Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
be familiar with, that are relevant to a specific project or project type.
The applicable requirements would be researched at the outset of a proj-
ect and would need to be addressed as part of the project programming
prior to commencing the initial site design phase. It is understood that
a professional landscape architect or other professional design service
provider is knowledgeable about this process and capable of conduct-
ing the necessary background research appropriate for the design ser-
vices being provided. In the case of a landscape architect, due diligence
research would include a thorough investigation of (1) relevant zoning
requirements, (2) design standards regarding the health, safety, and wel-
fare of the public or users, and (3) other governmental regulations such
as water quality, best management practices, and wetlands require-
ments. It is advisable that background research and site analysis be car-
ried out when starting a new site design project.
1.
Background research should also include verification of the project site legal
description, including property lines, location of servitudes and existing on-
and off-site utility services, rights-of-way such as roadways, and any other
legal or physical encumbrances that may be attached to the project site. Much
of this research is conducted in combination with the land surveyor and a land
title company. The owner is normally responsible for providing the property
legal description, although verification or due diligence by the landscape
architect can be time well spent. For topography information, a USGS quad
map or topographic survey prepared by a land surveyor should be consulted.
2.
Background research should include a code review to identify relevant laws,
rules, codes, and regulations governing the project site and proposed uses.
3.
Further useful background information to gather at the outset of a project
includes conducting an on-the-ground assessment of the site, including
photographic documentation highlighting existing physical features and
conditions. Soils, climate variations, sun angles, and slope are some of the
physical features that should be documented and assessed for their poten-
tial relevance to or influence on site design. See Figure 3.2-A.
4.
An aerial photograph (Google or other product) of project site and its con-
text should be obtained, providing context information such as existing
roads, buildings, tree and plant cover, and water features.
