Bensonwood finalizes work on new Beaver Brook program building

Hollis, NH Bensonwood, a leader in high-performance offsite construction, has completed the design, fabrication, and installation of the program building at Beaver Brook Association, a conservation and environmental education center. This project completion adds to Bensonwood’s long history of sustainable building supporting mission-driven conservation and education centers across New England. Bensonwood completed the Monadnock Conservancy, raising the full building structure onsite in just three days, as well as the Grey Rocks Conservation Center, home to the Newfound Lake Region Association headquarters in Hebron, NH. In 2011, Bensonwood completed the Bosarge Family Education Center, Coastal Maine Botanical Garden’s first LEED Platinum and Net Zero public building. 

Beaver Brook’s new program and education building exemplifies what is possible when design, manufacturing, and construction are aligned around sustainability, efficiency, and community impact. Beaver Brook chose Bensonwood for the team’s commitment to sustainability, approach to a tailored design, and the limited environmental impact on the physical site. The cost efficiency and speed of construction also supported the project’s campaign goals. Bensonwood manufactured the highly efficient, wood-framed panels offsite at its Keene facility. The panels arrived fully insulated with dense-pack cellulose and pre-installed windows, reducing material waste, improving quality control, and ensuring precise installation of air and weather barriers. 

The new facility marks a major milestone for Beaver Brook Association and a strategic investment in its dual mission of conservation and education. According to executive director Lindsay Jones, the organization has raised more than $3.5 million of the $4.1 million goal for Phase I of this project, the largest fundraising effort in its history. This is thanks to years of support from board members, donors, and the broader community. The new building represents the first phase of a larger facilities plan and will provide modern classroom space to support Beaver Brook’s expanding environmental education programs across its 2,200 acre outdoor classroom in Hollis. Leaders emphasized that the sustainable structure will not only house programming but also serve as a living example of the conservation principles the organization has taught for 60 years. 

“This project ensures that future generations can learn, explore, and find inspiration in nature. By creating a space that welcomes people onto the land and supports high-quality environmental education, we’re strengthening Beaver Brook’s ability to serve this community for decades to come,” said Beaver Brook Executive Director, Lindsay Jones. “Beaver Brook has been connecting people to the natural world for more than 60 years. This new education center reflects the community’s commitment to that mission and ensures that the next generation will have a place to learn, explore, and develop a lifelong relationship with nature.” 

“Working with Bensonwood has been an incredible partnership. They helped us bring a long-held vision to life while respecting the landscape and the daily rhythm of our programs, all while incorporating forward-thinking sustainable technology that aligns perfectly with Beaver Brook’s values.” 

“Bensonwood is honored to have been involved in this milestone project for both Beaver Brook and the greater Hollis community,” said Amanda Nelson, Architect for Bensonwood. “The missions of our two organizations are closely aligned, making this a natural partnership from the start. We have greatly enjoyed working with the Beaver Brook team and are delighted to support the growth of their educational programs through the creation of a modern, purpose-built facility”. 

Following three years of dedicated planning and early leadership support for the $7.1M capital campaign, Beaver Brook is now launching the public phase of its initial $4.1 million Phase I campaign. This milestone will be highlighted at the annual Spring Dinner Fundraiser on Friday, April 17, 2026, at LaBelle Winery, where community members, business leaders, and conservation champions will come together to celebrate progress and help propel the campaign forward.