Landscape Design Standards

Landscape Design Standards

10.1 INTRODUCTION Fort Carson's Landscaping Master Plan identifies the location and type of landscaping to be used throughout the installation. Landscaping provides a simple and often times cost effective enhancement to the general appearance of Fort Carson and, if done in accordance with Fort Carson Landscaping Standards, will be sustainable into the future. The visual image conveyed by a military installation is defined not just by architectural character and site organization, but also by an attractive, organized landscape design. The presence of plant material on the installation greatly enhances the visual character and environmental quality of the installation.

LANDSCAPING IS AN EASY WAY TO IMPROVE APPEARANCE

Plantings add an element of human scale to open spaces and can be used functionally to screen undesirable views, buffer winds, reinforce the hierarchy of the circulation system, or provide a visual transition between dissimilar land uses.

10.2 LANDSCAPE OBJECTIVES The overall goal of landscaping on Fort Carson is to improve the physical and psychological well being of soldiers, family members, civilians, contractors, and those that visit Fort Carson while preserving resources. The following are Fort Carson landscaping objectives: Reduce the amount of water used for landscaping throughout the post and look for opportunities to use non-potable water whenever possible in line with Fort Carson's 25-year sustainability goal of reducing the total water purchased from outside sources by 75%. Use LID principles and creative runoff/downspout positioning to provide supplemental watering to landscaped areas.

LANDSCAPING SCREEN

Improve the aesthetics of Fort Carson in a sustainable way by focusing on Xeriscaping. Provide consistent landscaping standards for all to follow. Provide inspiring landscaping that will create pride and ownership of their assigned areas by units and activities on Fort Carson.

Ft Carson IDG Create a unified approach to landscaping throughout the Installation. Protect/Conserve mature, desirable tree/shrub species to the maximum extent possible. Incorporate native grasses and other native plants into the landscape design. Sustainable Energy and Water Use Goal: Sustain all facility and mobility systems from renewable sources by 2027 and reduce the total water purchased from outside sources by 75% from the 2001 baseline. The desired end states are; secure sustainable energy sources; alleviation of dependence on fossil fuels and adverse air emissions; funding for life cycle costs; reduction of reliance on petroleum imports and vulnerability; reduction of wastewater discharges; efficient water consumption; increase in the quality of re-use and; development of sustainable water source solutions.

10.3 FORT CARSON LANDSCAPE POLICY Due to the arid climate of Fort Carson, it is the Command’s policy to implement Xeriscaping in as many areas of the post as feasible. In accordance with the Landscaping Master Plan, irrigated turf areas will be kept to a minimum. If irrigation is required, moisture sensors will be incorporated into the design. For all new landscaping or changes to existing landscaping, it is the intent of Command that the landscape design conform with the look of the rest of the post. All landscaping entails the need for a DA Form 4283 (Facility Engineering Work Request) to be submitted to the DPW for approval and in most cases there is also the need for a Dig Permit, FC Form 86. Some major landscaping on post is in the form of self-help. Units will provide the manpower needed for the construction. Personnel from the Troop Construction Branch of DPW will assist in the operation of heavy equipment and give guidance for execution. Sidewalks are always beneficial additions to buildings that have LANDSCAPING issues with mud being tracked in. In a barren landscape that needs upgrading, the sidewalks should be the first thing installed. The weight of the cement truck tends to destroy all other landscape initiatives. The laying of barrier fabric between the earth and the decorative gravel layer should always be completed before installing any irrigation and seeding in the same area. The heavy equipment used to spread the decorative gravel tends to destroy the sprinkler heads and piping. Sidewalks should be laid first, followed by gravel placement, and then irrigation and seeding as a finishing touch when deemed suitable and as prescribed by the Landscaping Master Plan. Boulders can be a nice touch. They add aesthetics when placed in a boring, empty area or in combination with shrubbery. Boulders can provide a physical security benefit. They should be placed carefully so as not to impede emergency vehicles.

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10.4 PRINCIPLES OF LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT Landscape design is based on the following principles.

10.4.1 UNITY The selection and placement of plant material can be used to blend, screen, and soften incompatible architecture or other unattractive visual impacts. Plant material, as a unifying element, can be placed in front of a building or view to frame and enhance the visual impact.

10.4.2 BALANCE Plant material can be selected and placed to provide visual equilibrium or balance through the use of either a symmetrical or asymmetrical planting scheme. Symmetrical plantings are generally more formal while asymmetrical plantings are informal.

10.4.3 CONTRAST Plant material can be selected and placed to provide differences in size and shape, which adds interest to the environment. Plants can be located to provide a backdrop for other plants, such as a hedge behind a bed of annuals or perennials.

10.4.4 RHYTHM Repetition of a single plant or a mass of plants provides visual interest and formality to the landscape. Rhythm produces emphasis and unity and is especially effective in articulating main circulation routes.

10.4.5 COLOR AND TEXTURE Plants can be selected and placed to provide visual interest according to their color and texture. Colors are classified as either warm (red, orange, yellow) or cool (violet, blue, green). Texture is classified as either coarse or fine.

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PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN

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10.4.6 SIMPLICITY Landscape plans should be broad and simple in form to limit excessive maintenance. Plant material should be grouped in beds with simple edges that are easy to mow. Small turf areas should be avoided because of the difficulty of mowing. The use of annuals should be minimal because of the high maintenance involved.

10.4.7 ULTIMATE EFFECT The landscape plan should be prepared with consideration for the mature size of all plants. The spacing of all material should utilize nursery industrial standards for mature material to account for spread as well as height. The ultimate height of the material should also be considered in relation to windows and other visual concerns.

10.4.8 SPATIAL ARTICULATION Plants can be selected and placed to create enclosed spaces or to separate spaces from one another. They can also be used to direct people by visually defining and reinforcing patterns of movement. The degree of enclosure, separation, or movement is dependent upon the density, form, and type of plants used.

10.5 SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT The use of plant material on the installation promotes the sustainability of the development. Trees, shrubs, groundcover, and vines provide aesthetic appeal as well as preservation of fauna and flora, energy conservation, climate modification, erosion control, air purification, and noise abatement. Proper selection and placement of trees and plants can also contribute to shading from sun or protection from wind. SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT

Landscaping plays an important role in various Low Impact Development (LID) strategies. Vegetated areas can be used to slow runoff, filter out pollutants and facilitate infiltration which encourages recharge. Grassy swales can be used to convey and temporarily store runoff. Vegetated areas can be used adjacent to bodies of water to provide erosion control and habitat.

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10.6 FORT CARSON LANDSCAPING MASTER PLAN

10.6.1 OBJECTIVES Develop a comprehensive and cost effective landscaping plan for the cantonment area of Fort Carson and a realistic plan of action for accomplishment. Maintain stewardship of the community’s resources, enhance the well being of soldiers and family members, and unify the aesthetic appearance across the post while minimizing the visual effects of barren areas. Delineate landscaping maintenance responsibilities and correct the shortfalls of the existing landscaping plan. Establish a master plan that will be kept in the Installation Design Guide. • Reduce the amount of water used for landscaping by 75% and incorporate the use of nonpotable water ionto irrigation design.

10.6.2 TYPES OF LANDSCAPE AREAS Oasis: Irrigated turf grass maintained for high traffic use. Installed in physical training areas and around barracks. Natural: Non-irrigated native grasses, shrubs, and trees. Installed along roadways. Xeriscape: Non-irrigated (or drip irrigated for selected plants), ornamental areas at the end of barracks buildings, administrative areas, or courtyards. Fort Carson IDG

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Ft Carson IDG Gravel: Non-irrigated, 1.5 inch red rock or stamped concrete. Installed in and around parking lot areas.

10.6.3 TIMELINE (BASED ON AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS) 2007 – Complete Phase I that includes the banana belt area. 2009 – Complete Phase II (43rd Area Support Group area). 2011 – Complete Phase III (Headquarters area.) 2013 – Complete artificial turf installation.

10.7 LANDSCAPE DESIGN GUIDELINES Fort Carson's Landscaping Policy. The Directorate of Environmental Compliance and Management (DECAM) oversees all landscaping and plantings on the post.

10.7.1 AGRONOMY Introduction. Responsibility for this program is in accordance with AR 200-3 (replaces AR 420-74): Natural Resources - Land, Forest, and Wildlife Management. The DECAM Agronomy Program provides the following services for Fort Carson and the Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site (PCMS). Assists the Fort Carson Fire Department with Wildland Fire Suppression on Fort Carson and PCMS. Provides technical assistance with landscape projects materials and maintenance. Provides technical assistance on all turf and ornamental species on Fort Carson and PCMS. The DECAM Agronomy design guidelines are intended for application to landscape improvements at sites throughout Fort Carson. Their primary purpose is to assist in the design of responsible, aesthetically pleasing landscapes, and in the achievement of the overall landscape goals for all of Fort Carson. The entire Agronomy Design Guidelines Document resides in Appendix B of the IDG. Proposed plantings must be reviewed to ensure that site conditions (soil, topography, adjacent uses, and architecture) and climatic criteria (sun, shade, and moisture requirements) are considered in the desired plant design and selection (i.e., form, texture, color, size). The uses and users of the site must also be considered. Landscape planting plans should be approved by qualified personnel to provide quality assurance and promote design consistency within each visual zone.

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10.7.2 FOUNDATION PLANTING Foundation planting provides a green background for additional plantings. It adds scale and character to the building; helps to integrate the building with its surroundings; screens HVAC and other utilities; and helps create a sense of arrival. When developing foundation planting plans, consideration should be given to antiterrorism measures. Focal and seasonal plantings should be located at building entries for pedestrian interest. Use the architecture of the building to evaluate the planting design and selection of plants. Plant materials should not block windows and views from interior spaces. Trees shall be setback from the building walls to provide space for mature growth and to prevent root systems from damaging the foundation.

FOUNDATION PLANTING

A symmetrical foundation planting design should be used for a symmetrical building. Due to the possibility of insect problems (bee stings, etc.), do not plant flowering plants near entrances. Foundation plantings shall be discouraged if the soils report for the project does not recommend such plantings.

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10.7.3 SCREENING 10.7.3.1 WINDSCREENS Use a combination of evergreen and deciduous trees to provide windbreak protection from prevailing winds. Windbreak plantings should be irregular in form, rather than straight and evenly spaced, in order to provide more effective wind control and to visually blend with the natural character of the installation.

WIND SCREENING

10.7.3.2 SCREENING OF DUMPSTERS Landscape planting should be used to supplement wood fence and masonry wall dumpster enclosures. All plantings shall meet force protection and antiterrorism requirements.

10.7.3.3 SCREENING OF TRANSFORMERS OR OTHER UTILITY EQUIPMENT

BUFFER PLANTING

5Landscape plantings such as decorative shrubs shall be used to screen all transformers and other utility equipment from view in major pedestrian locations such as entrances to buildings and pedestrian circulation routes. Care must be taken to make sure that proper access to the equipment is maintained while screening the equipment from view.

10.7.4 BUFFER PLANTING A mixture of evergreen and deciduous trees and shrubs shall be used to visually separate land uses and to help separate visual SCREENING zones. Buffer plantings shall not be installed in rigid formal lines but shall be installed in strategic clumps to properly screen unsightly areas all times of the year. Plants of different types of density, color, height, and texture when clumped together provide attractive buffers. Buffer planting should also be used at all Installation entrance gates to screen unattractive areas of the installation from view upon entry to the installation. Landscape buffers shall also be used to screen loading docks, ground mounted mechanical equipment, and other such areas from view.

10.7.5 OPEN SPACE PLANTING Enhance open space areas with plantings. Use a mixture of evergreen, deciduous, and flowering trees. Plant the same kind of trees in massive groupings to impact the vast open areas. Maximize native grasses, trees and other plants in open space not developed for parks or other recreation.

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10.7.6 STREET TREES Street tree plantings should be used to reinforce vehicular hierarchy; orient and direct traffic; upgrade views; and to visually de-emphasize on-street parking. Also, in the design of a street tree planting, separate plant species may be used to identify distinctive details or areas of the installation, for example, a particular land use relationship, historical district, community area, or other similar entity. Use formal street trees in single rows to visually reinforce primary and secondary roads. Use regularly spaced and uniformly shaped deciduous trees to provide a regimented appearance.

STREET TREES

Use informal groupings of street trees along tertiary routes. Utilize medium size deciduous trees to screen on-street parking along roadways. Set trees 1 to 2 meters (3 to 6 feet) from the back of curbs. Spacing should be uniform, except where curb cuts interrupt regular spacing. As a general rule, street trees should be deciduous species, resistant to salt and root pressure, and should have a 10' to 12' high clearance between the street pavement and branch height to allow adequate clearance for pedestrian and vehicular traffic to pass unimpeded by lower branches. The street tree layout should be coordinated with the layout of proposed street lighting. Appropriate plant heights should be used within sight triangles to ensure safe views from intersections. Weeping trees should not be used at Fort Carson. Street trees can be watered by using creative drainage techniques that employ using the run off water from the street to water these trees. Avoid planting trees in areas with less than three feet between paved areas. In areas with 3 to 4 feet between paved areas, plant trees that grow to a mature height of less than 30 feet. In areas with 5 to 6 feet between paved areas, select trees that mature about 50 feet tall. Reserve trees that mature higher than 50 feet for areas with at least eight feet between paved areas. This allows adequate space for the tree roots

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL PLANTING

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10.7.7 PARKING LOT PLANTING Parking lots are often the least attractive elements on a military installation. The use of landscape plant material and earth berms can greatly improve the appearance of these areas as well as help define circulation and reduce heat gain during summer months. Use shade tree plantings at parking lots to reduce glare and moderate ambient air temperatures on the lot. Optimum spacing of parking lot shade trees is 10 to 12 meters (35 to 40 feet) on center. Choose trees and shrubs that require minimum maintenance and PARKING LOT LANDSCAPING will not litter the parking area with leaves, fruit, or nuts. Consider sight distances near entrances and exits when selecting and placing plant material. Select trees, shrubs, and groundcovers that can withstand harsher conditions, such as sun, glare, heat, high winds, and reduced water supply. Use a mix of evergreen and deciduous plant material to screen parking areas from adjacent uses.

10.7.8 ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL PLANTING LANDSCAPING TO DEFINE EDGE OF PARKING LOT AND PROVIDE A BUFFER When properly placed, plants can provide environmental benefits, as well as address visual concerns. Use deciduous trees and shrubs at courtyards, buildings, and along streets to provide shade, moderate temperatures, and reduce glare during the summer months while allowing solar exposure in the winter. Locate deciduous plantings along south facing walls or on the southeast and southwest corners of buildings or courtyards to mitigate solar radiation and glare due to heat build-up and lower sun angles in the mid-morning and late afternoon hours.

Use mixed massings of deciduous shrubs and evergreen trees/shrubs to provide sound control along primary and secondary roads.

10.7.9 IMAGE PLANTING The image of the installation is formed by the visual impressions that exist within the installation. The primary locations of highly visible images are the main gate, along primary circulation systems, and at areas of high concentrations of people. Features such as signs, statues, static displays, and other primary visual images can be improved by the use of trees, shrubs, and groundcover.

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10.7.10 ENTRANCES TO THE INSTALLATION The entrances and streetscapes into the installation are areas to place landscaping that will develop a strong visual image and provide visual interest during all four seasons. The entrance to the installation creates the first visual impression for the visitor. The landscape materials and planting areas should be proportional in scale to the hierarchy of the street on which they are located. Landscaping must be integrated with the force protection requirements of Section 12. Low shrubs, groundcover, ENTRANCE PLANTING annual/perennial plants, and canopy trees provide seasonal interest as well as maintain views required to ensure force protection measures. Large evergreen trees are discouraged in these locations because they may obstruct sightlines and impact the need for force protection. Adequate lines of sight must be maintained for guard personnel to observe vehicular and pedestrian traffic approaching the gate.

10.7.11 ZEROSCAPING Zeroscaping is a low maintenance method that can be used where appropriate to conserve water. Zeroscaping at Fort Carson usually consists of rocks used as a groundcover with a few sparse plants integrated in strategic locations. The Fort Carson Landscaping Master Plan uses Zeroscaping in certain areas on the Installation. Xeriscape however, is a more preferred approach to landscaping in the Cantonment Area.

10.7.12 XERISCAPING Xeriscape comes from a combination of two words: "xeri" is derived from the Greek word "xeros" meaning dry; and "scape" meaning view or scene. Together they mean "a dry scene." The term Xeriscape was coined in Denver, Colorado in 1978. Xeriscaping is landscaping with slow-growing, drought tolerant plants, allowing a conservation of water and nutrients. Xeric landscapes are conscious attempts to develop planting areas that are compatible with the local natural environment. Plants that are native to the area or can exist in this location without additional water are excellent choices for Xeriscape gardens. USAF Landscape Design Guide, Xeriscape.

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"ZERO" SCAPING

XERISCAPING

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10.8 PLANT MATERIAL SELECTION Trees, shrubs, groundcover, and turf are the major elements of a planting composition. Basic plant selection criteria should consider creating a unified composition; utilizing native materials for low maintenance and watering requirements, and sustainability; avoiding incompatible colors, textures, and forms; and matching the appropriate plant to the land use, situation, and environmental condition. The ability of plant material to provide lasting benefit is dependent PLANT SELECTION IS IMPORTANT upon the plant’s hardiness and its appropriateness to the site use. Major factors affecting plant hardiness are soil type and organic content, temperature, moisture, and light. These climatic conditions can be modified to an extent by specific site conditions, such as wind protection, solar orientation, and planting design to create microclimates. Selecting appropriate plants for a given condition is only one aspect of planting design. Compositional arrangement to provide texture variety and to accent site and building features is another. The selection and composition of a planting design requires an understanding of each plant’s characteristics, form, and environmental needs as well as how each plant can relate to and complement other plants in the design. Plants are used in four basic design categories. Canopy. Barrier. Screen (or Buffer). Groundcover. The use of native plant species (grasses, trees, and other plants) should be used where ever possible. These native species require less maintenance and less water than other species. Places such as ditches and open spaces are perfect locations for such native plantings. Landscaping material delivered to Fort Carson for planting will be inspected and approved of prior to installation.

10.9 PLANT PALETTE AND PLANT CATEGORIES The plant palette and categories are designed to help the designer choose the best plant for each particular set of design requirements. The plants that appear on the palette and in the categories were selected for their hardiness and their ability to survive in this geographical area. To use them effectively, the design requirements must be well defined for the specific site.

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10.9.1 PLANT PALETTE A select group of plant materials has been divided into the following six categories. Deciduous trees. Coniferous trees. Deciduous shrubs. Coniferous shrubs.

CONSIDER SHAPE AND MATURE GROWTH BEFORE SELECTING A PLANT

Broadleaf evergreen shrubs. Groundcover and vines. On the palette, the plants appear in alphabetical order by their botanical name, followed by their common name, design characteristics, cultural information, recommended use, and miscellaneous notes. The plant palette is presented in a matrix format in Appendix O.

10.9.2 PLANT CATEGORIES Plants from the plant palette with similar characteristics have been cataloged in the Plant Categories. These characteristics could be cultural (e.g., upright, narrow form), environmental (e.g., shade tolerant), ornamental (e.g., red fall color), or functional (e.g., screening plant). Characteristics include: cultural conditions (mature height and spread, form and growth rate, disease and pest resistance), environmental conditions (sun/shade, pH range, soil moisture required, and wind/sun), and ornamental characteristics (flower color, autumn color, fruit color, and/or summer leaf color). Each category describes a list of plants that share a similar quality. For example, materials that are shade tolerant would be placed in the Shade Tolerant group under the "Environmental Conditions" heading. To further explain the categories, under the "Environmental Conditions" heading, in the Shade Tolerant group, all shade tolerant deciduous trees would be listed under “Deciduous Trees;" all shade tolerant coniferous trees would be listed under "Coniferous Trees;" and so on.

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10.10 PLANT MATERIAL INSTALLATION A key step in assuring successful planting is to select plants of the highest quality. Plant material should be of the size, genus, species, and variety to comply with the recommendations and requirements of the "American Standard for Nursery Stock" ANSI Z60.1. As part of the design process and prior to plant installation, review the installation's Master Plan’s, Basic Information Maps or As Built Drawings for utility locations and verify with the Directorate of Public Works or equivalent. The planting and establishment of trees, shrubs, groundcovers, and vines is detailed in TM 5-803-13, Chapter 3. Information is also in the DECAM Agronomy Design Guidelines in Appendix B.

SPACE PLANTS ACCORDING TO THIER MATURE SIZE

General guidelines for plant installation: At planting time, thin plants by removing one-third of the vegetative material. Spray all evergreens with an anti-desiccant within 24 hours of planting. Water all plants thoroughly during the first 24-hour period after planting. Site all plants and stakes plumb. Space plants according to their mature size. Install plant materials in groups for greater impact. Fort Carson prefers that plants are placed in clusters rather than single isolated plantings. Within the clusters the plants selected need to provide diversity in height, texture, color, and species. Ensure proper installation of lawn areas. Installation techniques for turf are detailed in TM 5-803-13, Chapter 4. The details include site evaluation, site preparation, selection of turf, and maintenance requirements. Soil is to be amended adequately for the plant material being utilized. All plant materials will be inspected and approved by DPW prior to installation.

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10.11 MAINTENANCE OF PLANT MATERIAL Troop units and family housing occupants must mow the grass, water the lawn (if not done by an irrigation system), and prune trees and shrubs within their area of responsibility. Pruning small trees and shrubs within the unit or by the family housing occupant is allowed to provide clearance over walkways, for safety, and for aesthetic purposes. Tools are available from the family housing self-help store on the installation. Guidelines for correct pruning procedures are listed in Agronomy Design Guidelines. Contact the DECAM Agronomy Branch or the family housing contractor to prune trees and shrubs that are too difficult or too tall (those that cannot be reached from the ground). It is recommended that any contractors cutting trees on Fort Carson have a minimum license with Colorado Springs (City of Colorado Springs Tree Service Licensing, City Code 2.3.301) to do so, preferably the contractor is an ISA certified arborist. The city requires contractors to take a pruning text to ensure that they can cut correctly.

FOLLOW PROPER TREE PRUNING PROCEDURES

Watering lawns on Fort Carson is permitted only when necessary, and never more than once every two days. In the family housing areas, even numbered houses water on even numbered days; odd numbered houses on odd numbered days. Watering should only be done in the early morning or late evening to avoid water loss to evaporation. Watering should not be done when the wind is blowing or when there is a threat of rain. Follow the guidelines above for determining the amount of water to apply and when. See the Watering Guide in the DECAM Agronomy Design Guidelines.

10.12 TREE PROTECTION & PRESERVATION Existing urban trees and forest should be preserved if they are in good health. Construction should be planned to provide for the preservation of significant trees. All trees deemed necessary for removal are subject to Referenced Memorandum DAIM-ED, 11 Jan 2007. This policy dictates that all merchantable wood products on Army Lands may not be abandoned, destroyed, or donated. Fort Carson had a merchantable wood products sales program. All wood greater than 8" diameter will be cut into 14-16" lengths and dropped off at Building 155 woodlot (Community Recycle Center east of Gate 3). It is recommended that any contractors cutting trees on Fort Carson have a minimum license with Colorado Springs (City of Colorado Springs Tree Service Licensing, City Code 2.3.301) to do so, preferably the contractor is an ISA certified arborist. The city requires contractors to take a pruning text to ensure that they can cut correctly. During the clearing and construction process, trees should be protected from damage. Construction barricades should be erected to protect the existing trees to be preserved. The barricades should be no closer to the trunk of the tree than one-half the distance from the trunk to the drip line. Existing trees Fort Carson IDG

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Ft Carson IDG that cannot be preserved should be considered for transplanting to a different location on site or to a different site. Changes in the grade of the soil around trees can cause extensive root damage and eventually the death of the tree. To prevent damage to a tree, it is important to maintain the existing grade for least the size of the tree’s canopy (the drip line). For more information see in FHWA/TX-04/0-4548-1 (partially included below) for further the tree protection standards on Fort Carson.

10.12.1 RECOMMENDED TREE AND LANDFORM PROTECTIONS STANDARDS (PORTION OF DOCUMENT FHWA/TX-04/0-4548-1 10.12.1.1 PROTECTED ROOT ZONE The protected root zone is the area from the edge of the tree trunk outward for a distance equal to one and one-half (1½) times the distance from the trunk to the outer edge of the tree canopy foliage (drip line) at it farthest dimension. Preferred Root Protection Zone – recommended area to be designated for protection, 1 ½ times the distance to the drip line. Critical Root Zone – minimum area to be designated for protection, the distance to the drip line. Prohibited activities: Parking of any vehicles Erection of any shed or structure Storage of any equipment or materials Use by people for any reason Dumping of any waste materials or liquids Impoundment of water Addition of fill-soil Excavation of any type

10.12.1.2 BARRIER FENCES 6’ chain-link fence (or High Density Polyethylene) on 8’ steel “T-post” spaced 6’ on-center and driven 2’ deep into the ground. Barriers will be erected on the line established by the engineer and/or according to the details and notes on the plan.

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10.12.1.3 WOOD PLANKING To protect the trunk against any accidental contact with heavy equipment or tools, whenever construction activities must take place within 6 ft, secure wood completely planking around the trunk. The planking should be 2x4 lumber, self spaced around the trunk, and bound with a durable wire or rope material. Do not use any nails or screws to affix the planks as this will damage the tree. As soon the construction within the root zone area is complete, remove the planking and the surface protection. Use hand tools to remove mulch or gravel surface protection.

10.12.1.4 FILTRATION BERMS Shredded hardwood mulch berm placed immediately inside the protective fencing. Compost is optional.

10.12.1.5 GRADE CHANGES (CUT & FILL) Grade changes are discouraged within the protected root zone. Grade changes within the CRZ must follow procedures shown in the details.

10.12.1.6 TRENCHING Trenching within the protected root zone is discouraged and forbidden within the CRZ except under specific conditions and using specific construction methods. Within the CRZ: bore at 3’ below grade Outside CRZ: bore beneath, expose roots and prune, or expose roots and thread utilities below roots.

10.12.1.7 EXPOSED ROOTS Roots exposed within the protected root zone will be covered with an approved material within 24 hours after exposure. Hardwood mulch; compost optional.

10.12.1.8 ROOT PRUNING Where root removal is required, roots greater than 1” in diameter must be exposed without damaging them and cut with approved tools.

10.12.1.9 SIDEWALKS NEAR TREES Maintain minimum clearance of 3’ between tree and new sidewalks. If closer than 3’ consider flexible paving (pavers). Recommend use of root barriers behind curbs if tree species warrants.

10.12.1.10 WATERING Supplemental irrigation will be not be required unless roots are damaged or removed within the CRZ. Recommended but left to engineer.

10.12.1.11 SOIL COMPACTION

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Ft Carson IDG Area of the protected root zone exposed to pedestrian or vehicular traffic must be covered with four inches of shredded hardwood bark or well-graded gravel over the affected area. For temporary or permanent situations. Must be removed when access is no longer needed.

10.12.1.12 PRUNING Pruning must be performed by a qualified arborist in accordance with the International Society of Arboriculture’s Tree-Pruning Guidelines and/or the ANSI 300 Pruning Standard. Pruning will be required: For reasons of safety To allow clearance of equipment near the CRZ where breakage may otherwise occur For removal of limbs that are dead or diseased Clearance above present or future travel lanes

10.12.1.13 CHEMICAL INSECT CONTROL Chemical control of damaging insect pests will be required only if the pest is present (exceptions include engraver beetles) and only by a qualified tree specialist.

10.12.1.14 DUST CONTROL There will be no requirement to spray trees or plants to remove foliar dust.

10.12.1.15 PROTECTION OF SENSITIVE LANDFORMS The protection of sensitive landforms shall conform to the standards for tree protection. See guidelines for discussion of possible sensitive landforms.

10.12.1.16 SIGNAGE DURING CONSTRUCTION (OPTIONAL) Metal signs at 50’ spacing through the length of the fence. Single trees will have a minimum of two signs placed on opposite sides of the tree 12” wide, 8” tall, 1” tall bold black letters.

10.12.1.17 POST-CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES Post-construction assessment required by certified tree specialist. See guidelines for list of inspection items.

10.12.1.18 POST-CONSTRUCTION PROTECTION ALTERNATIVES FOR SENSITIVE AREAS 18

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Fort Carson IDG Sensitive areas will receive post-construction protection. Three alternative procedures are provided. See guidelines for list.

10.12.1.19 DAMAGE TO EXISTING TREES The Contractor will be assessed for damages to trees designated to be protected that result from the Contractor's negligence or failure to comply with the requirements of the specifications. Damages should be assessed in accordance with the criteria established in the guide for plant appraisal, (using the current revised edition), by the International Society of Arboriculture. Damages at the rate applicable therein should be deducted from any monies due the Contractor as liquidated damages.

10.13 ANTITERRORISM / FORCE PROTECTION CONSIDERATIONS The presence of vegetation on an installation can have both beneficial and detrimental impacts on security. The selection and placement of landscape plant material on Army installations is an integral element in the provision of protective measures to reduce the threat of terrorism. Proper selection and placement of trees and shrubs can be utilized to provide visual screening without creating concealment for covert activity. The landscape architect responsible for tree placement USE TREES TO OBSCURE SIGHT LINES should work closely with installation force protection experts to design a landscape plan that provides visual screening without compromising antiterrorism measures. The plant material must allow building occupants to see out, but must not allow outside forces to monitor interior activity. The landscape architect should incorporate the following aspects into the design: Avoid conditions within 10 meters (33 feet) of inhabited structures that permit concealment of aggressors or obscure the view of objects or packages 150-millimeters (6 inches) in height or larger from the view of security personnel. This results in the placement of shrubs and trees that are loose rather than dense in growth habit and possess multiple small stems rather than a single trunk that will obscure a 150 mm (6 inch) package. Vegetation groupings provide reduction of blast effect. Plant material selection and placement shall minimize potential hiding places for bombs and aggressors. Provide vegetation screens for play areas and outdoor recreation areas to obscure from off-installation view. Use trees to obscure sight lines of on-installation buildings from off-installation buildings.

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10.14 IRRIGATION STANDARDS The following information was taken from the Colorado Springs Utilities Environmental section. Fort Carson is basing their standards on those developed by CSU.

10.14.1 BASIC COMPONENTS OF MANUAL OR AUTOMATIC IRRIGATION SYSTEMS. Manual above ground - a system using water hoses and hose-end sprinklers. The homeowner controls sprinkler time. Manual below ground - a below ground system with main shut off valve, backflow prevention device, sprinklers, low-flow irrigation components and pipe. The homeowner controls sprinkler time. Automatic above ground - generally a system using either low-flow or water hose irrigation components with an automatic controller. Automatic below ground - a system consisting of numerous components: main shut-off valve, backflow prevention device, controller, sprinklers, low-flow irrigation, pipe and wire. Standard Parts for Irrigation systems on Fort Carson I40 Hunter Rotor Irrigation Heads I20 Hunter Rotor Irrigation Heads PGP Hunter Rotor Irrigation Heads Rain Bird Impact Irrigation Heads Rain Bird Pop Up Spray Irrigation Heads Rain Bird Valves Rain Bird Irrigation Controllers Febco or Watts Back Flows

10.14.2 WATER SAVING IRRIGATION DESIGN Studies have shown that those systems for which the owner must evaluate whether the landscape needs water and then sets the amount of time that the water will be applied are water saving systems. Such a systems could be a manual or automatic system where the owner either turns the water on and sets a timer or manually sets the time each cycle. However, no matter which system owners use, when they use the equipment properly and match it to the landscape's needs, they can achieve watering efficiency. Flexible and reliable irrigation control is a very important part of a water efficient irrigation design. Whether the controller is the owner or an irrigation clock, the key components are the same. The manual system controlled by the homeowner is of the most flexible. If an automatic controller is used, the features which will maximize efficiency are the following: 20 Fort Carson IDG

Fort Carson IDG The ability to accurately time water application. Multiple hydrozone and program options which allow individual areas to be watered according to their needs. A 7- or 14-day program calendar to provide programming flexibility. Multiple repeat cycles to minimize run-off. For example, the ability to program a station that waters a slope to do so in several short cycles rather than one long one. Rain Sensors Type of Emitters Spray sprinkler heads work well in small, irregular shaped areas. Rotary sprinkler heads are better suited for large open areas. Low-flow irrigation applies water to individual trees and shrubs. Bubblers will apply water at a faster rate than either drip or microsprays. Drip and microspray irrigation systems operate at lower pressure and lower flow rates, which may require a pressure regulator and filtration. It is generally acceptable to mix drip and microsprays on the same zone but not drip and spray.

10.14.3 CREATING ZONES IN AN IRRIGATION DESIGN When zoning an irrigation system, it is important to separate zones of different equipment, areas with plant materials having different water requirements, and areas of differing micro-climates. For example, a south-facing turf area using spray sprinklers will have different water requirements from a turf area on the north side of a building. Similarly, the irrigation of landscaped slopes that are steep enough to result in run-off should have separate zones for sprinklers at the top and bottom of the slope. The cost of adding extra zones to the landscape is worth it because less water will be wasted, and plants watered correctly will be healthier.

10.15 ARMY STANDARDS The cited Army standards shall be met. Army Regulation (AR) 420-70, Buildings and Structures. Technical Manual (TM) 5-630, Natural Resources Land Management. Technical Manual (TM) 5-803-13, Landscape Design and Planting. Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) 4-010-01, DoD Minimum Antiterrorism Standards for Buildings. Fort Carson IDG

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Ft Carson IDG American Standard for Nursery Stock, ANSI Z60.1. Overseas (Host Nation Standards). Sustainable Design and Development Policy Update, ASA (I&E), 5 Jan 06; ECB 2006-2, Sustainable Design and Development

10.16 REFERENCES The following references are provided for guidance. Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) 2-600-01, Installation Design, Chapter 10. USAF Landscape Design Guide. C. Brickell and D. Joyce. Pruning and Training, 1996. US Army Corps of Engineers web site Engineering Knowledge Online

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Fort Carson IDG