The project fulfilled a long-standing DNR goal—ending the reliance on leased facilities and consolidating teams into a single, owned building. By housing multiple DNR functions in one modern, efficient space, the center improves collaboration among staff and expands public access to natural resource information. The addition of a community room supports CPR and fire safety training, while information kiosks highlight the environmental and economic benefits of Michigan’s forestry industry.

Photo courtesy of Walbridge

Achieving this vision required solving a unique challenge of how to build a mass timber structure in a region without local mass timber manufacturing. Michigan’s forests are rich in hardwoods, but the DNR’s sustainability goals required softwood suitable for cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels. Walbridge, the designers at Lord Aeck Sargent and the DNR identified Michigan red pine as the ideal candidate—but no in-state facility could process it into CLT.

Vaagen Timbers in Washington state was tapped to process the Michigan-grown red pine into high-quality CLT panels that met American National Standards Institute (ANSI) requirements. This partnership marked the first-ever use of Michigan red pine in mass timber construction, setting a precedent for future projects and promoting a new market for the state’s softwood industry.

Photo courtesy of Walbridge

Construction required precise planning and innovative coordination. Walbridge used 3D digital modeling to orchestrate the delivery, erection and integration of the prefabricated CLT panels—11 truckloads delivered “just in time” over a 13-day period. Each panel arrived precut for mechanical, electrical and plumbing penetrations, reducing onsite waste and increasing efficiency. The building’s structure replaced most concrete and steel with glulam beams and CLT panels, reducing embodied carbon while maintaining strength and durability.

Safety remained a central focus throughout construction. More than 34,000 hours were worked without a single injury, thanks to safety huddles, an apprentice mentorship program and Walbridge’s Lessons Learned system that applies best practices from past projects.

The facility embodies the DNR’s mission of stewardship—of both natural and human resources. It promotes innovation, sustainable forestry, reduces emissions and serves as a living example of how local materials and advanced technology can shape a greener future for Michigan residents and others.