Environmental Sustainability & Management Flashcards

Which stormwater management technique uses shallow, vegetated channels to slow runoff and promote infiltration?

Answer: Bioswale

Bioswales are vegetated, shallow channels designed to slow stormwater runoff and filter pollutants through soil and plant uptake.

The LEED credit category most directly related to site ecology and habitat protection is:

Answer: Sustainable Sites

The Sustainable Sites category in LEED addresses site ecology, habitat, open space, stormwater, and heat island reduction.

A landscape architect specifying native plants for a restoration project should prioritize plants sourced from which origin?

Answer: Local ecotype seed sources

Local ecotype plants are genetically adapted to the specific regional conditions and support native wildlife most effectively.

Which federal regulation requires landscape architects to assess wetland impacts before obtaining a permit for site grading near waterways?

Answer: Clean Water Act Section 404

CWA Section 404 requires a permit from the Army Corps of Engineers before discharging fill material into waters of the U.S., including wetlands.

Urban heat island effect is best mitigated in a parking lot design by:

Answer: Installing pervious concrete and shade trees

Pervious concrete reduces heat storage and trees provide shade, both lowering surface and ambient temperatures in parking areas.

A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) primarily involves:

Answer: Review of records, site inspection, and interviews

Phase I ESA is a non-intrusive assessment based on historical records review, visual site inspection, and interviews to identify recognized environmental conditions.

Which soil amendment is most effective for improving water retention in sandy, drought-prone soils?

Answer: Biochar

Biochar improves water and nutrient retention in sandy soils by increasing cation exchange capacity and creating micro-pore structures.