The WSU ARS Plant Biosciences Research Building (PBRB) fosters collaboration through advanced research space supporting Hatch Projects by USDA ARS staff and WSU scientists. These projects focus on crop and weed management, pest reduction, plant productivity, and sustainability across the state’s agricultural systems.
Site improvements include vehicular and pedestrian pavement, a service area, and supporting infrastructure. The stormwater design reuses a system developed for the Plant Sciences Building parking lot, minimizing water quality treatment costs for the new ARS parking area. In addition to stormwater management, the ARS building’s foundation is supported on piles, requiring mass excavation for pile caps. Since the ARS building sits several feet lower than Johnson Hall, careful grading between phases was essential to ensure a smooth transition to the surrounding site and buildings. A retaining wall installed during demolition (Phase 1) made the building construction (Phase 2) less disruptive to the adjacent buildings and sites.
Photography © Sozinho Imagery