LASN is a photographically oriented, professional journal featuring topics of concern and state-of-the-art projects designed or influenced by registered Landscape Architects.
Issue link: https://landscapearchitect.epubxp.com/i/923105
Over a typical year, the tank will fill up and drain at least five times, saving 11,000 gallons of water. Overflow from the tank will follow a swale along a meandering, gently sloping course lined with plants and rocks over the course of 250 feet; the water will have the chance to soak into the soil and/or be absorbed by the plants around it. Existing redwood and crepe myrtle trees have been preserved as anchors for the new landscape design. The selection of plant material has been carefully vetted for long-term performance. It is also appropriate for the public, civic setting and will provide year-round visual interest as well as habitat value. 72 Landscape Architect and Specifier News Russsian River-Friendly Landscaping Best Practices ( rrwatershed.org ) 1) Landscape locally -Select/evaluate site carefully -Assess soil and test drainage -Survey/protect flora & fauna -Consider potential for fire -Use local, natural plant communities 2) Landscape for less to the landfill -Select appropriate plants -Keep plant debris on site -Prune selectively and properly -Water and fertilize judiciously -Use goats/sheep for weed control and creating firebreaks -Use salvaged items and recycled content materials -Reduce and recycle waste -Separate plant debris for clean green discounts 3) Nurture the soil -Remove and store topsoil before grading -Protect soil from compaction -Defend against erosion -Amend the soil with compost before planting -Mulch regularly -Aerate compacted soils -Feed soils naturally -Avoid synthetic, quick release fertilizers -Minimize use of chemical pesticides 4) Conserve water -Create drought resistant soils with compost and mulch -Grow drought-tolerant California native or Mediterranean plants -Minimize or eliminate the lawn -Implement hydrozoning—group plants by water needs -Design for onsite rainwater collection, recycled and/or graywater use -Design/install high efficiency irrigation -Install dedicated meter to monitor landscape water -Manage irrigation per need -Maintain irrigation system (every drop counts) -Request irrigation audit 5) Conserve energy -Shade buildings to moderate temperatures -Reduce the heat island effect -Shade air conditioners -Design lighting carefully -Choose and maintain equipment for fuel conservation -Specify low embodied energy materials 6) Protect water and air quality -Use integrated pest management -Eliminate high input decorative lawns -Minimize site disturbance -Choose and maintain your materials, equipment and vehicles carefully -Keep soil and organic matter where it belongs -Minimize impervious surfaces -Plant and protect trees -Maintain and manage the irrigation system carefully -Design a system to capture and treat water 7) Create and protect wildlife habitat -Diversity -Provide water and shelter -Use organic pest management -Conserve or restore natural areas and wildlife corridors