CLA Site Analysis & Planning 5

Question 1

Which GIS data layer would a landscape architect most likely use to identify wetland boundaries during initial site analysis?

Accepted Answer

National Wetlands Inventory (NWI)

Answer

The USFWS National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) provides mapped wetland and deepwater habitat data, serving as a primary screening tool for wetland identification.

Question 2

A project site has three distinct microclimate zones. The coolest zone is most likely located:

Accepted Answer

In low-lying areas where cold air settles

Answer

Cold air is denser than warm air and drains downslope to collect in low-lying depressions and valleys, creating frost pockets and cooler microclimates.

Question 3

A site analysis reveals that a large portion of a property lies within a 100-year floodplain. The landscape architect should primarily:

Accepted Answer

Treat the floodplain as a constrained zone and integrate it as open space or stormwater feature

Answer

Floodplains provide important ecological and hydrological functions; best practice — and often regulation — requires treating them as constrained areas suited for open space, habitat, or stormwater management.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of a 'land use compatibility analysis' in site planning?

Accepted Answer

To assess whether proposed uses are appropriate given surrounding land uses and potential conflicts

Answer

Land use compatibility analysis evaluates how well a proposed project fits with neighboring uses, identifying potential conflicts such as noise, traffic, or incompatible activities.

Question 5

A site's carrying capacity in an ecological planning context refers to:

Accepted Answer

The maximum level of use a site can sustain without significant ecological degradation

Answer

Ecological carrying capacity defines the upper limit of human use or development that a site can accommodate while maintaining its ecological integrity and function.

(CLA) Certified Landscape Architect Practice Test

(CLA) Certified Landscape Architect Practice Test

CLA Site Analysis & Planning 5