LARE Stewardship and Design Principles Flashcards

In landscape grading design, a 2% minimum slope away from building foundations is primarily intended to:

Answer: Ensure positive drainage that prevents water intrusion into structures

Positive drainage away from foundations at 2% minimum prevents water from pooling against structures and causing moisture damage.

Which of the following best describes the design principle of 'hierarchy' in landscape architecture?

Answer: Establishing a clear system of primary, secondary, and tertiary spaces and elements that guides user experience

Hierarchy organizes spaces and elements into a system of relative importance that helps users understand and navigate the landscape.

A landscape architect is evaluating a brownfield site for redevelopment. Which stewardship action is most critical before design begins?

Answer: Conducting Phase I and Phase II environmental site assessments to identify contamination

Environmental site assessments are essential to identify contamination on brownfields before any design or construction decisions are made.

Which stormwater management approach best supports groundwater recharge in a suburban residential development?

Answer: Incorporating permeable paving, bioswales, and rain gardens to promote infiltration

Permeable surfaces and infiltration features allow stormwater to percolate into the soil, replenishing groundwater rather than running off.

The principle of 'genius loci' (spirit of place) most directly informs which phase of landscape design?

Answer: Site analysis and programming, where the designer interprets the site's unique character to guide design intent

Genius loci is discovered during site analysis and programming, shaping the conceptual design response to the site's existing identity.

What is the primary ecological benefit of incorporating wildlife corridors into a regional park master plan?

Answer: Connecting fragmented habitats to allow species movement, gene flow, and ecological resilience

Wildlife corridors link isolated habitat patches, enabling animals to migrate, find mates, and maintain genetic diversity essential for long-term species survival.

A landscape architect must recommend a slope stabilization strategy for an eroding hillside in a wildfire-prone area. Which approach best balances stewardship and safety?

Answer: Revegetate with fire-resistant native groundcovers and shrubs that establish deep root systems

Native fire-resistant vegetation stabilizes soil through deep rooting, reduces wildfire risk, and supports local ecology better than hard engineering alone.