Functional design opportunities for water conservation through native landscape restoration in southwestern Idaho, U.S.A.

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Authors
Grambo, Andrew A.
Advisor
Smith, Leslie H.
Issue Date
2004
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (M.L.A.)
Department
Department of Landscape Architecture
Other Identifiers
Abstract

This creative project inspected the design of water conserving landscapes by restoring native vegetation. Water conserving design principles discovered in the background research were applied to the redesign of the Old Fort Boise Park in Parma, Idaho. Important issues that were explored included discussing the need for water conserving landscape designs that result in functional spaces that meet the needs of intended users. The main focus of water conservation was implemented by using native plants that typically require less water than non-native species. The project developed a park master plan that could demonstrate to Idaho residents that native plants, when carefully sited, result in lower maintenance, aesthetically pleasing visual qualities, environmentally sensitive performances and could be integrated into landscapes on private or public properties. Rather than viewing the Idaho native plants as unattractive and dull, this project explored the idea that under cultivation and as part of the site character a carefully designed water conserving naturalized landscape has a beauty unsurpassed by traditional landscapes. The park redesign also employed educational and interpretive systems wherein native plants were highlighted and identified. These educational and interpretive systems could assist park users, especially local residents, in familiarizing themselves with many of the beautiful native species that are common in the surrounding deserts, prairies, hills and mountains. The creative project examined one particular site, while it developed principles and concepts applicable to other sites throughout the Great Basin Region.

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