Community and Civic
Oak Hammock Marsh
Ducks Unllimited Canada
A Green Legacy
Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre acts as a conservation for the Canadian wetland and grassland making sustainability and the environmental wellbeing of the site a top priority. The Canadian head office for Ducks Unlimited stands as a beacon of sustainable architecture, blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings while serving multiple functions.
The accolades speak volumes about the project’s success, including being named Canada’s top outdoor tourist site by Attractions Canada and receiving the Manitoba Tourism ‘Service Excellence Award.’ Additionally, British Airways recognized it as one of the top five eco-tourism destinations globally, and the Green Roof Awards of 2003 further validated its sustainable design prowess. This project not only meets but surpasses many LEED measures, setting a high standard for green architecture and ecotourism worldwide.


One of the standout features is the “green” roof system. Adorned with prairie grass, the roof system integrates the building into the landscape from a bird’s-eye view.
The facility houses a public interpretive center, museum, teaching lab, field lab, and auditorium, each meticulously designed to harmonize with the environment. Berms around the perimeter soften the building’s visual impact and promote landscape integration.


Local materials like limestone for exteriors and concrete for the frame were chosen, not just for their sustainability but also for their thermal properties, aiding in temperature regulation within the building. Natural daylight floods the office spaces, minimizing the need for artificial lighting, while wide overhangs mitigate heat gain and prevent bird collisions.
Renewable energy, in the form of electrical systems, powers the facility, while careful material selection reduces off-gassing and promotes indoor air quality. The innovative wastewater management system, featuring a self-contained lagoon with a cat tail marsh, exemplifies the project’s commitment to natural cycles and eco-friendly practices.

