Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
2.
Grading is necessary to reshape existing terrain not only to accommodate
intended uses or built facilities but also to redirect surface water flow away
from areas where the water is not desirable. Surface water can also be col-
lected for some purposes, such as irrigation; allowed to infiltrate into the
underground aquifer; or, as is more common, directed to a storm water sys-
tem. See Figure 2.2.
Figure 2.2
Bioswale for recharging surface water runoff to aquifer, Phoenix, AZ
3.
Grading and the creating of landforms can be employed to achieve an aes-
thetic goal and to help shape and create outdoor spaces as part of a com-
plete design scheme. Such an outdoor design might include plantings, walls,
water features, and hardscape. See Figure 2.3.
4.
Grading and the creating of landforms can achieve specialized purposes
such as water conservation and management or access control and site
security. Figure 2.4 shows a small lake created by the landscape architect as
a source of irrigation water, for aesthetic reasons as well as to provide a cool-
ing effect in a hot, dry climate.
