04 ATTACHMENT 05 - Laserfiche WebLink

~+ ..y V ~. .~ 2. Assess the soil and test drain Description Know the soil: its organic matter, fertility, texture, and structure. Identify problems such as compaction layers, poor drainage, or contamination with heavy metals, salts or toxic compounds.This knowledge will help you determine the soil quality, the types of plants it can best support and any need for supplements. Check for compaction zones with probes, augers or shovels. Test drainage in several spots. Sample the soil from different zones in the landscape -and remember that different plants have different nutrient requirements. Send soil samples for an analysis of the soil pH, organic matter, nutrients and potential contaminants. ^ Locate the landscape site on a soil survey map (available from the local library or the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service at www.baysavers.ore). ^ Review site grading specifications. ^ Visit the site and take handfuls of the soil to determine the texture by feel. ^ Identify soil characteristics on a site map. ^ Do an initial soil analysis, and then annually during the transition to a Bay-Friendly landscape, and also: • When planning a renovation When experiencing ongoing problems ^ Watch the weeds. Clover, in turf, for example suggests a need for nitrogen T[PS FOR SUCCESS Soil Texfure by Feel Take a I or 2 tablespoon sample of soil into your hand. Slowly add water and knead the sample until moist. Try to form the sample into a ball. Squeeze it to see if you can make a cast (an impression of your fingers). Gently stretch the soil out between your thumb and foref nger and try and make a ribbon. Note the feel of the soil as you are working it and use the table below to determine its texture: Characteristics of Soil Sample Soil Texture Soil will not stay in a ball. Loose and single-grained with Sand a gritty feeling when moistened. A cast will form but it can't be handled without breaking Loamy sand and will not form into a ribbon. Soil feels slightly gritty. A short ribbon can be formed but breaks when about Loam I /2 inch long A ribbon can be formed. The ribbon is moderately Clay loam strong until it breaks at about 3/4 inch length. Soil feels slightly sticky. The soil can easily be formed into a ribbon I inch or Clay longer. Soil feels very sticky. ADAPTED FROM: S.J. THEIN, A FLOW DIAGRAM FOR TEACHING TEXTURE BY FEEL ANALYSIS, JOURNAL OF AGRON. EDU. Understanding the soil is also critical to landscaping in an environmentally friendly manner. Plants are more likely to be placed appropriately and fertilizers used only as needed. 3. Survey and protect flora & fauna Existing flora and fauna provide insight into the ecosystem health and the landscape possibilities. Native vegetation, wildlife habitat & sensitive areas such as wetlands may need protection. Invasive species will need active control. ^ Identify plant species and communities, especially California natives, invasive or endangered species and wetlands. ^ Learn what wildlife inhabit or move through the site or have historically inhabited the site. Consider what they used for food and shelter. Plan for restoration. ^ Ask your clients to identify plants that are of value to them. ^ Become familiar with local tree ordinances and wetland or endangered species regulations. ^ Develop a plan for preserving existing trees and shrubs or engage the services of a certifed arborist to help you create the plan. Conserving or restoring local flora, fauna and habitat provides your clients with a sense of place. Native plants can make the job easier for the landscape professional. a~ Q> ~" zW 5~ >3 ~o ~LL W~i a ~~~ c~Z° o~'m 14