We are restoring a pond by removing invasive plant species and replanting with native plant species. May we count the surface area of the pond into the acreage calculations to meet the requirements for NC-2009 SSc5.1: Site Development—Protect or Restore Habitat? We are confident that it meets open space requirements, but cannot find guidance on this issue under native and adapted landscaping/habitat restoration. Because native species (frogs, insects, spiders, birds, fish) inhabit this area we think the we should be able to count it. Thanks!

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April Brown

Sustainable Building Consultant

Green Bridge Consulting

LEEDuser Expert

28 thumbs up

Mon, 06/01/2015 - 20:32

According to LEED Interpretation ruling #5755: The intent of SSc5.1 is to conserve existing natural areas and restore damaged areas to provide habitat and promote biodiversity. It is theoretically possible for a pond to achieve these functions, but there is not enough detail in your question to verify whether this is the case. In your credit submittal, provide details about the nature and construction of the pond, the habitats created, the plant and animal species that are supported, and the hydrologic processes.

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Protect or Restore Habitat - 2.5 acre Pond

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