Nature Ignores Design That Ignores Nature (On Demand)

Description

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this presentation, attendees should be able to:

• Explain how a well-integrated design process and a multi-disciplinary design team can collaborate on successful projects and develop better site plans to integrate rainfall using innovative design methods when they are engaged early in the process.
• Cite examples of real life design techniques, approaches, principles, objectives, successes, pitfalls and roadblocks when integrating building, site and landscape for rainfall integration.
• Understand patterns of hydrology and landscape by taking cues from nature to better integrate rainfall by using logical efficiencies and proven methods.
• Explain about existing threats to OUR water and how by adopting a better water ethic, we as designers can make an immediate impact on water quality.

About the Presenter

Tom Mortensen, PLA, ASLA – Site Planner / Landscape Architect
Tom Mortensen has over 35 years of experience in site design, landscape architecture and related design and construction professions. Tom has expertise in site planning, urban spaces, park and public open space design, memorials / public plazas, retail developments, restoration plans and integrated stormwater management / green infrastructure.

He has worked on design projects with for US Forest Service, National Park Service, Boy Scouts of America, Native American Tribes and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Tom has given presentations throughout the region at various conferences and events on topics pertaining to site design, master planning, rainfall integration / green infrastructure, water quality and site development. Since 2011, he has been teaching a class at the UWM School of Continuing Education in the Water Technology Certification program on the topic of green infrastructure and using native landscape and site design for more resilient management of rainfall on sites.