We have an area in our existing project's boundry that has few vegetated area, but the whole area was not touched by the owner or by anyone before.
My question is that, if we leave this whole hill area can we claim it all for credit compliance, or claim the existing green area only?
Michael Yi
5 thumbs up
July 29, 2021 - 10:33 pm
Hey Omar,
I believe at face value, as long the vegetated area is within the project site, you should be able to claim it for credit compliance with Option 1. However, a large part of the intent with this credit considers restoration. Consider the below suggestions. I believe that the first, third, and fifth bullet points can help with your question.
STEP 2. FACILITATE RESTORATION
Work with site professionals to identify areas to be resoted with native or adapted vegetation, determing restoration strategies, and define the process and method for restoration work.
- Restoration and enhancement of natural site elements can include existing ponds, riparian buffers, vegetation, and other natural features.
- Consider restoring areas adjacent to greenfield areas, bordering natural areas, and continguous parcels to increase the environmental benefit.
- Areas that naturally do not contain vegetation can count toward restored area. For example, natural rock outcrops, ponds, and desert would all qualify under this credit. There is no need to vegetate areas that are not naturally vegetated. Project teams may need to submit documentation showing that the project site contains naturally unvegetated land or natural water bodies.
- Lawns (turf grasses) qualify as adapted vegetation only if they are able to survive without mowing, fertilization, pesticides, and irrigation.
- Maintenance of the vegetated areas is a best practice and may include: weeding, trimming, removal of invasive species, and other activities to ensure the health and long-term viability of the plants.
LEED also suggests looking at the Society for Ecologoical Restoration International, as they provide additional guidance on best management practices. They also suggest to determine your ecoregion to inform decisions about habitat protection and restoration, which is mentioned in the credit (i.e., provide habitat and promote biodiversity).
Hope this helps a bit.