Land8: Landscape Architects Network

The NY Upstate Chapter of the ASLA is teaming with the NY State AIA for the first time ever to put a JOINT conference together! Sustainability is a particular topic that is HOT on both arenas. Please feel free to let me know if there are people interested in presenting at the conference regarding the SSI to LEED roll out, or to a particularly…[Read more]

Has anybody heard when the scores from December test are going to be released? The website says Feb 19.

Hello all,

I am a Landscape Architect / Designer based in Shanghai. I’ve joined this group because I am seriously interested in undertaking the PPE to become a professional member of HKILA.
Does anyone here have any experience with gaining this qualification, or similar aspirations? If so I would really value the chance to chat with you to learn…[Read more]

Kevin,
As you are aware there are different sources useful for different type of projects especially nowadays when a lot of different companies are registered in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.
Could you please state something for your project/s and I will try to find you some information. I mean type of project, size, approximate cost, timeframe, location…[Read more]

Feel free to use the group’s forum to post questions and discussion topics. Just click the “+ Start Discussion” link.

Thanks!
Andrew

Greetings–

While I do not live in the middle east I am working on projects in Qatar and Abu Dhabi and am trying to get a sense of how to proceed in a meaningful way. I’ve worked abroad before and have had positive and negative experiences with trying to be as ‘local’ as possible. So far my impression of Qatar is to be sensitive to the climate…[Read more]

Thank you Eric for your feedback – invaluable information since many have been asking about the LEED GA exam.

Charles,
Perhaps they are hiring knowledgable Landscape Architects? Clearly they need help.

Just sat for the GA Exam and passed on the first attempt. It’s definitely distilled down from the old version of the exams. From my perspective the LEED GA is a great credential for LAs to have the distinction, but without having to go through the specialty portions that are beyond our typical work. Sustainable Sites is where I’m placing my emphasis.

My civil engineer handed me a brochure on the Filterra Bioretention System which appears to be a vault, filled with gravel, sand and a little peat moss that takes in and filters storm water. The vault is topped with a tree grate where you plant a plant from the recommended list provided by Filterra. Has anyone used this system? They recommend that…[Read more]

In response to John’s question “how would you propose to reduce emissions and increase sequestration through design” in addition to my comments below about how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions – landscapes can also play an active role in sequestering carbon through thoughtful plant selection and soil stewardship. Research has shown that…[Read more]

I believe the solution is to first accept the dual responsibility built landscapes hold in both causing environmental degradation AND protecting and restoring the ecosystem services we depend upon.

I agree with David, we can not and should not eliminate turf completely from our landscapes. There are many scenarios where mowed lawn is the best…[Read more]

I have not read the article, Heather, David and Reid, but I think the basic point is good one — maintenance should be consideration in designing a “sustainable residential landscape.” Even here in the SW, we will design what we think is a more sustainable landscape, and put in a water harvesting swale with cobbles. As it turns out the maintenance…[Read more]

David your are correct!

@Reid – Hahahahahahahahahahaha!

I love to laugh out loud! It’s good for the body. Relieves stress, improves circulation.

Stupid Article!

This study also “compare(d) carbon sequestration to nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide emissions from lawn grooming practices.”

I have news for anyone willing to listen. Lawn maintenance doesn’t produce carbon “di”oxide emissions. Lawn maintenance produces carbon “mon”oxide. Carbon monoxide produces carbon dioxide which in turn is used by plants…[Read more]

From the article: “It’s impossible for these lawns to be net greenhouse gas sinks because too much fuel is used to maintain them,” Townsend-Small concluded.

So what’s the solution? That’s what I want to know. Should we eliminate athletic fields and play completely? What then shall we do with those that have no place to play and engage in athletic…[Read more]

Urban “Green” Space may lead to Global Warming

Interesting article about the importance of extending sustainable practices to the maintenance of our landscapes. If the implications of maintenance requirements are not considered, the benefits of sustainable design practices may be lost. I think this article also highlights the advantage of having…[Read more]

Phil,

Ditto Dan comments on experience, common sense and to use your company history on previous Construction estimates. I would add to his list, network(social) with local contractors and ask them for their input. Some will be glad to help out and others may not, you never know until you ask. Good Luck