Jackson County Green Energy Park
Watch and learn as artists safely and efficiently harness the otherwise harmful greenhouse gases from the landfill to source the energy for their glass blowing, blacksmithing and pottery creations.
The Jackson County Green Energy Park (JCGEP) utilizes clean, renewable energy resources to encourage economic development, provide environmental protection, and offer educational opportunities that together will help lead towards a more sustainable future for Western North Carolina. Located in Dillsboro, JCGEP captures methane gas from the old town landfill, then uses the gas as fuel for a series of artisan studios. Tours of the park are available to the public and include a glassblowing demonstration, a walking lecture on the GEP’s renewable energy use and history, a visit to the ceramics kiln, and a blacksmithing demonstration when available.
Contact Information
Tours, Wed/Sat, 2 to 4 p.m.; Office Hours, Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For the latest updates, check the JCGEP on Facebook here.
JCGEP FEATURES:
Glass – The Glass Studio is one of the only hot shops in the world utilizing landfill methane gas as a fuel. Glass Studio space is available for rent.
Blacksmithing / Metals — The Metals Shop features the first blacksmith forges and art foundry ever fired on landfill gas. Metals Shop facilities and equipment are available for rent.
Ceramics – Our Anagama Kiln is modeled on ancient Japanese designs. The 100ft3 kiln is fired using wood and waste vegetable oil as fuels. The kiln is available for public firings several times throughout the year.
Gallery – The Art Gallery showcases the exquisite work created by our artists using renewable energy.
Sculpture Garden – The Sculpture Garden features work by the winners of the GEP sculpture competitions, along with other pieces by local artists. The GEP is proud to provide a place for artists to showcase their exceptional talents in sculpture creation.
Guided Tours – Public tours are offered on Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, 10 am – 3 pm; and at other times by appointment. Tours include a glassblowing demonstration, a walking lecture on the GEP’s renewable energy use and history, a visit to our ceramics kiln, and a blacksmithing demonstration when available.
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