LS 7-3 Sources of Site Information

What is the primary source for obtaining topographic maps for large, non-residential sites in the United States?

• Local city administrative offices

• United States Geological Survey (USGS)

• Private landscape companies

• Local historic societies

Which of the following soil factors can be easily gathered by a landscape company on a residential site?

• Soil pH and texture

• Depth of bedrock

• Location of the water table

• Permeability of the soil

Explain why a topographic survey map prepared by a licensed land surveyor might be more useful than a USGS map for smaller sites.

• It is more detailed and specific to the site.

• It is cheaper to obtain.

• It covers a larger area.

• It is easier to read.

What is the role of a land surveyor in determining property lines, and why might this be necessary for a landscape design plan?

• To provide legal documentation of property ownership.

• To ensure accurate design plans by determining legal property boundaries.

• To offer tax advantages for property owners.

• To assess soil quality for planting.

How might the historical use of land impact its current use in landscape design?

• It determines the soil pH.

• It may impose legal restrictions or offer incentives.

• It affects the average annual rainfall.

• It dictates the architectural style of new buildings.

Discuss the importance of consulting local weather records for a landscape project if the landscaper is unfamiliar with the area.

• To determine the soil type.

• To understand the average annual rainfall and temperature ranges.

• To locate underground utilities.

• To identify property lines.

Which agency provides soil survey maps that can offer detailed information about soil characteristics for large-scale projects?

• United States Geological Survey (USGS)

• U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service

• Local city administrative offices

• Private landscape companies

Why might a designer need to know the steepness of a single slope on a site?

• To determine the soil pH.

• To develop plans for a retaining wall or steps.

• To locate property lines.

• To assess historical land use.

Evaluate the potential impact of nearby sounds and smells on the character of a site being inventoried for landscape design.

• They have no impact on the design.

• They can influence the aesthetic and functional aspects of the design.

• They only affect the soil quality.

• They determine the property boundaries.

What is a common misconception about property lines that might require verification by a land surveyor?

• Property lines are always marked by fences.

• Property lines are often assumed to be where hedgerows or walls are located.

• Property lines are determined by soil type.

• Property lines are irrelevant to landscape design.