LARE Site Inventory and Analysis Questions and Answers

Question 1

A landscape architect is beginning the site analysis process for a proposed park on a large, undeveloped parcel of land.
Which of the following tasks represents the 'analysis' phase, as distinct from the 'inventory' phase?

Accepted Answer

Determining the areas most suitable for active recreation based on slope, drainage, and solar access.

Answer

Documenting the location and species of all existing trees over 6 inches in caliper.

Answer

Mapping the existing utility lines, such as water, sewer, and electrical.

Answer

Recording the current zoning classification and applicable setback requirements for the property.

Question 2

When evaluating a site's microclimate, which of the following factors would be most influential in creating a warm pocket that could support plants from a warmer hardiness zone?

Accepted Answer

A south-facing masonry wall that receives full sun.

Answer

A low-lying area where cold air settles.

Answer

A dense stand of evergreen trees on the north side of the property.

Answer

An open field exposed to prevailing northwesterly winds.

Question 3

A geotechnical report for a project site indicates a high water table and layers of compressible organic soil. Which of the following is the most significant implication for the landscape architect's design?

Accepted Answer

The project will likely require specialized and costly foundation designs for structures and pavements.

Answer

Plant selection will be limited to native species.

Answer

The site will have excellent natural drainage for stormwater management.

Answer

There will be no restrictions on the placement of heavy site amenities like large fountains or sculptures.

Question 4

During the site inventory for a property in a historic district, a landscape architect is required to pay special attention to legal and regulatory constraints. Which of the following items is a primary legal constraint that must be documented?

Accepted Answer

Zoning ordinances, easements, and deed restrictions.

Answer

The client's budget for the project.

Answer

The location of desirable views from the property.

Answer

The seasonal sun and shade patterns across the site.

Question 5

A landscape architect is designing a corporate campus and wants to create a comfortable outdoor plaza for employees. The site analysis reveals that the prevailing summer wind is from the southwest. To mitigate the wind's effect and create a sheltered space, which of the following is the most effective initial design strategy?

Accepted Answer

Orient the plaza on the northeast side of the main building.

Answer

Install a large, open-bottomed pergola in the center of the plaza.

Answer

Use light-colored paving materials to reflect solar radiation.

Answer

Specify only low-growing groundcovers and herbaceous perennials.

Question 6

Which of the following best distinguishes site analysis from site inventory?

Accepted Answer

Site inventory is the documentation of existing conditions, while site analysis is the interpretation of those conditions to identify opportunities and constraints.

Answer

Site inventory involves fieldwork, while site analysis is purely office-based work using GIS.

Answer

Site inventory is the process of creating the base map, while site analysis involves adding color and rendering.

Answer

Site inventory focuses on natural systems, whereas site analysis focuses on cultural and man-made systems.