Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
be appropriate to remove species such as a eucalyptus and provide a native tree, such as
a mesquite, which can provide cover, food, and nesting resources for native birds. From
a design standpoint, existing vegetation at the site level also indicates a potential starting
point for selection of additional plant species and placement.
22.2.3 Analysis of Other Resources
Climate, topography, and soils also influence site appropriateness and should be considered
at each level of analysis. For example, topography can be associated with significant
variation in native vegetation communities (i.e., a watershed basin) at a larger scale and
enhance water catchment or create a warm microsite for an area. In addition, knowledge
about variation in rainfall patterns and amounts for a region, erosion potential, and
general soil conditions provide additional information relating to the site's capacity and
hence likely success of a design for a particular site. At this point the designer is prepared
to initiate design development of the wildlife habitat.
22.2.4 Development of the Design
Following completion of the site analysis, the design process begins with development of
a program and conceptual plan for the selected site. The program includes the constraints
and opportunities of the site, as indicated by the site analysis, and takes into account the
needs of wildlife viewers (if they are involved in the process). For example, questions about
whether viewing areas are desired and what type of wildlife the user wishes to attract are
addressed in this phase. The conceptual plan involves the general arrangement of design
elements such as plants, viewing areas, and the circulation of users through the proposed
habitat. The next phase of design development focuses on the specific requirements for the
various design elements.
22.3 Design Guidelines
Designs for wildlife should emphasize the selection of habitat elements, primarily
plants that focus on providing shelter, food, nesting spots, and water. However, these
requirements can easily accommodate an aesthetic focus in addition to the creation
of wildlife habitat. Following are some simple guidelines for creating an effective and
attractive wildlife habitat:
1. Arrange plants in large groupings : Large groupings of plants will provide the oppor-
tunity to create layering of plant species from tall, peripheral, overstory trees and
large shrubs to the smaller shrubs, accents, and ground covers (Figure 22.1).
This arrangement is pleasing to the eye due to its natural sequential appear-
ance from tall to low-growing species, and such layering provides a variety of
shelter and nesting spots for wildlife.
2. Create vertical, horizontal, and seasonal variety : Using a diverse selection of plants
will provide food for a longer period of time throughout the year, attract more
species, and will create visual interest in the habitat.
Search WWH ::




Custom Search