustainability education
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Experimental and innovative growing methods and research
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Integrated aquaponic fish pond
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STEM lessons and demonstrations for students and the public
Food, Forest, and Farm Lab
PHASE 4
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Permaculture/regenerative agriculture practices
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Student and public access to edible plants and fruit trees
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Animal husbandry
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Public farm market stand
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Access to native forest and public hiking trail
INSPIRE Sustainability Education Center
PHASE 6
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Commercial/demonstration kitchen
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Food preservation facilities
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Indoor and rooftop gardens
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School and community events and programs
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Career and technical education/training