ECO-HABITATS - USING ECOLOGICAL DESIGN FOR AMPHIBIAN AND REPTILE HABITATS ON GOLF COURSES: CASE STUDY AT LANGSTON GOLF COURSE, WASHINGTON, D.C.

Habitat restoration is useful to address the loss of amphibian and reptile habitats in the built environment. Golf courses provide the opportunity to implement best management practices and best development practices features to improve habitats for amphibians and reptiles. In addition, golf courses, through creative programming offer opportunities to provide education about amphibians and reptiles. This research project focuses on the application of vernal pools and regenerative stream conveyance (RSC) interventions for Langston Golf Course, a historically designated golf course in Washington, D.C. In addition, the implementation of additional programming allows for educational opportunities about amphibians and reptiles for expanded variety of users beyond golfers

Brookside Gardens Stroll for Wellness

Final project for LARC489Z Special Topics (Spring 2018). University of Maryland, College Park.The positive benefits of exposure to nature and green spaces related to wellness are well-documented. A structured walk in a garden or park setting, in combination with reflective journaling, has proven to be invaluable and life-changing to community members suffering from the adverse effects of stress and trauma suffering from grief, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and other types of trauma, all of which are becoming more prevalent in our society. The Morikami Japanese Gardens in Florida, the Bloedel Reserve in Washington, and other publicly accessible gardens have developed these types of guided wellness programs. These are often referred to as prescribed or suggested “strolls” that are mapped for improving mindful, active, and engaged contact with nature. A therapeutic walking program promotes well-being and resilience in the face of adversity. With the large population of veterans in Maryland communities, plus countless local medical providers serving clients suffering from a diverse challenges, Brookside Gardens is located and poised to serve these populations and improve wellness outcomes for a range of Maryland and regional residents. As Brookside Gardens is poised to expand on health and wellness programming, it has sought the assistance of the University of Maryland’s Partnership for Action Learning in Sustainability (PALS). PALS assists local governments while offering valuable real-world problem-solving experience for graduate and undergraduate students. In spring 2018, the Landscape Architecture Program collaborated with PALS and Brookside Gardens to create a Special Topics Course (LARC 489Z) that offered research and technical support for the proposed “Stroll for Wellness” program. There are many populations near the Gardens who might benefit from guided wellness programming, including those suffering from trauma, depression or chronic illness. A growing body of research has documented nature’s healing effects and Brookside Gardens offers a safe, inspirational setting where visitors can immerse themselves in nature with the kinetic experience of moving through garden spaces, a resource that can spark creativity and introspection.Montgomery Count

Locust Grove Nature Center

Final project for LARC642 Graduate Landscape Architecture Studio III (Fall 2017). University of Maryland, College Park.Today Locust Grove Nature Center is housed in a small, aging retrofit facility adapted from a toboggan run that opened its doors in 1972, operating for a few short years before shuttering in 1977. The current demand for year-round programming and multi-functional event space far exceeds Locust Grove’s capacity. The location of the nature center uniquely positions Locust Grove to serve as an in-demand local resource that draws a diverse array of visitors from across Montgomery County. One of its primary advantages is its proximity to Cabin John Creek, and thus also its position within the greater Cabin John Regional Park. The ecological amenities of Cabin John include unique natural landforms and wildlife habitats associated with Maryland’s Piedmont region. Locust Grove’s trail system and grounds present the rich story of natural heritage located well within the urbanized boundaries of the county. Another significant benefit of Locust Grove’s location is its position along Democracy Boulevard near the I-270 interchange with the Capital Beltway. This immediate proximity to the Beltway, the backbone of D.C. metro area’s circulation, provides convenient access from most areas of Montgomery County and the greater D.C. metro region. Locust Grove has excellent visibility from this major arterial road which is unique among comparable nature centers in this region. In addition, its topography is naturally suited for supporting a large structure. Locust Grove has ample acreage of high quality, gently sloped land available to suit a major new facility that could meet the growing demand for this type of facility. This report reviews a series of high profile nature centers recently built across the United States including two prominent facilities located in Maryland: Robinson Nature Center in Howard County and Irvine Nature Center in Baltimore County. It also examines the natural features of Cabin John Park to identify opportunities and constraints related to nature center design. Additionally, one chapter is devoted to reviewing important design standards including site accessibility, vehicular circulation, stormwater management, and habitat restoration. Finally, three alternative conceptual designs are presented as an exercise in generating idea for the design of a new nature center for Locust Grove.Montgomery Count