Ed McMahon discusses the growing interest in planning for systems of green space. Joel S. Russell Land trusts provide an important resource for communities concerned about preserving open space and natural resources. With sidebars highlighting a dozen land trusts from across the country. Noted conservation planner Randall Arendt has developed a framework for subdivision review that encourages the preservation of open space and natural areas, while enhancing the market value of development. Arendt's model ordinance reverses the standard subdivision review process by focusing first on the conservation of natural areas and last on the detailed layout of houselots.
Sidebars explore key aspects of the model ordinance.
Trees also increase property values and can help boost a community's economic development. Conventional large-lot zoning has contributed to the consumption of vast amounts of open space and farmland. But too often tree planting programs are based on poor planning and faulty assumptions. An introduction to some of the basics of planning for trees. On the Value of Trees and Open Space by Elizabeth Brabec Trees and open space not only benefit the environment, but property values as well.