Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home (Spring 2016)

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson South Dartmouth, MA Designers: Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington The Conway School Spring 2016

Project Overview Client Vision

Goals and Design Program

Bird Anderson and her family are planning to relocate for full-time residence in a new green building on her parents’ coastal property in South Dartmouth, Massachusetts, within the next ten to fifteen years.

Bird is committed to the stewardship of healthy, functioning ecosystems.

Recognizing an opportunity to start active vegetation management early, Bird has approached the Conway School seeking management recommenations and preliminary site designs.

Site a Second House

The Bird Family Home

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

In the 1960s, David and Jeanne Bird serendipitously acquired seven acres of land on Slocums Neck Peninsula. In their search for a home in the area, they had reached out to several landowners. When the owner of the property at 273 Jordan Road passed away, his lawyer found a letter the Birds had written and reached out to them, and they bought the property from the man’s estate in 1963.

The home on the land at the time was a “hurricane house”: a summer cabin constructed from driftwood that had washed up on the local shoreline after storms. For many years, the Bird family lived in Cambridge and used their South Dartmouth house primarily as a summer retreat.

In 2000, David and Jeanne moved to South Dartmouth year-round, and renovated the home to be suitable for colder temperatures. David Bird passed away in 2007, but Jeanne still lives full-time in the South Dartmouth home. Their daughter, Bird Anderson, will inherit the property.

• Site a second home on the property and design a landscape to maximize privacy, views, and comfortable outdoor spaces.

• Recommend green building techniques to minimize ecological impacts.

• Design for resilience in the face of climate change.

Create a Land Management Plan • Develop a management plan for improving the health of existing vegetation and for replanting areas that have problematic and declining vegetation.

• Identify area suitable for family-scale food production, including annual and perennial crops.

• Identify phases of development for planting.

Index of Sheets Analyses

Design and Recommendations

Project Overview ................................................................... 1

Green Building Principles ................................................

Neighborhood Context...........................................................

Context........................................................... 2

Design Alternative 1: Shared Driveway ............................... 14

Existing Conditions ................................................................ 3

Design Alternative 2: Two Driveways .................................. 15

Climate and Climate Change.................................................

Change................................................. 4

Vegetation Management and Phasing ................................ 16

Topography and Hydrology....................................................

Hydrology.................................................... 5

Invasive Species Management............................................

Management............................................ 17

Soils and Geology ................................................................. 6

Clearing and Revegetation .................................................. 18

Vegetation..............................................................................

Vegetation .............................................................................. 7

Planting................................................................................

Planting ................................................................................ 19

Wildlife ................................................................................... 8

Conceptual Planting Plans .................................................. 20

Views ..................................................................................... 9

Plant Palette: Trees ............................................................. 21

Access and Circulation ........................................................ 10

Plant Palette: Grasses and Shrubs ..................................... 22

Zoning and Subdivision ....................................................... 11

Plant Palette: Perennial Gardens ........................................ 23

Summary Analysis ............................................................... 12

Preliminary Cost Estimates ................................................. 24

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References and Credits ....................................................... 25 A pair of majestic beech trees stand across the driveway from the house.

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Project Overview

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Neighborhood Context A long agricultural history has left its mark on the landscape.

Boston

Providence

Dartmouth

In the 1920s, a proposal was brought forth to build an amusement park on Slocums Neck Peninsula. The owner of Barney's Joy Farm, who owned most of the peninsula, was instrumental in opposing the park’s construction. Eventually, Prospect Park was built in North Dartmouth; Slocums Neck was spared, and Demarest Lloyd passed the land down to his daughter, Angelica.

In 1953, three members of the Lloyd family—Angelica, Karen, and their mother, Katherine—gave a 224-acre parcel of land to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, which was named Demarest Lloyd State Park in honor of Angelica's and Karen's father. Its quiet, calm waters provide peaceful swimming opportunities and habitat for 15 rare and endangered species.

In 1971, Angelica Russell gave 240 acres of her coastal land to Audubon with a conservation restriction, creating Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary.

It was the first conservation restriction Massachusetts Audubon would manage. Written into the agreement was the provision that each of her children would be able to build a house; no further development would be allowed on the land. This forward-thinking move set a precedent for longterm conservation on the peninsula, and established Audubon’s presence in the area.

Cape Cod Slocums Neck

Martha's Vineyard Nantucket

Buzzards Bay

The Bird family property is located in Dartmouth, a coastal town in Southeastern Massachusetts.

It is east of Providence and south of Boston, and looks over Buzzards Bay to Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket.

Forward-thinking land management practices have established a culture of conservation in the area.

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Stone walls border and run through the property, a remnant of its agricultural past.

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Bird Property

Allens Pond

Buzzards Bay

An aerial view of Slocums Neck and the Buzzards Bay coastline.

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Historically, Dartmouth was an agricultural community and Slocums Neck was home to working dairy farms. Nearby Allens Neck Friends Meeting was once known as Bald Hill Meeting, since so much of the area had been cleared for farming that the area was “bald” of trees.

Stone walls, a hallmark of New England agriculture, line the property on three sides and run through it in a grid-like pattern.

The Birds’ property boundaries speak to the land’s agricultural history. The property is approximately triangle shaped, with a “tail” off its southwestern corner. Historically, this tail was created so that the otherwise-landlocked farmers of this land would have access to neighboring Allens Pond for the collection of seaweed to be used as fertilizer. It is known even today as “the cart path,” since the designation stated it must be “wide enough for a cart” to gather and carry seaweed.

Agriculture's legacy is also visible in the modern landscape. Many of the forests present in South Dartmouth are approximately the same age, reflecting land use changes during industrialization, when many farmers moved off their land. Agriculture is experiencing a resurgence, however.

The property immediately south of the Bird property is grazed by a herd of cattle, and there are numerous farms and nurseries in the area, many managed by a new generation of farmers.

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Conserved in Perpetuity Not Legally Conserved

Demarest Lloyd State Park

Bird Property Water

Allens Pond

Bird Property

Buzzards Bay

Nearly the entire coastline of the peninsula and numerous other properties in the area are conserved in perpetuity.

Neighborhood Context

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Existing Conditions Jo

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The home was originally built as a “hurricane house,” constructed from driftwood collected after storms. Originally a summer cabin, it was renovated in 2000 when David and Jeanne Bird made it their year-round home.

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The stand-alone garage houses two cars, and sits about 150 feet from the home.

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Stone walls, remnants of an agricultural past, run through the property and define its borders on three sides.

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The area immediately surrounding the home includes a large vegetable garden, specimen trees such as beech, dogwood, and magnolia, and carefully maintained perennial gardens.

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The home looks out to the south on a threeacre meadow dotted with trees, most of which are Eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana).

Once yearly, a steeplechase race passes through this area, using the jump built into the southern stone wall.

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Three areas of the property, once open pasture or orchard, have been overtaken by dense vegetation, dominated by invasive shrubs such as multiflora rose, bittersweet, and honeysuckle.

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The property is bordered to the southeast by Barney’s Joy Road, a private road maintained by the neighboring Russell family. The property also includes a cart path, a deeded right-of-way access to Allen’s Pond. The cart path is currently overgrown, but a path along the southern side is mowed by the neighbors.

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A backup generator, propane tank, and electricity meter are located northwest of the house. Other utilities include the well and the septic leach field.

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Dense Shrub Thicket

Private Drive

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The existing home

The driveway leads into the property from the dead end of Jordan Road. It is framed by carefully maintained shrubs and trees, including two large, old beech trees to the north of the home.

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Dense Shrub Thicket

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Jeanne Bird’s gardens

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

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To Barney's Joy Beach To Allen's Pond C

The view to the meadow, looking south over a stone wall

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Existing Conditions

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Climate and Climate Change Current Climate Conditions

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The Bird property is located on a windy, sunny peninsula bordered on three sides by Buzzards Bay. The wind and sun provide excellent opportunities for renewable energy capture, and proximity to the Bay makes the property a beautiful and welcoming place to live and host guests. However, intense exposure to wind, sun, and salt air can stress plants that are not adapted to live in the coastal zone.This may result in stunted growth or reduced lifespans. Since there is little topographic variation on the site, there is also little variation in microclimate. While trees and dense vegetation provide some shade, there is no significant difference in aspect or elevation between various parts of the site and so growing conditions for plants are uniform across the landscape.

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Left: The National Hurricane Center identifies areas that are likely to be inundated in the case of hurricane categories 1, 2, 3, and 4. The Bird property itself is not within any of these zones, although part of Barney's Joy Road and many of the surrounding properties are predicted to be affected.

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Below: FEMA identifies areas that are within predicted flood zones of a 100-year flood and areas that are at high flooding risk due to their proximity to the coast. Neither designation includes the Bird property, although neighboring properties and a portion of Barney's Joy Road lie within these risk areas.

Bird Property

Allens Pond

Climate Change

Hurricane Surge Inundation Zones

Category 3

Buzzards Bay

Elevation: Low Bird Property

Category 4 Water

Planning and Design Implications

A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

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Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home

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• The intense solar exposure on the property creates excellent opportunities for renewable energy capture, and since there is little microclimate variation, most of the property is suitable for solar panels.

• Trees and other wind breaks are needed to reduce wind speed on the site.

• The home can make use of resilient design principles. This includes choosing a site close to the property's high point to mitigate flood risk; situating most living spaces and utilities above the first floor; and using durable materials.

• Siting a driveway off Jordan Road may slightly reduce the risk of the property's access road flooding.

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Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Elevation: High

Category 2

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Hurricane surge inundation zones are areas designated by the National Hurricane Center (NHC). They are expected to flood in the case of a severe storm. The map at right shows areas that are predicted to flood in the case of a category 1, 2, 3, or 4 hurricane.

While the Bird property is not located in any of these zones, its proximity to currently designated flooding and hurricane inundation zones illustrates that it is likely to be affected, especially in the case of future severe flooding or storms. In addition to the risk on the property itself, it is important to understand access routes' risk of flooding; in a weather emergency, flooding may cut off emergency evacuation routes. Currently, access to the property is through a driveway at the end of Jordan Road, although it may be possible to build a new driveway from the private extension of Barney's Joy Road. According to FEMA and National Hurricane Center predictions, Barney's Joy Road appears to have slightly higher risk than Jordan Road of both flooding and hurricane storm surges, as it is located within FEMA's "Very High Risk Coastal Zone" and the NHC's predicted zone of inundation in the case of a Category 4 hurricane. Having an open evacuation route may be a factor when deciding which driveway is appropriate.

An additional factor affecting flooding and hurricane risk is sea level rise. Climate models developed by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) predict that by the end of the 21st century, sea level is likely to rise along 95% of the world's coastlines. The IPCC's models predict a rise of up to three feet by 2100 along some coastlines, which would have a substantial impact on the Slocums Neck landscape. In this case, the Bird property's flood and hurricane surge risk would rise.

Category 1

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Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

The Bird property’s proximity to the coast makes it vulnerable to predicted changes in climate, especially sea level rise, increased flood frequency, and increased storm frequency and severity. The maps at right show the property’s expected risks with regard to hurricane inundation and severe flooding.

FEMA designates two flood-risk areas on Slocums Neck Peninsula: VE: High Risk Coastal Area is a coastal area with at least a 1% risk of flooding annually, and a 26% chance of flooding at least once over the course of a 30-year mortgage.These areas also have additional risk of flooding from storm waves.

AE: 1% Risk of Flooding Annually is the expected floodplain for a 100-year flood. This refers to a flood whose severity is expected approximately once every 100 years. However, in recent years, “100-year” floods have been observed more frequently. This designation may change to indicate a higher risk.

Bird Property

Allens Pond

Buzzards Bay

FEMA Flood Risk Index AE: 1% Risk of Flooding Annually VE: High Risk Coastal Area Water

Elevation: High Elevation: Low Bird Property

Climate and Climate Change

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Topography and Hydrology Site

Context

The peak elevation of Slocums Neck peninsula is 45 feet above sea level. The Bird property high point is located slightly lower at 35 feet with the existing house and surrounding land closer to 30 feet elevation.

The property itself is very flat with slopes ranging between 0% and 5%.

Slopes less than 2% are of concern because they drain poorly and are prone to pooling. The Andersons indicate that there have been problems with water in the basement of the existing home. Pooling is especially problematic during the icy winter season or following a flood. Another aspect of such gentle slopes is that there is very little microclimate variation or protection from wind by landform alone.

House location, grading, and planting designs must all respond to landform and water movement in order to meet goals for climate change resilience in such a vulnerable location. Building a new house close to the high point can help avoid flood damage. Spot grading will be necessary to ensure that water flows away from all buildings. Trees on site already function as wind breaks and help to protect water quality by taking up nutrients and filtering pollutants.

Water from the Bird family property flows into Allens Pond and Buzzards Bay where it contributes to water quality.

Nitrogen pollution is the most harmful cause of poor water quality in Buzzards Bay. The Buzzards Bay Coalition has found that “nitrogen pollution is mainly the result of poorly planned development. When new homes are built far away from existing infrastructure, they add more septic systems, manicured lawns, and paved roads to our region.” It identifies residential septic systems as the single greatest source of nitrogen in waterways. Other sources of nitrogen include fertilizers applied to lawns and farm fields. Unlike centralized wastewater treatment plants, conventional septic systems (including those allowed under current state regulations) do not treat nitrogen. Nitrogen from the septic systems on Slocums Neck peninsula flows into groundwater and eventually reaches the Bay. Allens Pond currently has a low water-quality score according to the Coalition’s metric. In the management of their vegetation and the design of their new home, the Andersons have an opportunity to minimize their impact on water quality in Buzzards Bay.

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Bird Property High Point

High Point on Site 35'

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Peninsula High Point

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Image from savebuzzradsbay.org The graphic above illustrates how residential septic systems contribute to water pollution.

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Many actions on land can prevent pollution and improve water quality.

Forests and wetlands reduce nitrogen pollution by filtering water and absorbing excess nutrients. Conserving existing vegetation and replanting in disturbed soil is a good way to protect water quality. On-site wastewater treatment alternatives to conventional septic systems, such as composting toilets or septic technologies that do remove nitrogen on site, are available. Further research is needed to assess feasibility and compare options for onsite wastewater treatment.

1-foot contour lines

A USGS topographic map depicting Slocums Neck Peninsula, Allens Pond, and Buzzards Bay. The high point on the peninsula is located just southeast of the Bird property.

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Water flows away from the high point of the Bird property towards Allens Pond and Buzzards Bay.

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Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

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Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Topography and Hydrology

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Soils and Geology

Soil Test Results Soil samples from the property were submitted to the Soil and Plant Nutrient Testing Laboratory at UMass Amherst. Samples were taken from three locations: one in the meadow area, and two in the northeast thicket.

Soils All of the soils on the Bird property are fine sandy soam. This soil type is considered moderately well-drained, although it is prone to erosion, so should be stabilized whenever possible with shrubs, trees, or grass.

Fine sandy loam is often used agriculturally for crops or pasture. In Massachusetts, it is classified as a “Farm Soil of Statewide Importance” by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. It is considered suitable for farming since it is shallowly sloped, well-drained, and not too rocky.

While this soil is deep to bedrock, there is a shallow seasonal high water table. This is often associated with periodic basement flooding, which Jeanne Bird has reported in her home. When the new home is constructed, building slab-on-grade can help to prevent this problem from developing.

Additionally, the presence of a seasonal high water table often requires special septic design, which can be costly. The use of composting toilets and a greywater treatment system can avoid septic system malfunction, and prevent the septic system from negatively impacting water quality.

Observations • pH is low, indicating acidic conditions.

• Aluminum concentrations are extremely high.

• Levels of key plant nutrients, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, are low.

• Soil organic matter is relatively low.

• Nutrient levels are higher in the meadow than in the thicket.

Allens Pond

Implications

Surficial Geology

Buzzards Bay

Surficial geology at the site is thin glacial lodgment till, an unsorted mix of rocks and sediments deposited directly by glaciers as they moved or retreated. These rocks and sediments are a wide variety of sizes and shapes. Glacial till is common in New England due to the wide extent of the last glaciation. Since it is low in carbonate minerals, it tends to produce acidic soil. Nutrients and organic matter tend to move more quickly through coarse, acidic soils, so periodic soil remediation is often necessary.

Soil Type Fine Sandy Loam Beaches Gravelly Fine Sandy Loam

Soils on the property are fine sandy loam, a welldrained soil derived from glacial till. While this soil type is considered appropriate for agriculture due to its shallow slopes and good drainage, it is also acidic and therefore nutrients leach out quickly.

Some soil remediation is recommended to ensure the health of new and existing vegetation.

Design and Planning Recommendations

Peat Udipsamments

• Composting toilets and greywater treatment systems are likely to reduce stress on septic system and should be explored.

• Many native plants tolerate acidic soil conditions and are likely to thrive here, so their use is recommended.

• Nutrient levels are very low so some soil remediation is likely necessary to facilitate the establishment of new plants.

Water Bird Property Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

• Acidic soil is typical in New England due to its climate and geology, so the Bird property is within the typical range for the region.

• Acidic conditions encourage the concentration of heavy metals such as aluminum, which is toxic at elevated levels.

• Nutrients are key for plant health.

• Periodic liming is needed to keep soils in the 6.0-7.0 pH range desired by most crops and ornamentals.

• Many native plants are acid-tolerant or pH adaptable, so these may be appropriate without substantial soil amendment.

Results of a soil test conducted at UMass Amherst are summarized below. It indicates low levels of vital nutrients and acidic pH. It also indicates extremely high levels of aluminum, which can be toxic to plants.

Soil remediation should be undertaken to promote the healthy establishment of new plants. Nutrient levels highlighted in red indicate levels outside the optimal range.

Nutrient

pH

Phosphorus (P)

Potassium (K)

Calcium (Ca)

Magnesium (Mg)

Aluminum (Al)

Lead (Pb)

Function/ Significance

pH is an important determining factor in nutrient availability, microbe abundance, and plant growth

An important nutrient in plant metabolism and photosynthesis

Potassium-deficient plants are more susceptible to disease

A key nutrient in maintaining properly functioning cell membranes and cell walls

An important nutrient in plant metabolism and photosynthesis

Can be toxic at high levels

Found naturally in soils, but is unnaturally high in many places due to contamination

Optimum Range

6.0-7.0

4-14

100-160

1000-1500

50-120

<75

<22

Bird Level

4.7-4.8

0.3

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Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Soils and Geology

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Vegetation Vegetation on the Bird property can be characterized by three distinct zones of management intensity.

Vegetation In Decline Indications and Concerns

Hypotheses

• Dead and damaged trees.

• Increasingly abundant lichen growth on trees.

• Aggressive species, including invasive exotics, in thickets can harm the native plant community. · Multiflora Rose · Bittersweet · Honeysuckle · Grape · Buckthorn

• Tree senescence, the natural process of deterioration with age, is accelerated by exposure to salt air and wind.

• Stress caused by insect defoliation events in recent years may also have shortened trees’ lifespans.

• Storm damage and increasingly variable freeze/thaw cycles can harm plant tissues.

• Competition with invasive species may limit regeneration of native plant populations.

Evergreen

Black cherry (Prunus serotina), left, and Eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana), right, are the most common tree species on site. Both are native, though Eastern red cedar is longer lived and better adapted to coastal conditions.

Deciduous Management Considerations • The Andersons desire to maintain healthy plant communities and create attractive, functional, landscape-appropriate gardens.

• It is unlikely that there is one single cause of vegetation decline.

• The vegetation conditions at the Bird family home are not unusual in the surrounding region where secondary post-agricultural forests are of similar age and composition.

• Black cherry, the most common deciduous species on site, has a maximum lifespan of approximately 150 years. The trees on site are likely between 60 and 80 years old. Their decline may result from exposure to wind and salt air decreasing their natural lifespan.

• Lichens can indicate decline, but do not cause it. Lichens can also indicate good air quality (US Forest Service).

• Standing dead trees and shrubland are valuable wildlife habitat.

• Disturbance to the overstory and/or the soil in the thickets may invite more growth of opportunistic invasive species. Clearing and revegetation must be phased appropriately and incorporate invasive species management.

• Invasive species eradication is labor intensive and expensive. It may be advisable to direct resources toward supporting native species rather than just eradicating invasives. See Sheet 16 for management recommendations.

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

High Intensity: Gardens and lawn around the house and garage are carefully maintained. Trees in this area are in good health except for a few dead or damaged individuals.

Medium Intensity: A meadow is mowed occasionally to remain open except for occasional Eastern red cedar trees, which are thriving. Deciduous trees behind the garage are less vigorous.

Low Intensity: Dense thickets, historically orchard and pasture, are currently showing indications of poor health. Black cherry trees in poor health compose a sparse canopy layer.

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

“Old Man’s Beard” (Usnea) lichen growing on a dead black cherry branch near the garage.

Tent caterpillars on a branch of a black cherry tree growing along the southern boundary wall.

The black cherry is covered top to bottom with lichen in early spring.

Bittersweet and grape vines climbing up an Eastern red cedar snag in one of the thickets.

Dense thicket vegetation with invasive species

Vegetation

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Wildlife Neighboring Audubon sanctuary provides critical habitat to rare and endangered species.

The property is adjacent to Mass Audubon's Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary, a wildlife preserve whose land includes a tidal estuary and surrounding upland trails.This area provides critical habitat for many wildlife species, including breeding aquatic species, endangered shorebirds, and rare butterflies, according to Audubon. Allens Pond staff monitor and manage for particular species, especially shorebirds and ground-nesting birds.Since the Bird property is geographically contiguous with Audubon's land, the family has the opportunity to create more habitat for species of concern, assisting Audubon's efforts.

NHESP Priority Habitat BioMap2 and NHESP identify the property as an ecologically valuable area.

BioMap2 is a state-wide map drawn by Massachusetts ecologists and land managers to identify land that is of high ecological value. It identifies Critical Natural Landscapes, which are blocks of contiguous land that are large enough to support large-scale ecosystem processes such as wildlife migration. It also identifies Core Habitats, areas that are of especially high habitat value for rare and endangered species and ecosystems.

While Critical Natural Landscapes are important for larger-scale ecosystem processes, Core Habitats are more important for the survival of particular rare speices.

The Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) is the regulatory agency within the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife that is responsible for identifying and protecting endangered species and species of conservation concern. Areas identified as Priority Habitats of Rare Species are known habitats of plants and animals on Massachusetts' state list of rare and endangered species. Any modification to these areas must be submitted for regulatory review to NHESP. The Birds’ property is located within a 3,000-acre Core Habitat area as designated by BioMap2, indicating that it is habitat used by specific species of concern This Core Habitat area is also nested within a 24,000-acre Critical Natural Landscape, and therefore is of higher value since it is also part of a large, contiugous area suitable for wildlife. NHESP also considerers the thicket and meadow areas in the southwestern portion of the property to be Priority Habitat, indicating that there are known plants and animals on the rare and endangered species that live there.

Areas designated as Priority Habitats of Rare Species are regulated by the NHESP, and any modifications to the land within these areas must go through a permitting process.

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Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Implications for Planning and Design NHESP Priority Habitat designation means that any modification to these areas must go through a permitting process administered by the NHESP. Home siting in this area is unlikely to be approved and is not recommended.

There is potential for enhancement of habitat in these areas, such as the removal of invasive species and planting of native species to enhance wildlife habitat, particularly in the thickets.

The Bird property is located in an ecologically valuable area as designated by BioMap2 and NHESP.

Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary Designated Habitat of Ecological Importance BioMap2: Critical Natural Landcape BioMap2: Core Habitat

Buzzards Bay

Allens Pond and the surrounding landscape provide important habitat for birds and other rare and endangered wildlife.

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

NHESP Priority Habitats of Rare Species

Wildife

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Views The existing home has pleasant views to the south and east, mostly of the meadow landscape and scattered Eastern red cedar trees on the property itself. Views to the home from the neighboring homes and driveways are blocked by dense vegetation, including the western thicket areas of the Bird family property, large trees that line the Birds’ driveway, and the dense trees and shrubs planted on the property to the north.

The cleared area in the far northeastern corner of the property is mowed by the neighbor to the north in order to maintain their open view to the southeast.

The view to the east and southeast of the property is of Buzzards Bay. The Andersons would like to build their new home in an area of the property that allows them to take advantage of this view. This would require clearing some of the existing vegetation in the eastern portion of the property, a former orchard that has become overgrown, primarily with invasive shrubs.

Dense Vegetation

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Allens Pond Homes on neighboring properties face away from the Bird property, so views into the property are not a major concern. These homes are also themselves well-screened with vegetation. The view south from the existing Bird family home is constrained by dense vegetation on the property.

There is a clear view to Buzzards Bay from the northeast corner of the property, looking southeast.

This view is not accessible to the current home because of the dense thicket between the home and the view.

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Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

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Neighbors’ Open Views Neighbors’ Blocked Views Existing Home’s Views The existing home looks out onto a meadow dotted with Eastern red cedar trees.

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Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Dense Vegetation

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Allens Pond, above, can be seen from the existing home looking southwest.

Views

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Access and Circulation Currently, the only vehicle access to the property is a driveway off the dead end of Jordan Road. The driveway ends at a garage about 150 feet from the home. Jeanne Bird, the only full-time resident, primarily spends time in the home and the immediately surrounding areas. A private road, Barney’s Joy Road, maintained by the neighboring Russell family, runs along the property’s southern border.

Seasonal pedestrian access to Barney’s Joy Private Beach runs up the driveway and through the property along a prescribed path, indicated in orange. This right-of-way access is written into the deed for the owners of specific neighboring properties, on the condition that they are members of Barney’s Joy Private Beach. The right-of-way must be kept accessible, with no dense vegetation, to preserve this legally-protected route. Additionally, a yearly steeplechase event runs through the property and over a jump constructed on the southern stone wall, which should also be kept accessible to allow this tradition to continue.

It may be possible to build a driveway for a new home off Barney’s Joy Road, although it would require permission from the Russell family. This would allow the Andersons to site their home further from the existing

Jordan Road

driveway without lengthening that driveway substantially or at all. Accessing the property through Barney’s Joy Road would add to the feeling of separation between the two homes, which may or may not be desirable.

Barney's Joy Road may also be more likely to flood in the case of a severe rain event, so choosing this road as the access point to the property may not be desirable (see Climate and Climate Change, Sheet 4). More research is needed to determine which of these roads is safer if there is a need to evacuate.

Bird Property

Private

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Private Drive

Allens Pond

Buzzards Bay

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Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

y ne

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) ive r D Siting the driveway off Barney’s Joy Private Road would require accessing the new home from a different direction. It would also change the route of emergency evacuation.

(P

An open gate marks the beginning of the existing driveway off Jordan Road.

ar

Year-Round Roads and Driveways Year-Round Foot Traffic Seasonal Right-of-Way Foot Traffic 0'

100'

N

Seasonal Steeplechase Jump

To Barney's Joy Beach

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

An equestrian jump, built into the southern stone wall, is used by a yearly steeplechase race through the area.

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

The private section of Barney’s Joy Road leads out to Barney’s Joy Beach.

Access and Circulation

10/25

Zoning and Development Dartmouth is a growing community. The zoning map to the right shows a gradient of rural and urban development in Dartmouth and the surrounding area. Single Residence B, pictured in crosshatch, is the largest zoning district in Dartmouth. Existing urban and suburban development, based on land use and land cover data, are pictured in red.

Dartmouth's business and dense residential districts with municipal water services are concentrated in the eastern side of the town near the city of New Bedford.

A consequence of single residential zoning with septic systems rather than municipal wastewater water treatment is water pollution as described on Sheet 5. The Andersons have an opportunity to develop responsibly by installing on-site water treatment and limiting the inputs to their septic system.

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Single Residence B The seven-acre Bird property is located in Dartmouth’s “Single Residence B” zone. Single Residence B zoning is primarily intended to preserve Dartmouth’s rural character by limiting development density.

The minimum lot size allowed in the Single Residence B zoning bylaws is 80,000 sqare feet (approximately 1.8 acres). Housing is restricted to one single-family dwelling unit per lot. This zoning code prohibits the Andersons from building a second home on the same lot as the existing house. The zoning bylaws also require 200 feet of road frontage along either a public or private way. Located at the end of a dead-end road with boundaries delineated prior to the advent of zoning laws in Dartmouth, the Bird property is grandfathered into zoning compliance with road frontage requirements. The private Barney’s Joy Road was constructed along the southern boundary following David and Jeanne Bird’s purchase of the property. At approximately seven acres with available compliant road frontage, it is highly unlikely that a variance would be granted for construction of a second dwelling on the same lot as the existing house.

It is likely necessary to subdivide the property into two lots to build a new home.

While it may be possible to subdivide seven acres into three lots with financial rewards, the Andersons have expressed disinterest in doing so. In addition to NHESP regulations that apply to the meadow and uncertainty about road frontage compliance, the southwestern portion of the property that could be subdivided as a third parcel includes historical access to Allens Pond and is used for events like family gatherings and the annual steeplechase. It is an important part of the landscape around the existing home because it provides a desirable view and destination while simultaneously protecting privacy. The Andersons have a strong interest in managing the property as a whole while it remains in their ownership, preserving the value of the existing house, and preventing development that may impact the ecological integrity of the land and quality of life in their future home.

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Access to the newly subdivided parcel is a critical component of siting a new house. Road access may be possible from Barney’s Joy Road or from Jordan Road via a shared driveway. Shared driveways of a minimum 16-foot width are allowed by Single Residence B zoning. A variance may be needed for a driveway of less than 16-foot width. Access via Barney's Joy Road may or may not be granted by the neighbors who own the road.

Stone walls on the property are an asset and a ready boundary. These walls have been used traditionally as boundary markers throughout New England and they already mark a large portion of the property boundary.

Drawing boundaries along these existing landmarks honors the site’s land use history and may make the boundaries easier to mark and maintain.

One challenge to using the walls as a property boundary is that the existing garage interrupts one of the only walls available for a boundary for a new lot that meets the minimum lot area while complying with building setbacks. One possible solution to this problem may be to move the garage to a new location closer to the existing house.

The designs presented in this plan set show two possible configurations for subdivision into two parcels (see Sheets 14-15). Many more subdivision configurations are possible. Any of them will require input from a legal advisor and a process of approval by the Town. The legal requirements for neighbors’ pedestrian right-of-way across the meadow will be important to include in that evaluation as they may require further legal process for subdivision approval.

Fall River

New Bedford and Fairhaven

Westport

Dartmouth

Single Residence B Urban and Suburban Development Rural Landscape Wetlands

20'

Open Water

Estate Lot Building Area

Setbacks 20' Setback from Garage

200’ road setback required for Estate Lot zoning 20' 60’ Road Setback

Stone Walls 20’ Perimeter Setback

Feet 0

50

100

200

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Setbacks required by the zoning bylaws include a 60-foot building setback from roads and a 20-foot setback from perimeter boundaries. The existing buildings all comply with setbacks and any new construction will be designed in compliance with setback requirements.

The property is eligible for Estate Lot zoning, which allows a property of at least 5 acres and a minimum of 50 feet road frontage to be subdivided once with a deed restriction preventing future subdivision of either parcel.

Estate Lot zoning requires the parcels to use a shared driveway and there is a 200-foot building setback from any road. The primary disincentive for using Estate Lot subdivision is the tight restriction of the suitable building envelope by the 200-foot setback from Barney’s Joy Road. This area, highlighted in the setbacks map to the left, excludes more desirable house locations from consideration.

There are additional requirements for the setbacks, road frontage, and minimum lot area and a 35-foot building height limit. There is no municipal water or wastewater treatment in the Single Residence B zone. A new house on the Bird property will require drilling a well and installing a septic system.

Zoning and Development

11/25

Summary Analysis Overlaying site analyses clarifies the constraints on and opportunities for managing vegetation and siting a new storm resilient green home.

The suitable building envelope is limited by legal setbacks, NHESP regulations, and privacy concerns. This limitation is summarized in the binary graphic to the bottom right. Fortunately there is an opportunity to site a house close to the property's high point. The suitable house site area also includes the problematic thicket east of the meadow. There is an opportunity to plan vegetation management in ways that complement the creation of a new home and landscape.

d oa nR rda

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Significant Beech Trees

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Garage

Design Directives • Build close to the high point for flood resilience.

• Incorporate green building principles (see Sheet 13) in the building and landscape designs for an ecologically friendly home.

• Reduce water consumption and minimize water pollution by installing a more effective on-site wastewater treatment system and composting toilets.

• Maintain screening from neighbors and Barney’s Joy Road.

• If constructing a shared driveway, apply for a zoning variance to limit width and protect beech trees.

• Open new views toward Buzzards Bay. • Preserve livability and attractiveness of the landscape around the existing house. This includes the establishment of privacy screening between the existing house and a new house.

• Keep the pedestrian beach access right-of-way clear of obstructions.

• Remove invasive species and support native species.

• Comply with NHESP regulations for protecting Priority Habitat for Rare Species.

• Address problematic vegetation in the thickets using ecologically sound practices.

House Site Suitability Summary The suitable location for a new house is limited to the white area pictured below. Suitability was determined based on results of the analyses illustrated in the summary analysis graphic to the left.

High Point Drainage Views Blocked

NO

YES

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Northern Neighbor’s View Desirable Views Out Thickets Building Setbacks Pedestrian Right-of-Way NHESP Priority Habitat Property Boundary Feet 0

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

50

100

200

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Summary Analysis

12/25

Green Building Principles Ecosystem Health

Comfort and Wellbeing

• Limit house and driveway footprint.

• Preserve and enhance priority habitats.

• Plant native species and support biodiversity.

• Protect water quality.

Energy

Landscape and Buildings

• Reduce energy consumption by installing proper insulation, air tightness, ventilation, interior thermal mass, and energy efficient appliances.

• Use passive technologies like orientation toward the sun and provide seasonal shading with vegetation.

• Capture solar energy with photovoltaic arrays.

• Monitor energy use and participate in renewable energy research and development.

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

• Connect welcoming indoor and outdoor spaces.

• Maximize light and views.

• Make plenty of room for guests.

• Maintain personal privacy and respect neighbors’ privacy.

• Create functional and attractive work and play spaces.

• Avoid use of toxic materials to protect the health of occupants and support manufacturers who do not compromise the health of their workers.

Water

• Minimize waste and use on-site materials wherever possible.

• Use non-toxic and renewable materials.

• Paved areas should be permeable and durable.

• Plant gardens for food production, pollinator habitat, and pleasure.

• Use trees for passive cooling, privacy, and wind breaks.

Safety and Resilience

• Reduce impervious surfaces and maximize infiltration to minimize runoff.

• Capture rainwater and grey water for non-potable uses.

• Use composting toilets to reduce potable water consumption and potential nutrient loading of groundwater and Buzzards Bay.

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

• Have a plan for storm preparation and evacuation.

• Use durable materials in floodable areas.

• Plan on flooding of the first floor. Limit property damage from flooding by concentrating living space and utilities above the first floor. Build a slab-on-grade foundation without a basement.

• Temporary outdoor structures and furniture should be easy to take apart and bring inside to prevent damage.

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Green Building Principles

13/25

Design Alternative 1: Shared Driveway Orchard

In this design, a new home is built close to the property's high point. The eastern thicket is cleared and planted with native vegetation to create a people-friendly landscape for the new home.The open view to the southeast A looks toward Buzzards Bay. A shared driveway connects the two properties. A new stand-alone garage is built northwest of the new home and the existing garage is moved. The subdivision line is drawn along the existing stone walls. Lot 1 (to the west) is bigger than Lot 2 (to the east.)

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

2

4

Lot 2

1

Open areas are likely suitable for septic leach field.

4

The existing garage is relocated and rebuilt with an accessory apartment on the second floor to accomodate guests. The garage's geometry is aligned with stone walls and the existing home.

The subdivision line is drawn along existing stone walls. Lot 1 is larger, and includes the existing house and relocated garage. It also includes the meadow and the cart path access to Allen's Pond. If Lot 1 is sold, Bird and her family will lose the ability to decide how this path is maintained.

Patio

A patio connected to the new home provides an outdoor gathering space, and a vegetable garden is sited nearby. Stairs lead from the patio up to a large second-floor deck shaded by a trellis.

A shared driveway serves both lots. Shared driveways are required to have a minimum width of 16' under Single Residence B zoning; therefore, obtaining a zoning variance is recommended in order to build a more narrow driveway to protect the historical beech trees that grow near the existing house and the neighror's property line. This shared driveway ends at a new Lot 2 garage with a hammerhead turnaround that can also accomodate guest parking.

6

A' 2

3

A new home is sited close to the property's high point to minimize flooding concerns. Its orientation responds to the geometry of the stone walls, and is oriented within 20° of due south to maximize solar energy capture.

3

Dense vegetation maintains privacy from views into the property from the north, west, south, and northeast. The native trees and shrubs also provide wildlife habitat, shade, and visual interest.

5

6 1

5

Lot 1 Property high point

Subdivision line

Section A-A'

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Not to scale

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Design Alternative 1: Shared Driveway

14/25

Design Alternative 2: Two Driveways In this design, a new driveway built from Barney's Joy Road leads up to a new home with an attached garage. The eastern thicket is cleared and planted with native vegetation to create a people-friendly landscape for the new home. The open view to the southeast looks toward Buzzards Bay. 1

2

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

3

Patio

4

A vegetable garden just west of the new home can be easily accessed from the porch, and receives year-round solar exposure from the south. Past the garden in the northeast corner of the meadow, a small orchard adds more edible crops. A shed north of the garden is an easy storage location for tools and other garden supplies. Cuts in the stone walls create access gates to these new spaces.

5

Dense vegetation maintains privacy from views into the property from the north, west, south, and northeast. These native shrubs and trees also provide shade, wildlife habitat, and visual interest. It should be noted that planting trees and shrubs in the meadow will require NHESP regulatory review.

6

The subdivision line is drawn 20' east and south of the existing stone walls to respect the setback requirements from the existing garage. Lot 2 is the larger parcel and includes ownership of the cart path to Allens Pond, as well as most of the meadow.

5

A

A new home, sited close to the property's high point to maximize flood resilience, is oriented just east of due south to respond to the geometry of the stone wall. This orientation also maximizes both solar capture and views to Buzzards Bay.

2

A'

3

1

4 6

Open areas are likely suitable for septic leach field.

The new garage's location on the first floor of the home provides easy and convenient access to the living spaces. A roof deck on top connects to a wraparound porch, creating sunny gathering spaces with a view of Buzzards Bay. A patio tucked into the trees north of the home is a shady, private place to entertain.

Lot 2

Property high point

Orchard

Lot 1

A new driveway is built off Barney's Joy Road to access the new home. Though this requires permission from the neighbors who own the road, building a driveway here allows the Andersons to leave the existing driveway unchanged and creates a stronger sense of privacy and separation between the two properties.

Subdivision line

A'

A Section A-A'

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Not to scale

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Design Alternative 2: Two Driveways

15/25

Protect existing tree roots from compaction during construction

Vegetation Management and Phasing Maintaining Existing Vegetation The gardens and lawns are currently healthy and well maintained. They are a manageable size and there is no pressing need to change them. Care should be taken to protect highly valuable trees along the driveway. One place where mowing could be reduced is the septic leach field area where people are already discouraged from going. Lawn in that area may be replaced with a wildflower meadow that supports pollinators. The leach field must remain clear of woody perennials, but tall grasses and flowers are an acceptable alternative to a manicured lawn.

Dead, damaged, and problematic trees near the house are marked in red on the map to the right. These include a tall spruce tree near the house with many dead branches, a Norway maple that is shading the garden, a dead shrub, and an area of the northwestern thicket where shubs and trees currently overlap the northern edge of the leach field. These trees and shrubs should be removed because woody vegetation can damage septic systems. New trees may be planted along the edge of the cleared area to replace some of the declining vegetation in the thicket. Otherwise the northwestern thicket can be left as is because it serves a screening function well and causes no harm to the surrounding landscape.

While the southwestern thickets leading all the way down to Allens Pond contain many invasive species, efforts to eradicate them from this area are not likely to be effective because the thicket is surrounded by more of the same invasive species. The cart path may be cleared in the future, though that action is not urgent because the other side of the wall is currently clear allowing access to Allens Pond. Another reason not to take immediate action is the NHESP regulation of priority habitat in the thicket and in the meadow. Any action to alter vegetation in this area must be approved through its regulatory process and should support wildlife.

The meadow should remain open with paths maintained for right-of-way access and to maintain its current aesthetic and function. The areas that are not mowed for paths can be mowed infrequently. Three to six cuttings per year should suffice to keep the area open. Reducing mowing lowers costs, fuel use, and soil compaction on the site. Solar-charged electric mowers may also help to reduce the impacts and cost of mowing.

Northwestern Thicket

Septic Leach Field

Gardens and Lawn Meadow Thickets Evergreen Deciduous

Southwestern Thicket

Removal Recommended

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Phasing New Planting Clearing and Soil Stabilization

Early Tree Planting

Landscape Installation

Ongoing Maintenance

• Establish a water source and plan for irrigation.

• Clear and revegetate thicket. · Remove vegetation. · Grub out roots and/or mulch and stabilize soil. · Add soil amendments if necessary. · Hydroseed or broadcast a native meadow seed mix, mostly grasses.

• Mow three to six times per year to prevent reestablishment of invasive species and support meadow establishment.

• Remove any invasive species regrowth in cleared areas manually, or with controlled burns.

• Herbicide spot treatment on stems should be used as a last resort. Avoid all foliar herbicide treatments.

• Following establishment of grasses, begin planting trees for privacy and shade.

• Install smaller trees in larger quantities at this stage to establish them prior to occupancy of the new home. More small trees (bare root or pots from a nursery) have a better chance of success than fewer, high-value large trees during this phase.

• Start planting in areas that will be minimally impacted by construction. Continue planting in areas out of the way of future construction.

• Protect trees from herbivory using fences, deer wrap, and wire mesh or plastic rodent guards.

• Plan to limit construction area and vehicle movement to reduce soil compaction and other damage to vegetation.

• Protect established vegetation during construction.

• Identify areas that may be planted prior to the project's completion such as ground cover over the septic system.

• Plant gardens and trees within the construction zone following completion. · This is a good time to plant higher value balledand-burlapped specimen trees such as orchard trees and shade trees near the house.

• Establish low-mow or no-mow grasses in new lawn areas to reduce mowing expense and energy use.

• Maintenance of the newly cleared area can be an extension of existing vegetation maintenance.

• Mulch bare soil and irrigate all plantings during establishment.

• Fertilize plants when necessary, especially garden beds where plant material is regularly removed.

• Prune dead, damaged, or diseased branches from trees and shrubs.

• Use deer and rodent protection for high-value trees and garden areas. Prevent girdling by replacing protective devices wrapped around a tree trunks or branch as they grow.

• Continue regular manual removal of invasive species.

• Mow meadows as much as necessary to prevent growth of undesirable species and maintain accessible paths.

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Vegetation Management and Phasing

16/25

Invasive Species Management What are invasive species?

Invasive species present in the thicket

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

An invasive species is a non-native plant or animal that spreads aggressively and outcompetes native species. They are considered harmful because they are vigorous enough to displace native species.

This can have a cascading effect on biodiversity, as once one species is displaced or outcompeted, other plants and animals that depend on that species also begin to decline. Some invasives do provide food and habitat for wildlife, so vegetation should be chosen to replace habitat that was removed.

Removal of invasive species is difficult because they tend to be vigorous and to spread aggressively. There are numerous strategies used to control them and each has its benefits and challenges. It is important to choose a strategy appropriate for a given site's physical conditions and species composition.

Three approaches that may be appropriate at the Bird property are mechanical removal, chemical treatment, and controlled burning. Each treatment may be used alone or in combination with others.

Regardless of the strategy chosen for removal, immediate reseeding with a native seed mix and a thorough, long-term maintenance strategy will be crucial to prevent the reestablishment of invasives. Any disturbance of the landscape is likely to stimulate more invasive plant growth if that landscape is not carefully maintained.

The former orchard on the Bird property has become overgrown with aggressive exotics including Oriental bittersweet, bush honeysuckles, multiflora rose, and buckthorn species.

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Oriental bittersweet Celastrus orbiculatus

Bush Honeysuckles Common buckthorn Lonicera spp.

Rhamnus cathartica (L. maackii, L. morrowii, L. tatarica)

Glossy buckthorn Rhamnus frangula

Decidous climbing vine with glossy, finely-toothed leaves.

Upright, deciduous shrubs 6'-15' in height, with fragrant, tubeshaped flowers.

Tall woody shrub or small tree up to 20' in height, with oval leaves that have toothed margins and a pointed tip.

Tall woody shrub or small tree up to 20' in height, with graybrown speckled bark and slightly wavy, oval-shaped leaves.

Open woodlands, forest edges, open fields, and prairies.

Wetland areas such as swamps, bogs, wet marshes, as well as some upland forest edges and old fields.

Species

Multiflora rose Rosa multiflora

Description

Thorny perennial shrub with arched stems and clusters of white to light pink flowers.

Habitat

Can tolerate a wide variety of soil and light conditions. Often found in old fields, forest edges, and along roadsides.

Young forests, woodlands and forest edges, and thickets.

Prefers sunny areas, and often grows in disturbed habitats such as formerlygrazed fields and woodlands.

Potential ecological impacts

Prolific growth creates dense thickets that crowd out native species. Seeds may remain in the soil for up to twenty years.

Vigorously climbs woody vegetation, which may be smothered, shaded out, or break from excessive weight.

Quickly forms dense thickets that shades out native species, depleting soil nutrients and reducing light availablility.

Forms even-aged, dense clusters that shade out native shrub and herb species.

Spreads quickly into wetland areas, forming dense thickets that crowd out or displace native species.

Ideal timing for control

Before flowering occurs in May-June.

Before flowering occurs in May-June.

Before seed dispersal in August-September.

Before flowering occurs in May-June.

Before flowering occurs in May-June.

Spreading mechanism

Abundant seeds are dispersed by birds.

Can also reproduce from tips of arched stems that reach the ground.

Seeds and fruits may Plentiful, showy fruits be dispersed by birds are dispersed by birds or other animals. May and other animals. also root sprout.

Long-lasting fruits are dispersed by birds and other animals.

Long-lasting fruits are dispersed by birds and other animals.

Adapted from Managing the Barber Reservation (Davis and Tennis, 2014)

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Invasive Species Management

17/25

Clearing and Revegetation

Controlled burns may be used to maintain the cleared landcape.

Recommended Treatment Procedure 1. Clearing: Above-ground removal. This is done with a chainsaw or above-ground heavy machinery.

2. Grubbing: Below-ground removal. This is done with heavy equipment such as an excavator or bulldozer that can remove stubborn roots and stumps. Some chemical treatment of cut stumps may be used if persistent resprouting occurs.

3. Soil stabilization: Mulching with woodchips created from cleared woody vegetation, or covering soil with biodegradable erosion-crontrol mats.

4. Seeding and revegatation: Can be done with broadcast seeding or hydroseeding.

5. Ongoing maintenance may include mowing, controlled burns, and manual removal around newly-planted trees and shrubs. It may also include limited cut-stem herbicide application to especially persistent species if it is deemed absolutely necessary.

Mechanical Removal

Revegetation Immediate revegetation is crucial to stabilize the soil and begin establishment of native species. Hydroseeding and broadcast seeding are two methods appropriate for large-scale revegetation.

• Hydroseeding is a process in which a mixture of seeds, soil stabilizers, soil amendments, and water are sprayed on an area.

• Broadcast seeding involves spreading seed either manually or with a rotary spreader attached to a truck. Broadcast seeding is simple and inexpensive.

• Formulating a native seed mix to use in reseeding is crucial in establishing a native ecosystem. · Apply a diverse suite of species to have even germination across microclimates, since areas unsuitable for one species may be favorable for another. · The mix should include species that grow at similar rates.

Otherwise, fast-growing species will prevent the establishment of more slow-growing species.

Ongoing Maintenance

There are two stages of mechanical removal: surficial removal and grubbing, or the uprooting and removal or stumps and roots.

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Herbicide may be applied selectively to cut stems of woody vegetation using a paintbrush or sponge.

• Initial surface clearing can be done with a brush hog or chainsaw.

• Grubbing out the roots prevents reestablishment by invasive exotics.

• Grubbing may require heavier equipment such as a bulldozer or excavator.

• Grubbing is disruptive to soil and creates open land susceptible to erosion, so preventative measures such as covering the area with erosion-control fabric or silt fencing should be used.

• Reseed immediately with a native seed mix to prevent erosion and help prevent the reestablishment of invasive exotics.

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Mowing

Regular mowing is one of the easiest ways to maintain a cleared landscape. Mowing 3-6 times a year is considered sufficient to maintain multiflora rose, one of the invasive species present on the Bird property.

Using a solar mower will reduce the energy use of maintaining the landscape.

Controlled Burns Controlled burns are used to maintain the landscape once cleared.

• Periodic controlled burns can be used to maintain the cleared landscape after mechanical removal.

• Some seeds are adapted to germinate after fire, so fire may assist in reestablishing meadow vegetation.

• Some invasive species may also be stimulated by fire, such as

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Hydroseeding can be used to rapidly revegetate a cleared landscape, which helps to quickly establish vegetation and stabilize the soil to prevent erosion.

Oriental bittersweet, a vine present on the Bird property. Immediate reseeding and long-term management is crucial to prevent invasive exotics from recolonizing the area.

• Burns shouls be timed for a given species’ ideal removal time when possible. See Sheet 17 for a list of species' appropriate treatment times.

• Burn permits must be obtained through the local fire authorities. This includes the creation fo a detailed safety plan.

Chemical Management Chemical treatment involves applying herbicides to treat species that persistently reestablish.

• Herbicide should be used sparingly and only as a last resort.

• Foliar application refers to the spray application of herbicides directly to the plant’s leafy matter, flowers, or fruits. The active ingredient is mixed with water, typically at a concentration no more than 5%. Foliar application should be avoided. If initial clearing is done mechanically, it should not be needed.

• Cut-stem application requires cutting woody plants mechanically, and applying an herbicide to the remaining stump or stem. The chemical concentration of the mixture is higher, up to 35%, but it can be applied more selectively and in smaller quantities with a sponge or paintbrush.

• Herbicides carry substantial risk of harm to ecological and human health, and should be used with caution if the ecological benefit outweighs the risk of their use. The active ingredients in herbicides are powerful and can be harmful to ecosystems if not tightly controlled.

• Site-specific context and hydrology should be carefully considered before beginning an herbicide regime. Excess chemicals can run off into local water bodies and damage aquatic ecosystems, or leak into groundwater and contaminate local water supplies.

• Anyone using herbicide must hold a license to do so administered by the state of Massachusetts, and must wear personal protective equipment.

Clearing and Revegetation

18/25

Planting Basic Plant Ecology

Healthy Plant Requirements

Plants thrive when their basic needs are met. The structure and composition of a natural forest ecosystem is largely determined by resource partitioning as plants compete and adapt to tolerate limited resources and take advantage of opportunities.

In New England, in places with an agricultural history like Slocums Neck, forests are regrowing in open fields in successional phases. Fast-growing trees that require full sun grow densely. These plants are short-lived and many become suppressed under the shade of their neighbors. As the thicket thins out into a more open grove, there is an opportunity for species tolerant of shade to start growing in the understory. A layer of herbaceous vegetation grows at ground level too. Over time, a multi-story forest of mixed ages and diverse species composition takes form.

Above Ground

Balled-and-Burlapped Tree Planting Detail

• Sunlight · Different species have varying tolerances for light conditions.

Some are adapted to grow in shade, others only thrive in full sun.

• Protection from herbivory. · Many plants already have adapted their own characteristics to deter herbivores, therefore they do not need additional protection. · Highly valuable plants should be given extra protection, especially during winter. For example, orchard trees require deer fencing and wire mesh or plastic rodent guards.

Below Ground

Forest succession from bare soil to mature forest canopy.

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Ecological Landscape Design Forests grow and change cyclically with or without human intervention.

Phasing recommendations presented here are designed to mimic some of the ecological processes that drive forest or meadow succession with methods like selective cutting, planting trees of multiple size classes analogous to a mature multi-aged forest, and limiting soil amendments.

This approach saves energy and money by reducing the inputs necessary to meet the needs of plants in the Bird property landscape.

An ecological landscape design uses native species that are already adapted to the harsh site conditions of acidic soils and exposure to wind and salt air. Native plants are readily available from nurseries in Dartmouth and nearby towns. There is also a wealth of knowledge among horticulturists and conservation organizations in the region such as Mass Audubon and Quansett Nursery.

Non-native species also have a place in the landscape. Vegetable gardens and a small orchard, an important part of the Andersons' home life, may include non-native annuals and perennials. Ornamental gardens are a beautiful part of a home and can attract pollinators. Exotic ornamental species need not be excluded unless they are at risk of becoming aggressive. It is inadvisable to plant a non-native species that grows and reproduces aggressively.

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

• Air · Roots need air to function properly. Plants cannot thrive in heavily compacted or saturated soil. · Soil compaction should be minimized during construction of the Bird landscape. Soils are most vulnerable to compaction when they are wet. · Driving vehicles over soil is the most damaging cause of compaction. Compaction can be reduced by limiting driving to one path, using mats or other physical structures to drive on, and taking advantage of seasonally dry or frozen soil conditions. · Soil compaction is difficult and expensive to remediate.

• Water · Plants need water to live. Water is especially important during transplanting and establishment, so it is important for irrigation to be ready prior to planting. · Avoid overwatering to conserve water resources and prevent damage to roots.

• Nutrients · Plant growth is often limited by nutrient availability. · Soil amendments can be used to increase fertility and alter soil pH. They should be used sparingly because they are expensive, can potentially harm water quality, and may encourage invasive species growth. · Compost is an inexpensive soil amendment that increases soil organic matter and gives freshly planted vegetation a boost. · Native plants that are already adapted to soil conditions should not need major inputs of new topsoil or amendments.

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Do not cover root flare with soil or mulch.

Remove all burlap and wire cages from root balls.

1-4" of mulch with a 6" berm around the perimeter of the hole.

Topsoil and compost backfill Undisturbed soil

Planting

19/25

Conceptual Planting Plans The key plans below show a simplified planting plan for each of the two design alternatives presented in this plan set. These planting plans incorporate the vegetation recommendations outlined on Sheet 16. The colors in the legend correspond to similar categories in the plant palettes on Sheets 21-23.

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Alternative 1: Shared Driveway

Alternative 2: Two Driveways

Evergreens

Shrubs

Deciduous

Grasses

Fruit Trees

Mowed Lawn Perennial Gardens

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Conceptual Planting Plans

20/25

Plant Palette: Trees The plants identified are chosen to create an attractive landscape that is adapted to local climate and soil conditions. Many were chosen from Polly Hill Arboretum on Martha's Vineyard, which categorizes plants into "island native," "island appropriate, " and "non-native." Since Dartmouth is so close to the island and has such a similar climate, these designations identify plants that are appropriate to Dartmouth as well. Plants that are welladapted to the local landscape require less maintenance and are more likely to thrive in the exposed coastal setting of the peninsula.

Persimmon Diospyros virginiana

Peach Prunus persica

Apple Malus domestica

Deciduous Trees

Pawpaw Asimina triloba

For key plans see Conceptual Planting Plans on Sheet 20.

Common Name

Genus

Species

Form

Height

Red Maple Serviceberry, Shadbush

Native Status

Soil

Sun

Salt

Wind

Drought

Acer

rubrum

deciduous tree

>40'

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

Amelanchier

spp

deciduous tree

15'-24'

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

Sweetbay Magnolia

Magnolia

virginiana

deciduous tree

15'-24'

MV appropriate

spray tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

acid tolerant

full, partial

spray tolerant

Flowering Dogwood

Benthamidia/Cornus

florida

deciduous tree

15'24'

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

American Smoketree

American Hornbeam

Carpinus

caroliniana

deciduous tree

25'-40'

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial, shade

Pignut Hickory

Carya

glabra

deciduous tree

>40'

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

wind tolerant

Mockernut Hickory

Carya

tomentosa

deciduous tree

>40'

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

Scrub Oak

Quercus

ilicifolia

deciduous tree

15'-24'

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

Gray Birch

Betula

populifolia

deciduous tree

20'-40'

MV native

Sassafras

Sassafras

albidum

deciduous tree

>40'

MV native

acid tolerant

full partial, shade

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

White Oak

Quercus

alba

deciduous tree

>40'

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

soil tolerant

wind tolerant

White Ash

Fraxinus

americana

deciduous tree

>40'

MV appropriate

Eastern Redbud

Cercis

canadensis

deciduous tree

15'-24'

MV appropriate

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

Shagbark Hickory

Carya

ovata

deciduous tree

>40'

MV appropriate

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

Northern Red Oak

Quercus

rubra

deciduous tree

>40'

MV appropriate

acid tolerant

full

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

American Smoketree

Cotinus

obovatus

deciduous tree

15'-30'

MV appropriate

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

wind tolerant

Cotinus obovatus drought tolerant

partial

full

drought tolerant drought tolerant drought tolerant

Gray birch Betula populifolia

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Evergreen Trees Common Name

Genus

Species

Form

Height

Native Status

Soil

Sun

Atlantic White Cedar

Chamaecyparis

thyoides

evergreen tree

>40'

MV native

acid tolerant

full

Pitch Pine

Pinus

rigida

evergreen tree

>40'

MV native

acid tolerant

full

Eastern Red Cedar

Juniperus

virginiana

evergreen tree

>40'

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full

Eastern White Pine

Pinus

strobus

evergreen tree

>40'

MV appropriate

acid tolerant

full, partial

Eastern Arborvitae

Thuja

occidentalis

evergreen tree

25'-40'

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

Salt

Wind

Drought

wind tolerant

drought tolerant drought tolerant

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

wind tolerant

Atlantic White Cedar Chamaecyparis thyoides

Fruit Trees Common Name

Genus

Species

Form

Height

Native Status

Soil

Sun

Fruiting Time

Apple

Malus

domestica

deciduous tree

15'-20'

Non-native

prefer neutral soils

full

September-October

Plum

Prunus

domestica

deciduous tree

15'-20'

Non-native

acid tolerant

full

August-September

Peach

Prunus

persica

deciduous tree

15'-20'

Non-native

acid tolerant

full

August-September

Pear

Pyrus

communis

deciduous tree

15'-20'

Non-native

prefer neutral soils

full

August-September

Persimmon

Disopyros

virginiana

decidous tree

15'-24'

Non-native

pH adaptable

full, partial

September-October

American Hornbeam

Pawpaw

Asimina

triloba

decidous tree

15'-24'

Non-native

pH adaptable

full, partial

August-October

Carpinus caroliniana

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Plant Palette: Trees

21/25

Plant Palette: Shrubs and Grasses The plants identified are chosen to create an attractive landscape that is adapted to local climate and soil conditions. Many were chosen from Polly Hill Arboretum on Martha's Vineyard, which categorizes plants into "island native," "island appropriate, " and "non-native." Since Dartmouth is so close to the island and has such a similar climate, these designations identify plants that are appropriate to Dartmouth as well. Plants that are welladapted to the local landscape require less maintenance and are more likely to thrive in the exposed coastal setting of the peninsula.

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Shrubs

For key plans see Conceptual Planting Plans on Sheet 20.

Common Name

Genus

Species

Form

Height

Native Status

Soil

Sun

Salt

Wind

Speckled Alder

Alnus

incana

shrub

>8'

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

spray tolerant

wind tolerant

Drought

Swamp Sweetbells Eubotrys racemosa

Common Alder

Alnus

serrulata

shrub

>8'

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

spray tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

Bearberry

Arctostaphylos

uva-ursi

shrub

<5'

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

Summersweet

Clethra

alnifolia

shrub

5-8'

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

Arrowwood Viburnum

Viburnum

dentatum

shrub

5'-9'

MV native

Elderberry

Sambucus

canadensis

shrub

4'-12'

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

Red Chokeberry

Aronia

arbutifolia

shrub

5'-8'

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

Purple Chokeberry

Aronia

floribunda

shrub

5'-8'

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

full, partial

Sweetfern

Comptonia

peregrina

shrub

<5'

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

soil tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

Common Witchhazel

Hamamelis

virginiana

shrub

>8'

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial, shade

spray tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

Highbush Blueberry

Vaccinium

corymbosum

shrub

>8'

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

spray tolerant

wind tolerant

Lowbush Blueberry

Vaccinium

angustifolium

shrub

<5'

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

spray tolerant

wind tolerant

Inkberry

Ilex

glabra

shrub

5'-8'

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

Yellow Star Grass drought tolerant

Hypoxis hirsuta

drought tolerant

Common Juniper

Juniperus

communis

shrub

>8'

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

wind tolerant

Small Bayberry

Morella

caroliniensis

shrub

5'-8'

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

wind tolerant

Bigleaf Hydrangea

Hydrangea

macrophylla

shrub

3'-6'

MV appropriate

acid tolerant, pH variable

fartial, shade

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

Virginia Rose

Rosa

virginiana

shrub

2'-6'

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

Swamp Sweetbells

Eubotrys

racemosa

shrub

5'-8'

MV native

acid tolerant

partial, shade

Mountain Laurel

Kalmia

latifolia

shrub

5'-8'

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

Beach Plum

Prunus

martima

shrub

5'-8'

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

Swamp Azalea

Rhododendron

viscosum

shrub

5'-8'

MV native

acid tolerant

partial, shade

Prairie Willow

Salix

humilis

shrub

5'-8'

MV native

pH adaptable

full, partial

Elderberry

Sambucus

canadensis

shrub

5'-8'

MV native

New Jersey Tea

Ceanothus

americanus

shrub

5'-8'

MV appropriate

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

drought tolerant

Shrubby Cinquefoil

Dasiphora

floribunda

shrub

<5'

MV appropriate

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

drought tolerant

drought tolerant drought tolerant

wind tolerant drought tolerant Spray tolerant, soil tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

wind tolerant spray tolerant, soil tolerant

drought tolerant

Mountain Laurel Kalmia latifolia

full, partial

Meadow Grasses Common Name

Genus

Species

Form

Height

Native Status

Soil

Sun

Little Bluestem

Schizachyrium

scoparium

grass

18"-3'

MV Native

pH adaptable

full, partial, shade

American Beachgrass

Ammophilia

brevigulata

grass

1'-3'

MV native

Pink Tickseed

Coreopsis

rosea

grass

1'-2'

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full

Red Fescue

Festuca

rubra

grass

1'-3'

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial, shade

Virginia Wildrye

Elymus

virginicus

grass

1'-3'

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

Yellow Star Grass

Hypoxis

hirsuta

grass

3"-8"

MV native

pH adaptable

full, partial

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

full

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Salt

Wind

Drought drought tolerant

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

Purple Chokeberry Aronia floribunda

wind tolerant drought tolerant

Plant Palette: Grasses and Shrubs

22/25

Plant Palette: Perennial Gardens

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

The plants identified are chosen to create an attractive landscape that is adapted to local climate and soil conditions. Many were chosen from Polly Hill Arboretum on Martha's Vineyard, which categorizes plants into "island native," "island appropriate, " and "non-native." Since Dartmouth is so close to the island and has such a similar climate, these designations identify plants that are appropriate to Dartmouth as well. Plants that are well-adapted to the local landscape require less maintenance and are more likely to thrive in the exposed coastal setting of the peninsula.

Soil

Common Name

Genus

Species

Form

Native Status

Pearly Everlasting

Anaphilis

margaritacea

perennial

MV native

drought tolerant

Wavy-leaved Milkweed

Asclepias

amplexicaulis

perennial

MV native

drought tolerant

Purple Milkweed

Asclepias

purpurascens

perennial

MV native

Big Bluestem

Andropogon

gerardii

perennial

MV appropriate

Daylily

Hemerocallis

spp.

perennial

Red Columbine

Aquilegia

canadensis

perennial

MA native

pH adaptable

full, partial

Wild Sarsaparilla

Araila

nudicaulis

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial, shade

Wild Indigo

Baptisia

tinctoria

perennial

MV native

White Turtlehead

Chelone

glabra

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

spray tolerant

Purple Wood Aster

Eurybia

spectabilis

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

Narrow-leaved Goldenrod

Euthamia

caroliniana

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

drought tolerant

Joe-pye Weed

Eutrochium

dubium

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

drought tolerant

Swamp Rose Mallow

Hibiscus

moscheutos

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

Slender Blueflag

Iris

prismatica

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

Winterberry Holly

Ilex

verticillata

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

Beach Pea

Lathyrus

japonicus var. maritimus

perennial

MV native

full

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

New England Blazing Star

Liatris

novae angliae

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant

full

spray tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

Carolina Sea Lavender

Limonium

carolinianum

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

spray tolerant, soil tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

Yarrow

Achillea

millefolium

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

soil tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

Several-veined Sweet Flag

Acorus

americanus

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full, partial

Wood Anemone

Ageratina

altissima

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

partial, shade

Jack-in-the-Pulpit

Arisaema

triphyllum

perennial

MV native

Butterfly Milkweed

Asclepias

tuberosa

perennial

MV native

Northern Maidenhair Fern

Adiantum

pedatum

perennial

MV appropriate

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

partial, shade

Crested Wood Fern

Drypoteris

cristata

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial, shade

Interrupted Fern

Osmunda

claytoniana

perennial

MV appropriate

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

partial, shade

drought tolerant

Woodland Sunflower

Helianthus

divaricatus

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

partial, shade

drought tolerant

Birdfoot Violet

Viola

pedata

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant

full, partial

drought tolerant

Goat's Rue

Tephrosia

virginiana

perennial

MV native

acid tolerant

full

Purple Coneflower

Echinacea

purpurea

perennial

MV appropriate

Large Coneflower

Rudbeckia

maxima

perennial

MV appropriate

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

full

drought tolerant

Sundial Lupine

Lupinus

perennis

perennial

MV appropriate

acid tolerant

full

drought tolerant

acid tolerant, pH adaptable

Sun

For key plans see Conceptual Planting Plans on Sheet 20.

Salt

Wind

full, partial

Drought

drought tolerant

Swamp Rose Mallow Hibiscus moscheutos spray tolerant spray tlerant

drought tolerant wind tolerant

drought tolerant

wind tolerant

drought tolerant

wind tolerant Slender Blueflag Iris prismatica

drought tolerant

drought tolerant

Red Columbine Aquilegia canadensis

wind tolerant

drought tolerant drought tolerant

Sundial Lupine Lupinus perennis

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Plant Palette: Perennial Gardens

23/25

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Preliminary Cost Estimates The following costs are rough estimates. A conceptual budget is presented for each design alternative for the purpose of comparison. Further site analysis, planning, and design are neccessary to assess the full cost of landscape management and new house construction on the Bird Property.

Maintenance costs are not accounted for in this estimate. Landscape maintenance is essential for sustaining the health of existing and newly planted vegetation. It also helps maintain or increase property value. Budgeting between $10,000 and $25,000 annually for landscape maintenance is recommended. Maintenance costs will be highest during the establishment phase for newly planted vegetation.

Well drilling, septic construction, and electric lines are excluded from these cost estimates because their quantities are currently unknown.

Design Alternative 1: Shared Driveway

Design Alternative 2: Two Driveways

Item Pre-subdivision New garage with apartment Demolition of existing garage Tree removal Site Preparation Perc tests Driveway construction Clearing Soil amendments Revegetation Construction Well drilling Septic construction Electric line Backup generator Grading Erosion and sediment control House construction Garage construction Composting toilets Solar installation Landscape Porch Patio Landscape planting Tree planting Subtotal before tax Sales tax Subtotal Mobilization Design/Administration Contingency

Unit Quantity

Low Unit Cost

High Unit Cost Low Subtotal

High Subtotal

ls ls each

1 1 6

$65,000.00 $11,000.00 $250.00

$85,000.00 $16,000.00 $500.00

$65,000.00 $11,000.00 $1,500.00

$85,000.00 $16,000.00 $3,000.00

ls sf acre ls acre

1 3,700 1.5 excluded 1.5

$300.00 $3.00 $8,000.00

$500.00 $5.00 $12,000.00

$300.00 $11,100.00 $12,000.00

$500.00 $18,500.00 $18,000.00

$3,000.00

$5,000.00

$4,500.00

$7,500.00

ls excluded ls excluded lf 200 ls 1 sf 10,000 lf excluded sf 3,000 ls 1 each 2 ls 1 sf sf sf each

1,200 800 20,000 50

$12.00 $6,500.00 $0.15 $3.00 $175.00 $33,000.00 $5,000.00 $20,000.00

$25.00 $10,000.00 $0.18 $5.00 $250.00 $42,000.00 $7,000.00 $40,000.00

$2,400.00 $6,500.00 $1,500.00

$5,000.00 $10,000.00 $1,800.00

$525,000.00 $33,000.00 $10,000.00 $20,000.00

$750,000.00 $42,000.00 $14,000.00 $40,000.00

$30.00 $18.00 $4.00 $250.00

$50.00 $30.00 $8.00 $800.00

$36,000.00 $14,400.00 $80,000.00 $12,500.00

$60,000.00 $24,000.00 $160,000.00 $40,000.00

6%

6%

2% 15% 10%

8% 25% 15%

$846,700.00 $50,802.00 $897,502.00 $17,950.04 $134,625.30 $89,750.20

$1,295,300.00 $77,718.00 $1,373,018.00 $109,841.44 $343,254.50 $205,952.70

$1,139,827.54

$2,032,066.64

Total Cost

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

Item Pre-subdivision Tree removal Site Preparation Perc tests Driveway construction Clearing Soil amendments Revegetation Construction Well drilling Septic construction Electric line Backup generator Grading Erosion and sediment control House/garage construction Composting toilets Solar installation Landscape Porch Patio Landscape planting Tree planting

Unit Quantity

Low Unit Cost High Unit Cost Low Subtotal

High Subtotal

each

4

$250.00

$500.00

$1,000.00

$2,000.00

ls sf acre ls acre

1 2,000 1.5 excluded 1.5

$300.00 $3.00 $8,000.00

$500.00 $5.00 $12,000.00

$300.00 $6,000.00 $12,000.00

$500.00 $10,000.00 $18,000.00

$3,000.00

$5,000.00

$4,500.00

$7,500.00

ls ls lf ls sf lf sf each ls

excluded excluded excluded 1 10,000 excluded 3,900 2 1

$12.00 $6,500.00 $0.15 $3.00 $175.00 $5,000.00 $20,000.00

$25.00 $10,000.00 $0.18 $5.00 $250.00 $7,000.00 $40,000.00

$6,500.00 $1,500.00

$10,000.00 $1,800.00

$682,500.00 $10,000.00 $20,000.00

$975,000.00 $14,000.00 $40,000.00

1,200 800 20,000 50

$30.00 $18.00 $4.00 $250.00

$50.00 $30.00 $8.00 $800.00

$36,000.00 $14,400.00 $80,000.00 $12,500.00

$60,000.00 $24,000.00 $160,000.00 $40,000.00

6%

6%

2% 15% 10%

8% 25% 15%

$887,200.00 $53,232.00 $940,432.00 $18,808.64 $141,064.80 $94,043.20

$1,362,800.00 $81,768.00 $1,444,568.00 $115,565.44 $361,142.00 $216,685.20

$1,194,348.64

$2,137,960.64

sf sf sf each

Subtotal before tax Sales tax Subtotal Mobilization Design/Administration Contingency Total Cost Final costs to be determined after final construction plans are completed.

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

Preliminary Cost Estimates

24/25

References and Credits

Not for construction. Part of a student project and not based on a legal survey.

Works Cited • Buzzards Bay Coalition Staff. “On the Bay: Nitrogen Pollution.” Buzzards Bay Coalition 2016. Online. Accessed 05/04/2016.

• Davis, Emily and Brandon Tennis. Managing the Barber Reservation.

Conway, MA: The Conway School of Landscape Design, 2014.

• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Definitions of FEMA Flood Zone Designations. Available online. Accessed 06/20/2016.

• Geiser, Linda and Rebecca Reynolds. Using Lichens as Indicators of Air Quality on Federal Lands: Workshop Report. US Forest Service. 2001.

Online. Accessed 05/15/2016.

• Mass Audubon Staff. “Allen’s Pond Wildlife Sanctuary.” Mass Audubon.

2016. Online. Accessed 04/30/2016.

• Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program Staff.

BioMap2: Conserving the Biodiversity of Massachusetts in a Changing World. Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP) and The Nature Conservancy. 2010. Online. Accessed 04/29/2016.

• Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program Staff. “Regulatory Maps: Priority and Estimated Habitats.” Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program (NHESP). 2016.

Online. Accessed 04/29/2016.

• Mattrick, Christopher. Managing Invasive Plants: Methods of Control.

Conservation Notes of the New England Wild Flower Society Vol. 10, No. 3: 20-23. Online. Accessed 06/23/2016.

• Natural Resources Conservation Service. Conservation Practice Job Sheet NH-314. Brush Management – Invasive Plant Control – Multiflora rose – Rosa multiflora. Online. Accessed 06/22/2016.

• Natural Resources Conservation Service. Conservation Practice Job Sheet NH-314. Brush Management – Invasive Plant Control – Oriental bittersweet – Celastrus orbiculatus. Online. Accessed 06/22/2016.

• Natural Resources Conservation Service. Conservation Practice Job Sheet NH-595. Brush Management – Invasive Plant Control – Buckthorns – Frangula alnus and Rhamnus cathartica. Online. Accessed 06/22/2016.

• Polly Hill Arboretum and the Martha’s Vineyard Commission. Martha’s Vineyard Plant Selection Guide. Available online. Accessed 06/22/2016.

• Roadside Revegetation: An Integrated Approach to Establishing Native Plants. Vancover,WA: Technology Deployment Program, Western Federal Lands Highway Division, 2008. 301-311. Online. Accessed 06/15/2016.

• Soil Survey Staff, Natural Resources Conservation Service, United States Department of Agriculture. Soil Survey Geographic (SSURGO) Database for Massachusetts. Available online. Accessed 04/25/2016.

• Soil Survey Staff, Natural Resources Conservation Service, United

Allison Gramolini and Faren Worthington Spring 2016

States Department of Agriculture. Official Soil Series Description: Woodbridge Series. Available online. Accessed 05/19/2016.

• Tu, M., Hurd, C. & J.M. Randall. 2001. Weed Control Methods Handbook, The Nature Conservancy. Version: April 2001. Online.

Accessed 06/23/2016.

• US Forest Service. Forest Health Staff. Invasive Plant Fact Sheets: Exotic Bush Honeysuckles. Online. Accessed 06/21/2016.

• Hypoxis hirsuta: Randall Wingett • Iris prismatica: Frank Mueschke • Kalmia latifolia: Alan S. Heilman • Lupinus perennis: Maryland Native Plant Society • Malus domestica: Royal Horticultural Society • Prunus persica: North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension

Map Credits Image Credits Sheet 8: Wildlife • Osprey: Bob Howdeshell • Shorebird: Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary Staff

Sheet 17: Invasive Species Management • Lonicera mackii: National Park Service • Rhamnus frangula: Tree Seed Online • Rhamnus cathartica: Pieter B. Pelser • Rosa multiflora: USDA • Celastrus orbiculatus: US Forest Service

Sheet 18: Clearing and Revegetation • Controlled Burn: US Forest Service • Hydroseeding: Martin Implement Inc. • Cut-stem Herbicide Application: University of Arizona Extension

The following datalayers were used from MassGIS: • Bathymetry – Offshore 1:250,000 • Bedrock Lithology • BioMap2 • Digital Elevation Model (DEM) 1:5,000 • FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer • Hurricane Surge Inundation Zones • Land Use (2005) • Level 3 Assessors’ Parcels • NHESP Priority Habitats of Rare Species • NRCS SSURGO-Certified Soils • Protected and Recreational Open Space • Shaded Relief 1:5,000 • Surficial Geology 1:24,000

Additional Datalayers: • LIDAR Elevation Data from the US Army Corps of Engineers, 2012

Sheets 21-23: Plant Palettes • Aronia prunifolia: The Arboretum: State Botanical Garden of Kentucky • Aquilegia Canadensis: William Britten Photography • Betula populifolia: Iowa State Forestry Extension • Carpinus caroliniana: The Honey Tree Nursery • Chamaecyparis thyoides: Arlington Echo Outdoor Education Center • Cotinus obovatus: Justin Davis • Diospyros virginiana: Vitamin Supplement Ingredients • Eubotrys racemosa: Rhode Island Coastal Plant Guide • Hibiscus moscheutos: Geeky Girl Engineer

Ecological Resilience for a Coastal Home A Landscape Master Plan for Bird Anderson 273 Jordan Road, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

References and Credits

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