LASN is a photographically oriented, professional journal featuring topics of concern and state-of-the-art projects designed or influenced by registered Landscape Architects.
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108 Landscape Architect and Specifier News I n f o r m a t i o n R e q u e s t # 5 4 0 shall have at least 50 percent of tree canopy within the interior. A list of species of native or Texas adapted species is recommended for all replacement plantings. Parking lots shall be buffered from public street view with shrubs at the rate of one shrub per three linear feet of exposed perimeter. Tree measurement for existing trees is taken by tree stand and individual trees. They are measured by DBA (diameter at breast height) on a sliding scale: 1=Less than 8 inches diameter 2=Between 8 and 16 inches diameter 3=Between 16 and 25 inches diameter 4=More than 25 inches in diameter Canopy size varies from 600 sq. ft. to 1,800 sq. ft., depending on tree growth potential. Habitat protection is encouraged by this code. The incentive is to allow a one-half canopy credit for all understory plant materials preserved within tree stands. Replacement trees shall be 3-inch caliper and shall take place within street preservation zones, boundary line buffers, within or around parking lots and within tree preservation easements within subdivision developments. Tree surveys are required by a city-registered urban forest professional. Landscape plans shall show trees to be removed, replaced, and planted along with the minimum canopy standards and calculations. A licensed landscape architect shall prepare landscape plans. Sustainable Urban Forest Canopy The Conroe Urban Forest Technical Manual is a relatively new approach to tree preservation standards by requiring a minimum canopy over all development. The city understands this type of standard is a measure of good site design. The tree ordinance in Conroe is a well thought out example of how to preserve a minimum urban forest. The preservation of this canopy is a step toward a more sustainable future. A well stocked diverse, canopy provides many environmental benefits. Readers may contact the author at lsugreenlaws@aol.com, or call Abbey Associates Landscape Architecture at 225.766.0922. Left The Conroe, Texas Urban Forestry Technical Manual ( http://tinyurl.com/ ptsdq76 ) establishes specific technical regulations, standards and specifications for preservation/replacement of the canopy; maintenance of protected trees; tree surveys; criteria for determining when a tree is unsafe; and best management practices for replacement of trees and survival of trees affected by construction activity. Drawing: abbey assoCiaTes Ordinances (Continued from page 14)