For a project where turf grass area is replaced by native low-irrigation demanding planting would baseline landscape type include turf whereas design type include the new water efficient species? Obviously, if this is allowed, a greater reduction in water use is achieved.
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William Weaver
LEED Fellow, WELL APJLL
181 thumbs up
April 27, 2015 - 2:04 pm
If a comparable development in the area would normally use turf, and you are utilizing a vegetation type that is more water efficient, it is perfectly acceptable to use turf in your baseline, and the more efficient plant material in your design case. The only requirements, per se, are that the total irrigated areas and the microclimate factor be consistent between the two cases.
Keep in mind, the baseline case is defined as the typical development in the area. Your project can deviate completely from what is the norm, so it's not uncommon to have different vegetation between the two cases.
Charalampos Giannikopoulos
Senior Sustainability ConsultantDCarbon
84 thumbs up
April 28, 2015 - 3:20 am
Than you William!