 Birds soaring over Manchester’s City Hall may be a bit confused these days. The roof of the building was recently converted from its original asphalt to a grid of lush vegetation, making it the first “green roof” in the state. A green roof consists of vegetation and soil, or a growing medium, planted over a waterproofing membrane. Additional layers, such as a root barrier and drainage and irrigation systems may also be included.
Breathe New Hampshire helped fund the idea that was first introduced by the UNH Cooperative Extension Initiative in 2002. Dan Fortin, President/CEO of Breathe New Hampshire said, “Our organization is very pleased to be a part of this innovative project. Green roofs are increasing in popularity in our country and we couldn’t be happier about that. It is proven that green roofs improve the air quality.” That is certainly in keeping with Breathe New Hampshire’s mission of eliminating lung disease in the Granite State. Green roofs were first introduced in Germany in the 1960’s. Their popularity is growing throughout the rest of Europe and Canada because of the many benefits of changing rooftops from traditional materials to vegetation mini eco-systems. In addition to being much more esthetically pleasant than a traditional rooftop, green roofs reduce heating and cooling energy loads of the building; reduce the urban island effect; increase the roof life span; reduce storm water run-off; filter air and water pollutants; and provide a natural habitat to a variety of creatures great and small. “We are very encouraged by the many ways various New Hampshire businesses and organizations are stepping up their efforts to create a healthier environment. Breathe New Hampshire has a vested interest in ensuring healthy air for all New Hampshire residents. We appreciate the efforts of others in achieving our goal,” said Dan Fortin. Other funders include the UNH Cooperative Extension in partnership with the N.H. Division of Forests and Lands and USDA Forest Service; The McLane Law Firm; TFMoran Inc.; Manchester Development Corporation; Lavallee Brensinger Architects Fund of the N.H. Charitable Foundation, Manchester Region; Weston Solutions, Inc.; N.H. Dept. of Environmental Services; Anonymous Fund of the N.H. Charitable Foundation; and SEPP - Enterprise Fund, administered by the City of Manchester Environmental Protection Division
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