Luther College's "Green Roof" continues to thrive

The green roof installed on Luther College's Sampson-Hoffland Laboratories in 2013 is alive and kicking!

The roof survived a harsh, record-breaking winter and now its plants are doing well this summer.

The 1,500 square foot roof area is capable of sustaining 29 drought-tolerant plant varieties hardy to Northeast Iowa. These plants showcase a range of hues, adding aesthetic appeal to the roof's practicality.

In addition to the colorful array of plant life, the roof also features a rain garden to help sustain the plants, a chilled-water recirculation loop to remove heat from scientific instruments and an outdoor air system created by Roof Top Sedums, providing Sampson-Hoffland with fresh air while saving energy.
           
"Luther is really taking a huge step in the right direction towards environmental sustainability," said Roxanne Nagel, Co-owner of Roof Top Sedums.  "They should be proud to have the first green roof in Decorah."
           
Green roofs are long-term money-savers as are highly eco-friendly. They reduce air pollution, enhance storm water management and water quality and reduce the amount of run-off water from Sampson-Hoffland.