LARE Site Inventory and Analysis Flashcards

Which soil test result is most useful for determining the appropriate amendments before establishing a native plant restoration on a degraded urban site?

Answer: Soil texture, pH, and organic matter content

Texture, pH, and organic matter directly affect nutrient availability and plant establishment, guiding targeted amendments for restoration planting.

A drainage basin study shows a time of concentration (Tc) of 45 minutes. If the design storm is increased from a 10-year to a 25-year event, how does the peak runoff rate change, assuming the same Tc?

Answer: It increases because higher rainfall intensity produces more runoff

A higher return-period storm delivers greater rainfall intensity, directly increasing the peak runoff rate calculated by the Rational Method (Q = CiA).

When conducting a visual inventory, the term 'borrowed landscape' refers to:

Answer: Distant views incorporated into a site design without owning that land

Borrowed landscape is a design concept where off-site scenery is framed and integrated into the perceived composition.

A site inventory identifies a population of a state-listed threatened plant species. What is the landscape architect's most appropriate first response?

Answer: Consult with the state natural heritage program and adjust site design to avoid impacts

State natural heritage programs provide guidance on protected species, and the preferred design response is avoidance, not removal or relocation without agency consultation.

On a site analysis plan, a 'regulating line' derived from existing site geometry is used primarily to:

Answer: Organize new design elements in compositional harmony with existing features

Regulating lines connect existing site features and guide placement of new elements to create visual order and contextual fit.

Which of the following best describes the purpose of a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA)?

Answer: Reviewing historical records to identify recognized environmental conditions (RECs)

A Phase I ESA involves documentary research and site reconnaissance to identify RECs — it does not include sampling, which is Phase II.

A microclimate analysis reveals that a courtyard between two tall buildings experiences high wind speeds at pedestrian level due to the Venturi effect. Which design strategy best mitigates this condition?

Answer: Plant dense evergreen windbreaks perpendicular to prevailing winds

Dense evergreen windbreaks interrupt airflow and reduce wind speeds at grade, providing effective year-round protection in the courtyard.