The Missoula Federal Credit Union (MFCU) is setting itself apart among Missoula financial institutions as an environmentally responsible business, and as a pioneer of sustainable practices. For their new branch building on Russell Street, the MFCU set the goal of obtaining the highest possible level of LEED certification. LEED is a nationally recognized certification process for conservation-minded building and site design. Working alongside the lead firm MMW Architects, WGM Group provided civil engineering services for several aspects of the site design.
A greywater irrigation system designed by WGM Group redistributes collected greywater from sinks and dishwashers in the bank building for use in the landscape drip irrigation around the building perimeter. The greywater irrigation system is a hybrid between standard irrigation equipment and on-site wastewater treatment technology. The system is the first of its kind for a commercial building in Western Montana.
The drainage plan designed by WGM Group routes runoff from impervious areas to grass bioswales. These bioswales will provide treatment to the “first flush” of stormwater by breaking down pollutants with the microorganisms in the soil and plants. For larger storms, a unique inlet design allows stormwater to enter a dry well.
