Howard Lake Honored with Blazing Star Award

Conservation MN honored three as winners of the 2023 Blazing Star Award, including the BKV-designed Howard Lake Library – Minnesota’s first net-zero energy library.

In recognition of local governments’ work to protect the great outdoors, Conservation Minnesota launched the Blazing Star Award in 2022. The blazing star is a perennial plant native to Minnesota and evokes the idea of blazing trails and adaptability, with this award acknowledging local governments that engage in exciting and innovative projects that advance conservation, climate resilience, environmental protection, or outdoor recreation opportunities. Out of 21 projects submitted by local governments across the state, Conservation MN honored three as winners of the 2023 Blazing Star Award.

The new Howard Lake Library features active and passive solar energy, locally sourced, sustainable, and recycled materials, high-efficiency water fixtures, and native plant landscapes. Located near two parks, the library will serve as a central hub for their community, providing learning, safety, and a greater sense of belonging for this city of 2,500 people. Congratulations to our Howard Lake client and design team!