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RETHINKING EXOTIC VS. NATIVE SPECIES IN SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPE

Within the field of plant ecology, the issue of using exotic or native species in designed landscapes seems to bring out the worst in people, not unlike debates over gun control. The concept of ecological restoration in an urban or suburban context is particularly problematic, given the abundance of pavement, road salt, reflected heat, air pollution and soil compaction that characterize our metropolitan centers. The critical question is not what plants grew there in the past, but which ones will grow there in the future? Based on 13 years at the Harvard Graduate School of Design, Peter Del Tredici has developed a three-step approach for landscape architects to cope with widespread environmental devastation and ecological uncertainy. First, acknowledge that heavy equipment used during construction inevitably compacts the surrounding soil to a density approaching concrete. Without adequate remediation of the compaction and drainage problems that abound in urban landscapes, invasive species often will be the only plants to survive. Second, don't limit planting designs to native species that once grew on the site. Sustainable landscapes are tolerant of the conditions that prevail on a given site. Finally, recognize, at some point in the design process, the ongoing need for maintenance on all constructed landscapes.
Landscape Architecture, Feb 06, p 46, by Peter Del Tredici.

DEVELOPING MARKET-BASED INCENTIVES FOR WATER CONSERVATION

Tampa Bay Water, an association of six public water utilities in central Florida, embarked on one of the most comprehensive demand-side water management programs in the U.S. The 5-year program invested discretionary funds into water reuse infrastructure, monetary incentives (rebates), conservation services and public education in an effort to defer capital expansion and operational costs. To justify the program, the present value of Best Management Practice (BMP) program costs were compared to the present value of benefits derived from water savings. A case study on the effort reveals that water suppliers are providing conservation incentives to consumers as a cost-effective alternative to expanding infrastructure capacity to meet the demands of population and economic growth. The study proposes a methodology for developing market-based initiatives to stimulate demand-side conservation. Research at the University of Florida's Center for Construction and Environment shows that consumer willingness-to-pay for green building alternatives varies widely between market sectors. As a result, water BMPs may be adopted without the need for an incentive in one market while requiring a significant rebate or other form of subsidy in another. Key components in the development of market based incentives include 1) characterizing water consumption by market segment (residential, commercial, industrial), 2) assessing the benefit-cost of BMPs (non-potable irrigation, water efficient landscape, low-flow clothes washer etc.), and 3) determining consumer willingness-to-pay for water conservation measures. The BMPs having the greatest water use reduction in single-family residential include: nonpotable irrigation; water efficient landscape; low-flow clothes washer; and low-flow toilets.

STUDY ANALYZES COSTS AND BENEFITS OF GREEN SCHOOLS

AIA TARGETS 50% FOSSIL FUEL REDUCTION IN BUILDINGS Gregory Kats and his team at Capital E have completed a study of green schools, applying similar methods and reaching the same conclusions as their 2003 report on the costs and financial benefits of green buildings. The study, entitled "National Review of Green Schools: Costs, Benefits and Implications for Massachusetts," analyzed cost and performance data for 30 schools, 12 in Massachusetts. On average, the study found that green schools are built at a premium of 1.5% to 2.5%, or about $4/ft2 ($40/m2). For this premium, the study identified a net present value benefit of $60 to $70/ft2. However, only about $15 of that accrues directly to the school, mostly from energy and water savings, improved teacher retention and lower healthcare costs. That $15 translates into nearly $200,000 per year of additional resources available for an average school (after any first-cost premium is paid for), according to Kats. The largest benefit in Kats' analysis is based on the presumed increased earning potential for students whose achievements improved by the high-performance schools. Due to limitations in the available data, the study's assumptions regarding energy savings, water savings and other benefits are mostly from simulations and predictions rather than from measured savings.
Environmental Building News, Feb 06, p 14, by Nadav Malin.

STUDY EXPLORES WHAT BRINGS SNOWMOBILIERS TO NATIONAL PARKS

A 2005 study builds on limited existing research about the recreational experiences of snowmobilers and on the ecological, social and economic implications of snowmobiling in Yellowstone National Park. In "The Appropriateness of Snowmobilers in National Parks: An Investigation of the Meanings of Snowmobiling Experiences in Yellowstone National Park," authors Mae Davenport and William Borrie report that their results challenge the thrill-seeking image of snowmobilers. They add that snowmobiling in Yellowstone affords highly meaningful recreational experiences, grounded in appreciating the park's unique natural features. After interviewing 65 snowmobilers in the park, the researchers concluded that snowmobilers view snowmobiling primarily as a way to travel longer distances, thereby maximizing exposure to wildlife, scenery and natural resources. Snowmobilers saw their activity in the park as a mode of experience rather than the experience in and of itself—they were in the park to experience the park and not to play around. People interviewed indicated that they wished their snowmobiles were quieter. Although some respondents questioned the biophysical impacts of snowmobiling, noting that wildlife seemed unaffected by their presence, 17 others were cognizant of the potential deleterious effects of noise. Respondents called on technology to make snowmobiles cleaner and quieter.
Landscape Architecture, Feb 06, p 64, by Jean Marie Cackowski and Sally Augustin.

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