JENKINS-WAGGONER GREENHOUSES

Founded in 1875, the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) is the first institution of its kind in the nation. In addition to its historic New Haven campus, CAES maintains several research sites throughout the state. The newly renovated Jenkins-Waggoner Greenhouses support plant pathologists and entomologists working in the adjacent Jenkins-Waggoner Laboratory, providing a modern, flexible environment for agricultural research.

Originally constructed in 1940, the two greenhouse structures had reached the end of their useful life. As part of the Connecticut Department of Administrative Services’ Capital Projects program, CWA was commissioned to comprehensively renovate and modernize the facilities. The goal was to transform the greenhouses—functioning as research laboratories—into state-of-the-art environments meeting twenty-first-century standards.

Renovations included replacing the dirt floors with durable concrete slabs, installing new single-thickness greenhouse glass, and adding thrip-proof insect screens at all openings. Heating, lighting, and environmental control systems were completely upgraded and integrated into an automated system that operates roof vents, windows, exhaust fans, lighting, and heating equipment. New adjustable benches and custom sinks provide maximum flexibility for a range of research activities.