Green Roofs for Healthy Cities' Grand Rapids Grey to Green Conference to Feature Exclusive Reception and Tour at John Ball Zoo

Green Roofs for Healthy Cities (GRHC) is excited to announce a reception and tour of the John Ball Zoo as part of the Grand Rapids Grey to Green Conference, taking place on August 9-10, 2023. This unique event will bring together industry experts, policymakers, and community leaders to explore cutting-edge innovations in green infrastructure and sustainable community development. Learn more and register here.

As part of the conference, attendees are invited to a captivating green roof tour and reception at the renowned John Ball Zoo on August 9. The tour will be led by Allmon Forester, the Director of Facilities, Planning & Sustainability at the Zoo, this event offers an exclusive opportunity to explore the impressive green roof of the Meerkat Exhibit. The guided tour will run on August 9 from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM, providing insights into the unique design and sustainability features of the exhibit.

Following the green roof tour, attendees can network with industry professionals at the Bissell Tree House reception, scheduled from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. This informal gathering will foster connections among like-minded individuals passionate about green infrastructure and sustainable practices.

The John Ball Zoo's Meerkat Exhibit stands as a living testament to exemplary green building practices, incorporating innovative living architecture and sustainable design. The Zoo's commitment to conservation, education, and community engagement is evident through its adoption of green initiatives and environmentally friendly practices.

The Meerkat Exhibit showcases numerous high-performing living architecture systems, including a green roof with native plants, contributing to water conservation and stormwater management. The integration of photovoltaic panels with the green roof enhances energy efficiency and reduces the building's carbon footprint. Learn more about the zoo’s Meerkat Exhibit here.

In addition to the green roof tour and reception, the Grand Rapids Grey to Green Conference will feature a plenary session on August 10. The session will host expert speakers, presenting insights into diverse topics such as sustainable building practices, green initiatives in public transportation, and a showcase of LAPT (Living Architecture Performance Tool) certified buildings. Attendees will have the opportunity to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) from AIA, ASLA, and GRP credits.

“Grand Rapids and Southwest Michigan are uniquely positioned to lead the country in the rapid advancement and widespread deployment of living green infrastructure,” says David Yocca, Chair of the Green Infrastructure Foundation. “The conference is an incredible resource and source of inspiration for anyone who wants to learn about or be part of nitrating these best practices into every neighborhood and campus in the region.”

Don't miss this exciting opportunity to explore the Meerkat Exhibit's green roof, learn from industry leaders, and connect with fellow sustainability advocates. Register now for the Grand Rapids Grey to Green Conference and secure your spot at the John Ball Zoo's green roof tour and reception.

Register today!

Thank you to our sponsors, LifeRoof, LiveWall, Permaloc, Inhabitect, Green Infrastructure Foundation.

About Us

Green Roofs for Healthy Cities (GRHC) is a non-profit 501(c)(6) professional industry association working to grow the green roof and wall industry throughout North America since 1999. Our mission is to develop and protect the market by increasing the awareness of the economic, social, and environmental benefits of green roofs, green walls, and other forms of living architecture through education, advocacy, professional development, and celebrations of excellence.


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