A new "green" campground toilet/shower building is ready for the 2008 camping season at Grand Haven State Park, according to the Department of Natural Resources.

The new "green" structure incorporates energy and water efficiencies, renewable energy systems and expanded accessibility through a sustainable and functional design. Some of the "green" aspects include natural day lighting, a photovoltaic solar array to augment electricity used for the building's ventilation system, energy efficient lighting with occupancy sensors, timer controlled showers with on-demand water heaters and reduced flow shower heads to conserve energy. Utility repairs and upgrades to the associated sanitary and water systems were also completed.

The general contractor, D & K Construction, and the construction and architectural design firm, Integrated Architecture, worked with the DNR Parks and Recreation Division staff through the harsh winter months to keep construction of this new building on schedule and within budget. The new building replaced the 50-plus year old toilet/shower building with a more user-friendly and environmentally efficient design. The new building design will result in lower operational costs.

State park and recreation officials are confident that this new "green" prototype design will set the future standard for new and rehabilitated state park and recreation area facilities, taking energy efficiency, sustainability and aesthetics into account as the standard design practice.

Grand Haven State Park campground is one of the most popular state-operated campgrounds, providing an excellent testing ground for the new design. Campers are encouraged to camp at Grand Haven State Park and try out this new facility, and provide feedback to park staff or Park Supervisor Patrick Whalen at 616-847-1309.

Grand Haven State Park is located at 1001 Harbor Ave. in Grand Haven. Grand Haven State Park is a very popular state park, so weekend camping for this summer is already full, but mid-week and September or October camping opportunities are still available. Camping reservations can be made on-line at www.midnrreservations.com, or by calling 1-800-44PARKS (7-2757).

All motor vehicles entering a state park or recreation area must display a Motor Vehicle Permit, available for purchase at the entrance. Cost is $24 for resident annual and $6 for resident daily. A non-resident annual is $29 and a non-resident daily is $8.