ASLA Oregon

April 4, 2012 Edit

in Advocacy

ASLA Report to Our Members

via Nancy C. Somerville, Hon. ASLA
Executive Vice President and CEO
American Society of Landscape Architects

American Society of Landscape Architects
Annual 2011: A Report to Our Members

As we dive into what promises to be another very busy year for ASLA, I wanted to take a moment to review our accomplishments in 2011. Despite a very challenging economy that has affected us all, ASLA members and their Society made real progress in raising awareness of the profession and ensuring that the profession’s voice was heard.

On August 17, 1,000 volunteers hit the streets, the parks, and the sidewalks in their communities to share examples of landscape architecture projects and to explain the benefits your work brings to people’s lives. More than 250 events, half of which involved direct, one-on-one discussions, happened almost simultaneously. Collectively, these events generated more than 80 news stories in all media, reaching an estimated 15 million people.

So who says one person can’t make a difference? There are less than 30,000 people employed in the landscape architecture field in a nation of more than 312 million. Yet we were heard, big time. And we’ve only just begun.

Working hand-in-hand with our chapters and their dedicated public-awareness volunteers, we will continue that engagement with activities at the grassroots level supported by resources created by the national office. And this April chapters across the nation will once again celebrate National Landscape Architecture Month, introducing the profession to the public through a series of standalone events while also coordinating a common public outreach on April 26, Frederick Law Olmsted’s birthday.

On the PR and communications side, much of our energy—and creativity—continues to be focused on web communications, because of the ability of the web to reach the largest audience. In 2011, the site attracted 644,000 unique visitors and more than 5 million pageviews, continuing healthy year-to-year growth.

To complement the public awareness materials, we have developed special areas on the site to serve as resources for policy makers, educators, students, and members of the other design and construction industries.

As part of the 08.17.11 events, we launched www.asla.org/design, a basic introduction to the profession as a destination for the curious public. So far, it has received more than 55,000 pageviews.

Designing Our Future: Sustainable Landscapes features 30 case studies and eight animations that detail sustainable landscape design. These resources have attracted more than 370,000 pageviews thus far, and the animations have been viewed an additional 85,000 times.

To establish landscape architects in the forefront of discussions of key issues affecting the profession, we have developed detailed resource centers around topics such as transportation, green infrastructure, and livable communities, as well as corresponding resources for residential projects.

And we continue to leverage The Dirt blog to keep our voice in the mix. The blog is widely read and syndicated, consistently ranks among the top 10 on environmental subjects, and has received some 1.3 million pageviews since relaunch in 2009

These outreach efforts provide a solid foundation to support our equally significant progress on the advocacy front, in spite of the challenging political environment in Washington.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is in the midst of a critical national rulemaking on stormwater. The process started with an EPA-commissioned National Research Council study on the effectiveness of the Agency’s current stormwater program. NRC’s conclusion: Big pipes and grey infrastructure are not going to solve the problem, but green infrastructure and low-impact development can.

To support its rulemaking, EPA asked ASLA to help document the use and effectiveness of green infrastructure approaches. We turned to you, and set an ambitious goal of 300 projects. You responded with 479 case studies, covering 43 states, D.C, and Canada. We provided all that data to EPA, and those case studies are now catalogued and available on the ASLA website. These projects are a compelling demonstration of the value of green infrastructure—and the critical role of landscape architects.

Another priority focus this year has been transportation. With the surface transportation bill coming up for renewal, we are advocating for inclusion of a federal Complete Streets policy in the legislation, along with supporting essential existing programs that support transportation alternatives, enhance community livability, and provide jobs for landscape architects.

Many of these programs came under a barrage of attacks in 2011, especially the transportation enhancements program. An example: On October 17, ASLA’s government affairs staff learned of a serious threat: Senator John McCain was preparing to offer an amendment to a fiscal year 2012 spending bill to gut the transportation enhancements program.

Since McCain did not include bicycle and trail projects on his hit list, many of our usual coalition partners opted not to challenge the proposal. So ASLA took the lead. We prepared a letter in opposition, got 12 other organizations to sign on, and put the letter into the hands of each senator’s chief of staff, legislative director, and transportation legislative assistant. And we sent out a red alert to all of you through our Advocacy Network. You responded. We had the best performance from the Advocacy Network to date, with 655 activists sending 1,338 messages to their senators over the two days preceding the vote.

It worked. The roll-call vote on October 19 was 59 to 39 to table the amendment, essentially killing it.

Your grassroots-level advocacy, combined with our D.C.-based outreach efforts, not only reversed the threat, but also raised ASLA’s profile on Capitol Hill. ASLA was cited by the influential Democratic Policy Committee as an opponent of the amendment, and multiple senate staffers cited ASLA’s opposition and outreach as a major contributing factor to votes against the amendment.

Threats are continuing, and vigilance and quick action are still required. I commend you all for your support of ASLA and your direct involvement in issues of importance to the profession and to the country. It would be easy in such very difficult and stubborn financial times to lose faith and withdraw. That’s not our style, and the relative health of ASLA and the profession is testimony to that, as are such success stories as I’ve just shared.

There’s a lot more I could tell you about, like the changes I hope you’ve been noticing in our fantastic Landscape Architecture Magazine, the second-largest Annual Meeting and largest Expo in ASLA history, and the progress of our Sustainable Sites Initiative partnership. I urge you to stay engaged and help us help you, as you all did so effectively in 2011. Thank you all.

Nancy C. Somerville

March 30, 2012 Edit

in Advocacy

March 2012 Newswire

 

MARCH 2012

UPCOMING CHAPTER EVENTS (APRIL IS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE MONTH!) 04.20 | ASLA Oregon North Park Block Design Charrette 04.20 | ASLA Oregon Emerging Professionals Social 04.21 | ASLA Oregon Enlightened Landscape[s] Symposium 04.26 | UO A&AA Career Symposium  04.26 | Pine Nursery Design Charrette 04.26 | FLO's Birthday! 06.14 | ASLA Oregon EP 101 Series: Greenroof Tour + Roundtable - PDH Opportunity! OTHER UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES 03.31 | Community Horticultural Therapy Program 04.04 | Community Trees Field Class 04.13 | BCSLA Annual Conference 05.02 | Living Future unConference  05.03 | UFIS Soils and Urban Tree Conference 05.17 | Landscape Field Day 06.02 | Portland Memory Garden PDH Seminar 06.03 | Portland Memory Garden Open House 06.07 | Oregon Urban & Community Forestry Conference 08.05 | Transportation Research Board Meeting ASLA OREGON CHAPTER 2012 SYMPOSIUM Elevate your understanding of landscape by taking it to a higher level. ASLA Oregon invites you to expand your thinking over two days of inspired guest speakers, discussions and a design charrette. Join us for learning and networking opportunities, as well as the opportunity to earn valuable professional development hours (PDH’s). download promotional mailer PDF more information + registration - REGISTER BY 3/30 FOR EARLY BIRD RATES! 2012 sponsorship opportunities become a 2012 supporting sponsor for just $100! Your company name will be featured on the event program!  PRESENTING SPONSOR ASLA Oregon Chapter is pleased to announce our 2012 Enlightened Landscape[s] Symposium Presenting Sponsor: Buell Recreation, LLC specializes in providing a variety of commercial quality park and playground products to public and private organizations throughout the western United States. We pride ourselves in representing proven manufacturers with the highest standards of integrity, who develop safe, durable and innovative products. Learn more about Buell Recreation View 2012 ASLA Oregon Chapter Sponsorship Opportunities View 2012 ASLA Oregon Chapter Sponsors Page landbytes  Launched in July of 2011, LANDbytes is ASLA Oregon Chapter's premier e-publication showcasing articles, briefs, reviews, spotlights and more! New this month: Get Ready! Landscape Architecture Month is Coming! By Rebecca Wahlstrom Happy Birthday, FLO! By Rebecca Wahlstrom AnnouncementS AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION April is Landscape Architecture Month! NLAM, 04.26, and YOU Executive Committee Call for Volunteers Communications Committee Call for Volunteers Summer Internships New Landscape Architecture Flyers! ASLA Notes and Numbers Facts and Figures PDF KEEPING YOURSELF CURRENT Please help us keep our mailing list current. Send updates or corrections of your contact information to info@aslaoregon.org. Contact Us Executive Committee and other contact information is available at the Chapter Website. For mailing and other administrative inquiries about the chapter, contact: ASLA Oregon Chapter 147 SE 102nd Avenue Portland, Oregon 97216 phone: 503.227.6156 fax: 503.253.9172 info@aslaoregon.org Follow Us Oregon ASLA Facebook Page Oregon ASLA on Twitter Oregon ASLA Blog LANDbytes Event Calendar Check out the online Calendar of Events for the most up-to-date listing of opportunities!

March 29, 2012 Edit

in Advocacy

Happy Birthday, FLO!

ASLA Oregon LANDbytes MARCH 2012 Feature:

Happy Birthday, FLO!
By Rebecca Wahlstrom

What are you doing on April 26? Join the coast to coast party, celebrating the 190th birthday of Mr. Frederick Law Olmsted with all your fellow ASLA members! April 26 is a day to remember and celebrate the man who first brought to the forefront many of the ideas that we practice today in Landscape Architecture. So gather some friends, blow out some birthday candles for Mr. Olmsted, and make a wish for the continuation of great designs that stand the test of time. 

Check out more fun ways to celebrate Landscape Architecture month at www.aslaoregon.org/updates/articles/national-landscape-architecture-month.

Visit ASLA Oregon's NLAM Webpage!

March 29, 2012 Edit

in Advocacy

National Landscape Architecture Month!

ASLA Oregon LANDbytes MARCH 2012 Feature:

Get Ready! National Landscape Architecture Month is Coming!
By Rebecca Wahlstrom

April has been set aside by the ASLA as a month when activities happen nationwide to celebrate and promote the profession of landscape architecture. The focus of this month’s activities is “Public Health and Active Living 2012”, showing how we are addressing the major problems of obesity and chronic health problems due to lack of exercise by designing healthy community structures. This topic is a great fit for our active state – what a perfect chance to show people how we promote healthy lifestyles. Are there playgrounds or trail systems where you can show people how landscape architecture has been part of its creation? How about plaza’s where farmers markets happen or places where people wait to catch the MAX or bus? Can you get out there and let people know who designed that space? Now is the time to celebrate all you have done and promote the future of landscape architecture.

You might be asking, “what can I do?” Glad you asked! ASLA has put forward a whole webpage of ideas for activities along with detailed instructions and tips (and has a picture of Portland’s Mt. Tabor Middle School rain garden design). The below is just a sampling of what the website provides on the ‘Career Discovery Activities’ page. http://www.aslaoregon.org/updates/articles/national-landscape-architecture-month.  Boy Scout troops can learn about plants and earn a badge during your time with them; Connect with middle and high-school students and design a rain garden or reading garden; Are you a native plant expert? Visit your local high school and show them how essential native plants are to our landscape.

One doesn’t need to be hampered by this list – create your own activity that will appeal to you and the audience you wish to reach. Back on 8.17.11, the first roll-out of the Understory, the Bend folks led a design charrette, people in Springfield did a workplace information blast to enlighten their co-workers on what their department had accomplished, and Portland canvassed downtown parks. http://www.aslaoregon.org/blog/2011/9/14/dues-increase-effective-january-2012 What will Oregon do this time to celebrate landscape architecture? I believe our fit and active state is primed and ready to show off all that we have done to promote physical activity and public health to the general public and to the nation. Be creative – have fun – and be sure to let people know about landscape architecture in April!

Visit ASLA Oregon's NLAM Webpage!

March 17, 2012 Edit

in Advocacy

April is National Landscape Architecture Month!

National Landscape Architecture Month 2012 (NLAM) Quick Links:

NLAM HOMEPAGE 

NLAM PUBLIC AWARENESS CAMPAIGN 

NLAM POSTERS FOR DOWNLOAD

CAREER DISCOVERY ACTIVITIES

NLAM 2011 RECAP

FREDERICK LAW OLMSTED & THE CAMPAIGN FOR PUBLIC HEALTH

APRIL 2012 National, State and Local Activities:

04.04.12 COMMUNITY TREES FIELD CLASS

04.20.12 ASLA OREGON NORTH PARK BLOCK DESIGN CHARRETTE

04.20.12 ASLA OREGON EMERGING PROFESSIONALS SOCIAL

04.21.12 ASLA OREGON ENLIGHTENED LANDSCAPE[S] SYMPOSIUM

04.26.12 AND YOU

04.26.12 THE UNDERSTORY

04.26.12 UNIVERSITY OF OREGON A&AA CAREER SYMPOSIUM

January 10, 2012 Edit

in Advocacy

ASLA Legislative Victories, Potential Future Successes

via LAND e-news from ASLA

In 2011, ASLA successfully worked with federal legislators and other policymakers on a number of issues that benefit landscape architects and their small businesses. As the first session of the 112th Congress concluded, ASLA celebrated a number of legislative victories and set the stage for future policy successes on behalf of the landscape architecture profession.

Economic Recovery for Landscape Architects
One of the most important legislative victories for ASLA came on November 19, 2011, when President Barack Obama signed into law H.R. 674, legislation to repeal the law that required a 3 percent withholding on all payments from federal, state, and local government. With the repeal of this law, businesses, including landscape architecture firms, will not be forced to forfeit 3 percent of all payments received from federal, state, and local governments for services rendered under government contracts. As a member of the Government Withholding Relief Coalition, ASLA worked diligently to repeal this law that would have been onerous for many landscape architecture firms, including restricting the much-needed cash flow of these firms.

In 2011, ASLA also urged the Small Business Administration (SBA) not to increase the cap for gross annual revenues for consideration as a small landscape architecture business for federal government contracting purposes from $7 million to $19 million. With 80 percent of all landscape architecture firms having less than $1 million in gross annual revenue, raising the dollar amount to $19 million for consideration as a small business could severely disadvantage nearly all landscape architecture firms in the country. Currently, SBA is reviewing ASLA’s recommendation not to increase the dollar amount and will respond in the near future.

Transportation Planning and Design
Federal transportation policy was an important priority for ASLA in 2011. ASLA Government Affairs worked diligently to protect and preserve transportation programs critical to landscape architects, including the Transportation Enhancements, Safe Routes to School, and Recreational Trails programs, while also advocating for a new federal Complete Streets policy.

In 2011, ASLA staved off several attacks to the Transportation Enhancements (TE) program when U.S. Senators Tom Coburn (OK), John McCain (AZ), and Rand Paul (KY) each offered an amendment to various transportation bills to eliminate or gut the highly successful TE program. During consideration of each of these amendments, ASLA and its grassroots activists urged their senators to reject these amendments and pointed out the myriad of benefits provided by the TE program, including the economic benefits to communities and critical jobs for landscape architects. As a result of these advocacy efforts, the Senate rejected these amendments and left the TE program intact for now.

After years of consistent advocacy efforts by ASLA Government Affairs and the ASLA grass roots, another important legislative victory came on December 14, 2011, when the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation unanimously adopted an amendment authored by Senators Mark Begich (AK) and John Thune (SD) to establish a federal Complete Streets policy. Specifically, the Begich/Thune amendment would call on the Secretary of Transportation to “establish standards to ensure that the design of federal surface transportation projects provides for the safe and adequate accommodation, in all phases of project planning, development, and operation, of users of the transportation network, including motorized and nonmotorized users.” Under the amendment, states with their own Complete Streets policies would get a waiver from the federal policy. The Begich/Thune amendment was adopted as part of S. 1950, the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Enhancement Act, which is the Senate Commerce Committee’s portion of the reauthorization of the surface transportation law that addresses freight and safety issues. This is the first time that a federal Complete Streets policy has been included in a major piece of federal legislation.

While these are important successes for the landscape architecture profession, ASLA will continue its efforts in 2012 to ensure that the final reauthorization of the surface transportation law includes a federal Complete Streets policy and robust TE, Safe Routes to School, and Recreational Trails programs.

Promoting Green Infrastructure
In the 112th Congress, ASLA Government Affairs continued its work to promote the use of green infrastructure to address a number of national issues, including managing water. In 2011, ASLA submitted 479 case studies on landscape architecture projects that successfully and sustainably manage stormwater to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). As EPA prepares to unveil a proposed rule to strengthen the national stormwater program, these projects will demonstrate the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of using green infrastructure to help manage our nation’s stormwater. To further highlight green infrastructure and landscape architecture design techniques, on May 26, 2011, ASLA hosted more than 60 congressional, administration, and affiliated organization staff for the ASLA congressional briefing, tour, and reception on our award-winning green roof.

ASLA also worked with Congresswoman Donna Edwards (MD) and Senator Tom Udall (NM) to reintroduce the Green Infrastructure for Clean Water Act (H.R. 2030, S. 1115) ( http://www.asla.org/FederalGovernmentAffairs.aspx?id=25688), which would provide assistance to communities that want to employ green infrastructure projects to address their water quality and quantity needs. ASLA is working to gain cosponsors for the measures and move them through the legislative process.

read the full story at LAND e-news

January 10, 2012 Edit

in Advocacy

ASLA Awards: Strategies for Success

via LAND e-news from ASLA

An open letter from José Almiñana, FASLA, ASLA Professional Awards Jury Chair

The ASLA 2012 awards call for entries is currently accepting submissions for professionals and students. As a jury member and chair, I’ve seen thousands of entries and would like to offer these strategies for success:

Commit to a great submission.
A winning submission takes time. If it is put together quickly at the last minute, it probably will not win. Submissions take twice as long as anticipated; for that reason, do not delay, and allow more time than you think it will take. The more time invested is clearly seen by the jurors and sets your project apart.

Design your presentation.
Treat the submittal like the design of any project. It needs to be clear, concise, and beautiful, yet simple and easy for the jury to digest. Do the drawings and the photographs communicate your concepts and ideas? How do the colors work with the photographs? How do you start the story and how do you end it? The presentation design needs to be as thoughtful as the project. The jury sees many submittals; make sure the jury understands why your submission is worthy of consideration.

Tell your story clearly.
What are the important ideas? Why should this project win? You need to tell the jury clearly through diagrams, narrative, and photographs. Idea and concept drawings are extremely helpful. A concise project description is appreciated. Explain how the goals of the project are resolved through the design. Provide the jury with adequate diagrams to explain your design concept. Locus plans or an overall site aerial view photograph help the jury understand your design concepts immediately.

Hire a professional photographer.
Your work is worthy of great photography. It makes a difference and pays back. Take the time to research and find a good photographer. It is better to have a few great photographs than several insignificant photos. Do not settle for mediocre photographs due to time, money, or ease. Edit the shots, decide which tell the best story, and invest in keeping good images of the work you have spent so much energy to create. If you cannot afford a photographer, make sure your pictures are the highest digital quality.

Get a crit before you submit.
Have a professional peer who is not familiar with the project critique your submittal. Listen carefully to the comments. Is the story clear? Did he or she understand quickly? How would the peer improve the submittal? Take the comments seriously. The jury process is the same as having your peers review the submittal and evaluate your work. Be sure to benefit from a “pre-jury.”

Submit on time.
The most important piece of advice for a successful entry is to submit it on time. The 2012 entry deadlines are:

Entry forms and payment must be received by:

Friday, February 3, 2012, for Professional Awards
Friday, April 27, 2012, for Student Awards.
Submission binders must be received by:

Friday, February 17, 2012, for Professional Awards
Friday, May 11, 2012, for Student Awards.
In need of inspiration? View the ASLA 2011 Professional and Student award-winning projects.

José Almiñana, FASLA
ASLA Professional Awards Jury Chair
Andropogon Associates Ltd.

December 15, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

President Obama Signs Repeal of 3% Withholding Law

via the ASLA Advocacy Network

Dear Advocates,

On November 19, President Barack Obama signed into law H.R. 674, legislation to repeal the law that requires a three percent withholding on all payments from federal, state and local government. With the repeal of this law, small businesses, including landscape architecture firms, will not be forced to forfeit three percent of all payments received from federal, state, and local governments for services rendered under government contracts.

The three percent withholding requirement was originally passed in section 511 of the “Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005” (P.L. 109-222), which would have required federal, state, and local governments with more than $100 million in annual expenditures to withhold three percent of their payments for goods and services. As a result of the law, businesses and government entities could have been burdened with restructuring computer systems and training and hiring new accountants and office managers to assist in complying with the new accounting procedures. Moreover, many small businesses, including landscape architecture firms, would have been disadvantaged because the up-front tax withholding would severely restrict cash flow and could disrupt their ability to provide goods and services.

As a member of the Government Withholding Relief Coalition, ASLA has been working diligently to repeal this law that would have been onerous for many landscape architecture firms. Also, thanks to the advocacy efforts of ASLA members and other allied organizations who contacted their legislators, Congress overwhelming supported the legislation to repeal this law, moved it through the legislative process, and onto President Obama for his signature.

Thank you for your continued advocacy efforts.

Roxanne Blackwell
Federal Government Affairs Manager
The American Society of Landscape Architects

October 10, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

ASLA Advocacy E-Summit

via Julia Lent, Government Affairs Director, American Society of Landscape Architects:

The Advocacy Summit is now taking to the web! In August, we announced that we will be holding quarterly webinars to give Advocacy Summiteers the opportunity to get the latest information on advocacy strategies and events as well as a chance to share what is happening in your chapter. Originally, the plan was to hold the first webinar today, but let’s just say that events conspired against us, so the first Advocacy E-Summit will be held Thursday, October 20 at 2pm ET – 1pm CT – Noon MT – 11am PT – 10am AK – 9am HI.

As you may recall, the suggestion for these webinars was given at the Summit. If you have a specific topic that you would like to address, a question to ask, or a success story to share please let us know!

Homework: To help organize the agenda for the E-Summit, please fill out this short 5-question survey, which can gauge progress and feedback on many of the topics we discussed in July: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/AdvocacyQuarterly. Please complete the survey by COB October 14.

Webinar Login information:
Topic: ASLA Advocacy E-Summit
Date: Thursday, October 20, 2011
Time: 2:00 pm, Eastern Daylight Time (New York, GMT-04:00)
Meeting Number: 595 604 174 (This meeting does not require a password.)

September 14, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

08.17.11 in Oregon RECAP

08.17.11 - PORTLAND

A hardy band of landscape architects hit downtown plazas during lunchtime. Clothed in spiffy “The Understory” shirts and carrying brochures that explained the profession, they connected directly to the public in public spaces. This approach had mixed reviews; some thought it was successful, some not so much. The successful tended to approach folks not already talking to their friends and just were sitting there, enjoying their lunch. Dave Walters from MIG suggested that next time a central station could be set up in a space without competing events, so that the public could approach us, instead of us advancing on them. People are wary of strangers approaching them while holding out a piece of paper; both Dave and Emily Hull, of Parsons Brinckerhoff, suggested we need to think up a showier way to convey our message and intrigue the public. The general feeling was that they had a fun experience and would certainly do it again, especially knowing the things that could be improved. (via Rebecca Wahlstrom & ASLA Oregon LANDbytes)

08.17.11 - Portland

08.17.11 - Portland

08.17.11 - Portland

08.17.11 - BEND

Robin Gyorgyfalvy from the US Forest Services & Scenic Byways Program and Chelsea Schneider of WH Pacific organized the charrette for Alford Acres, a Habitat for Humanity urban farm project that not only grows food for the residents, but also gives the surplus to Common Table, a charitable café in Bend. As Robin said, they wanted to do an event that would be ongoing and show people that landscape architects can take the lead in substantial projects. The event brought permaculturists, planners, master gardeners, students, LEED designers, landscape architects and public artists all together at one table; allowing them an opportunity to make some powerful connections which will benefit the community in the future. Robin noted that during the work session there was a lot of talking and not much being put to paper; it took the LA’s in the group to translate the words into graphics. The executives from Habitat for Humanity were part of the design team and were amazed by the level of energy and creativity being generated in the room. Robin said that Bend’s main goal was to have an event that was demonstrative of what landscape architects did best; be collaborators and connectors for the community. All evidence points to a successful Understory launch in Bend –we’re looking forward to seeing what comes next! (via Rebecca Wahlstrom & ASLA Oregon LANDbytes)

08.17.11 - Bend

08.17.11 - Bend

08.17.11 - Bend

08.17.11 - SPRINGFIELD

Nicole Ankeney and Jake Risley, from the Willamalane Park and Recreation District in Springfield, knew that since there was just the two of them they were not able to field a big event, so they used technology to their advantage. A catchy and informative email was sent to the Parks and Recreation employee email list that explained the profession and gave some local examples of what their department of landscape architects did. Nicole reports that the response to the email was very positive, with people asking more questions and thanking them for their work. Springfield is a great example of bringing awareness not only to the public at large, but also to the people we work with everyday in a multi-disciplinary environment. (via Rebecca Wahlstrom & ASLA Oregon LANDbytes)

08.17.11 - Springfield

September 14, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

The Story on the Understory

via ASLA Oregon LANDbytes SEPTEMBER 2011:

The Story on the Understory
By Rebecca Wahlstrom

What were you doing on 8.17.11? I hope that you were out in your neck of the world celebrating the launch of The Understory. If you haven’t heard of The Understory yet, the goal of this two-year public awareness campaign is to educate the general public about landscape architecture. Around 175 events were held across the country with landscape architects getting out and meeting the public, holding charrettes, media coverage – anything to get the word out. Springfield, Portland, and Bend held events; Springfield sent out a media package to their co-workers via email, Portland folks met people during the lunch hour in some of the downtown plazas, and the Bend participants held a charrette for a Habitat for Humanity site. Since this is just the beginning of the ASLA’s quest to inform the public, I thought it would be worthwhile to see how it went on 8.17.11, and see how it could be even more successful in the future.

8.17.11 BEND: Robin Gyorgyfalvy from the US Forest Services & Scenic Byways Program and Chelsea Schneider of WH Pacific organized the charrette for Alford Acres, a Habitat for Humanity urban farm project that not only grows food for the residents, but also gives the surplus to Common Table, a charitable café in Bend. As Robin said, they wanted to do an event that would be ongoing and show people that landscape architects can take the lead in substantial projects. The event brought permaculturists, planners, master gardeners, students, LEED designers, landscape architects and public artists all together at one table; allowing them an opportunity to make some powerful connections which will benefit the community in the future. Robin noted that during the work session there was a lot of talking and not much being put to paper; it took the LA’s in the group to translate the words into graphics. The executives from Habitat for Humanity were part of the design team and were amazed by the level of energy and creativity being generated in the room. Robin said that Bend’s main goal was to have an event that was demonstrative of what landscape architects did best; be collaborators and connectors for the community. All evidence points to a successful Understory launch in Bend –we’re looking forward to seeing what comes next!

8.17.11 PORTLAND: A hardy band of landscape architects hit downtown plazas during lunchtime. Clothed in spiffy “The Understory” shirts and carrying brochures that explained the profession, they connected directly to the public in public spaces. This approach had mixed reviews; some thought it was successful, some not so much. The successful tended to approach folks not already talking to their friends and just were sitting there, enjoying their lunch. Dave Walters from MIG suggested that next time a central station could be set up in a space without competing events, so that the public could approach us, instead of us advancing on them. People are wary of strangers approaching them while holding out a piece of paper; both Dave and Emily Hull, of Parsons Brinckerhoff, suggested we need to think up a showier way to convey our message and intrigue the public. The general feeling was that they had a fun experience and would certainly do it again, especially knowing the things that could be improved.

8.17.11 SPRINGFIELD: Nicole Ankeney and Jake Risley, from the Willamalane Park and Recreation District in Springfield, knew that since there was just the two of them they were not able to field a big event, so they used technology to their advantage. A catchy and informative email was sent to the Parks and Recreation employee email list that explained the profession and gave some local examples of what their department of landscape architects did. Nicole reports that the response to the email was very positive, with people asking more questions and thanking them for their work. Springfield is a great example of bringing awareness not only to the public at large, but also to the people we work with everyday in a multi-disciplinary environment.

This isn’t the end to The Understory, it is only the first chapter. As Scott Mizee, from Alta Planning + Design said, no marketing campaign can be completed in a day, repetition is a must. This is only the beginning of a two year campaign, so be on the lookout for other chances to get out there and make our face known to the community. You might want to ask yourself before the next opportunity to meet the neighborhood. How are you going to engage the public at the next event? If you had 30 seconds, what are the relevant points you want to express about your profession? Once the public has met you, what do you want them to do with the information? Do you want them to support parks initiatives that come onto the ballot? Appreciate how urban spaces are formed? Knowing exactly what we want as an outcome will help us focus our efforts and open up creative avenues to show the public our clever and resourceful ways. If you want to be sure to be a part of the next chapter of The Understory follow it on Facebook at facebook.com/theunderstory and keep a close eye on the Oregon ASLA website for more information. Your Environment. Designed.

September 12, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

08.17.11 Nationals Report

August 15, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

Landscape Architecture. Your Environment. Designed.

What if, for just one day, we all decided to let everyone know what the heck landscape architects do. That we create the very places used to live, work and play. That we connect cities. That we create experience. That landscape architecture is your environment, designed.

08.17.11 is that day. It’s the day the profession reintroduces itself to public. It’s the day where, for only your time spent during lunch, you’ll join the beginning of a new movement – a movement to get out and tell your story to the world.

It’s not too late to get involved. Here’s how:

Use this map to find out what’s happening near you or contact the closest landscape architect representative for further info.

Create your own lunchtime activity. Watch this video to get an idea. Use chalk to mark “Designed by a Landscape Architect” on your favorite landscape architecture project and hand out these campaign materials. This is also a great opportunity to promote your own projects. Email thedate@asla.org to add your activity to the map or for more event ideas.

Post pictures and videos from your event on Twitter, using the hashtags #landarch and #design. On Facebook, share your activities at the campaign page www.facebook.com/theunderstory.

Be there for the beginning. Take one hour to speak with one voice on one day for one profession, ours. Make 08.17.11 a landscape architecture day.

Portland Landscape Architects will meet in downtown Portland at Pioneer Courthouse Square and Director Park from 12-1pm on August 17th to talk to the public about landscape architecture. These two parks are some of the most used and beloved examples of landscape architecture in Portland. Our goal is for more people to understand what the field of landscape architecture is.

Landscape Architects are licensed professionals who design the places where we live, work, and play. We connect cities. We create experience. We design, protect, and preserve your environment. Landscape architecture is an interdisciplinary field that incorporates natural sciences, horticulture, architectural design, engineering, transportation and circulation design, historic preservation, and environmental education. We manage the relationship between the built and natural environment. Landscape architects design parks, urban plazas, roads, restored natural areas, zoos, shopping centers, stormwater runoff facilities, green roofs, and more.

August 5, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

Call for Volunteers - FREE T-SHIRT!

ASLA Oregon needs your help!

Do you have one hour to volunteer for your profession?

The world needs to know about Landscape Architecture, and 08.17.11 is the day it all begins.

Check out this Google Map of 08.17.11 Events nationwide!

What if, for just one day, we all decided to let everyone know what the heck landscape architects do. That we create the very places used to live, work, and play. That we connect cities. That we create experience. That Landscape Architecture is your environment, designed.

08.17.11 is that day. It’s the day the profession reintroduces itself to public. It’s the day where, for only your time spent during lunch, you’ll join the beginning of a new nationwide movement – a movement to step out of the Understory and tell your story to the world.

In Portland, landscape architects will be at Pioneer Courthouse Square from 12-1pm on August 17th to spread the word. Please join us - you'll get a free t-shirt and the satisfaction of helping build your profession.

Interested? Email christopher@kochla.com for more information about the Portland event, and check out The Understory on Facebook for general information.

Volunteer Now!

FREE T-SHIRT front

FREE T-SHIRT back

July 26, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

YEP! Landscape Architecture T-Shirts!

Get yours today!

Click here to shop!

July 26, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

What's all this about 08.17.11?

The world needs to know about landscape architecture, and 08.17.11 is the day it all begins.

What if, for just one day, we all decided to let everyone know what the heck landscape architects do. That we create the very places used to live, work and play. That we connect cities. That we create experience. That landscape architecture is your environment, designed.

08.17.11 is that day. It’s the day the profession reintroduces itself to public. It’s the day where, for only your time spent during lunch, you’ll join the beginning of a new movement – a movement to step out of the Understory and tell your story to the world.

Details will arrive soon. But until then, share the movement with friends, coworkers and classmates. The public awaits.

Check out 08.17.11 on Facebook!

Check out a map of nationwide 08.17.11 Events!

Get your "Landscape Architecture: Your Environment. Designed." T-Shirt!

July 19, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

introducing...

LANDbytes

Launching July 2011, LANDbytes is ASLA Oregon Chapter's premier e-publication showcasing articles, briefs, reviews, spotlights and more!  Featured in this month's launch:

July 2011	Surviving the Modern Economy - Oregon Style - By Rebecca Wahlstrom
	New Gorge Overlook Opens - By Ben Johnson

August 2011	Coming soon...

Interested in contributing to LANDbytes? Inquire now and help us gain momentum in an effort to spread awareness for the profession and increase membership values! Have you been searching for a medium to showcase a thought, idea or fresh approach? Are you interested in providing a Member Spotlight or a review of that new book on your shelf? Perhaps you're a guru of current trends in the profession? Do you have an analog or digital technique, tutorial or secret you're willing to share with your peers? Are you a student or emerging professional looking for an opportunity to get involved with your local chapter? Get in touch today!

July 19, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

Public Awareness Events Map

via Michael Cowden, ASLA Nationals Public Relations and Communications Coordinator

Keeping the ball rolling with 08.17.11 > check out this Google Map of Nationwide Public Awareness Events!

July 19, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

Designing for Sustainability in a Growing Environment

via Robin Gyorgyfalvy, ASLA

A ribbon-cutting event that took place on June 28, 2011 at the newly-minted Kansas Avenue Learning Garden was one of many steps being taken to make sustainability a part of daily life in central Oregon. Exactly one year ago, a design charrette led by ASLA High Desert Chapter’s Chelsea Schneider and Brian Caldwell, set out to transform a contaminated vacant lot that was formerly an old drycleaning site into a vibrant and interactive living classroom and learning garden. This challenging site is adjacent to The Environmental Center and within walking distance to the Boys & Girls Club and Amity Creek Elementary School. This unique project for teaching sustainability in an outdoor classroom was made possible through a partnership that was created between an environmental center, educators, and local landscape architects.

The main concept for the Learning Garden is to create a place where children can witness the growth of the seeds they plant and learn how gardens require care, hard work, and patience. Contact with the outdoors and making discoveries with weekly observations is a hands-on way to learn more about how communities and the environment can be sustained through growing your own food. Denise Rowcroft, sustainability educator for The Environmental Center says “It’s important that kids participate in building the garden so that they feel like they have ownership of it. We’re trying to get them involved in all aspects of the garden, from building fences, to showing them where food comes from – to teaching them about the health of the environment.”

The design charrette began with understanding the constraints of the site, its history, and ownership. Amber Hudspeth, an environmental professional explained the pollutants and a decision was made to cap contaminants on site and to build up the garden beds. Educators were an integral part of the charrette describing what elements and features were needed to form a learning landscape to best teach in an outdoor setting. The Environmental Center needed to have this place convey its mission to “embed sustainability into daily life in central Oregon.” A wish list was composed for what would be desirable on the site, opportunities were discussed for the outdoor rooms and the different amenities in each room, and priorities were determined for phasing.

Chelsea Schneider, ASLA of WH Pacific in Bend developed conceptual images for the group to develop further. Chelsea says “With a personal interest in environmental education, it is really important for me to see that learning landscapes become a reality through a community process such as this one.” The results are stunning with volunteers providing their energy and talent, their labor, donations, and materials for construction and planting. Incredible highlights of this project are the garden art mural paintings created by the Boys & Girls Club that decorate garden boxes lining the neighborhood street and the growing plants that were started as seedlings in the Amity Elementary School classrooms. These “pick me beds” are free for the community to harvest, a great way to encourage community interaction and involvement in central Oregon at the Kansas Avenue Learning Garden located at 16 NW Kansas Avenue in Bend, Oregon.

Pictured: Chelsea Schneider, ASLA and the Garden Box Mural Paintings

June 16, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

June 2011 Newswire

 

June 2011

Upcoming Chapter Events 09.09 | Willamette Valley Section Gopher Green Golf Tournament (Registration is Open!) 10.01 | 2011 Design Awards (Submissions Due August 5th, 2011) Additional Opportunities 06.17 | Walk Around Portland Event with Dan Burden 07.22 | Berkeley, CA LARE Prep Course: July 22-24 08.11 | ISA Soils & Trees Workshops: August 11th & August 17th Announcements Emerging Professionals 101 Series Recap Landscape Fusion Symposium + Design Charette Recap Dangerous by Design 2011 Report Released! ASLA Membership Qualifications Discussion May 2011 Trustee's Report New Job Posting: PP&R Capital Project Manager Calling all Authors, Columnists, Photojournalists, Bloggers, Reporters and Critics! More Information Newswire Submittal Requirements KEEPING YOURSELF CURRENT Please help us keep our mailing list current. Send updates or corrections of your contact information to info@aslaoregon.org. Contact Us Executive Committee and other contact information is available at the Chapter Website. For mailing and other administrative inquiries about the chapter, contact: ASLA Oregon Chapter 147 SE 102nd Avenue Portland, Oregon 97216 phone: 503.227.6156 fax: 503.253.9172 info@aslaoregon.org Follow Us Oregon ASLA Facebook Page: NEW! Come LIKE us on Facebook! Oregon ASLA on Twitter Oregon ASLA Blog Event Calendar Check out the online Calendar of Events for the most up-to-date listing of opportunities!

June 16, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

Calling all Authors, Columnists, Photojournalists, Bloggers, Reporters and Critics!

• Have you been searching for a medium to showcase a thought, idea or fresh approach?
  
• Are you interested in providing a Member Spotlight or a review of that new book on your shelf?
  
• Perhaps you're a guru of current trends in the profession?
  
• Do you have an analog or digital technique, tutorial or secret you're willing to share with your peers?
  
• Are you a student or emerging professional looking for an opportunity to get involved with your local chapter?

The ASLA Oregon Chapter Communications Committee is spearheading an effort to revisit, revamp and bring back to life the publication ORegon land, an award-winning publication that has established the Oregon Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects as a leading chapter within the society! Until further funding is secured, upcoming efforts will take the form of columns, briefs, reviews and photojournalism features in upcoming Newswires, published on a monthly basis.

Act now on this exciting opportunity to contribute and circulate your creative inklings through our community of like-minded design professionals including landscape architects, architects, students and faculty members, political leaders, ASLA state chapter presidents, and other individuals related to the profession.   

Interested?
Contact Communications Chair Christopher Olin for more information.

Stay tuned and look for our launch in the July Newswire!

June 13, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

May 2011 Trustees Report

Some of the highlights from our National Office the past month are as follows:

Governance and Administration

EVP Nancy Somerville, Hon. ASLA, attended the Landscape Architecture Foundation’s (LAF) Executive Committee and Board Meeting last week. Agenda items include LAF’s scholarship programs; a new case study investigation program; Landscape Performance Series outreach events; 2010 draft financial statements; and development training.

At the Mid Year Meeting the Trustees voted to keep the requirements the same for Full Membership. The Trustees also requested the Staff Contact CLARB and begin the process for developing a Title for Licensed Landscape Architects that would be universal. The Staff will report back at the Annual Meeting in San Diego at the end of October. The Trustees also voted to update the International Membership citeria to allow them to be elected to Fellow using the same guidelines as Full members.

Government Affairs

Representatives Doris Matsui (D-CA) and Steven LaTourette (R-OH) recently introduced the bipartisan Safe and Complete Streets Act of 2011. Federal Government Affairs Manager Roxanne Blackwell successfully had language included in the bill that would call on the Secretary of the Department of Transportation to work with the American Society of Landscape Architects for research, technical guidance, and implementation assistance of the policy. ASLA advocates will ask their legislators to support the Complete Streets legislation during the upcoming ASLA Advocacy Day.

Acting Assistant Administrator Nancy Stoner of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Office of Water will address ASLA leadership on May 18. Stoner will discuss EPA’s proposed rulemaking that would encourage the use of green infrastructure to help manage our nation’s stormwater runoff and other EPA green infrastructure programs.

ASLA sent letters to congressional transportation leaders outlining ASLA’s transportation priorities. The letter calls for the inclusion of a robust Transportation Enhancements (TE) program, an enhanced Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program, the Recreational Trails program, and a national Complete Streets policy in the reauthorization of the surface transportation law. Earlier this week the ASLA Advocacy Network was activated to urge Congress to pass a fair transportation bill that invests in critical bike and pedestrian infrastructure, trails and safe complete streets. We followed up with visits to all the Senators and many representatives during our Lobby Day on May 19th before the Mid Year Meeting. I visited Senators Wyden and Merkley along with Representative Schrader’s offices and had good discussions with their key staff.

Publishing and Resource Development

EXPO and Annual Meeting sponsorship contracts now total 74 percent of the annual budget goal. Advertising contracts for Landscape Architecture Magazine (LAM) now total 77 percent of the annual budget goal.

Professional Practice

On May 5, the Urban Forestry Quarterly Roundtable met at Wetland Studies and Solutions, Inc., in Gainesville, Virginia. The theme was managing natural areas in urban/urbanizing areas to address multiple objectives.

Public Relations and Communications

Recent ASLA coverage has appeared in the Washington Post(which was syndicated to many other papers around the country), Philadelphia Inquirer, Ridgewood News, San Luis Obispo Tribune, Indianapolis Star, Charleston Gazette, Hospitality Design, Anchorage Daily News, San Diego Union Tribune, Indiana News Center, and others. Stories are in development at the Wall Street Journal, Washington City Paper, Travel + Leisure magazine, Inhabitat, About.com, Women on Green, and Playground Magazine.

Dave

May 9, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

Newswire - May 2011

May 2011
Upcoming Chapter Events 08.17 | Public Awareness Summit 2011 10.01 | Design Awards Announcements Thank You Symposium Sponsors Thank You Symposium Exhibitors GI Case Studies April 2011 Trustee's Report	Event Calendar Check out the online Calendar of Events for the most up-to-date listing of opportunities! Additional Opportunities 05.25 | Architects in Schools: Eugene 05.26 | Landscape Legacies Lecture 06.01 | Architects in Schools: Salem More Information Job Listings Newswire Submittal Requirements Keeping Yourself Current Contact Us Follow Us
Upcoming Chapter Events Public Awareness summit 2011 National and the State Chapters are partnering to accomplish some specific goals related to public awareness.  Recent survey results indicate that the biggest general public misconception about the landscape architecture profession is that landscape architects are landscapers who deal mostly with designing planting plans and installing plant materials. As stated by one survey participant, "People don’t understand the breadth, complexity and technical rigor that goes into our work." Each State Chapter has appointed a Public Relations Advocate, who will work directly with National to develop this program.  The Public Relations Advocates will meet at the Summit in July to fill in the initial framework for the program and flush out additional ideas and actions. There will be two separate messages - an internal one for ASLA members and an external one for the public (such as "Saving the Earth: Site by Site" type of ideas). The main goal of the Public Awareness Summit 2011 is to engage the public through coordinated public outreach between National and all State Chapters - this is the first time ever. A "Launch Event" is scheduled for August 17 at lunch time.  Stay tuned for more information coming soon! ASLA Oregon Chapter 2011 Design Awards Announcements APRIL 15-16, 2011 Landscape Fusion Symposium Sponsors & Exhibitors By sponsoring you provided high quality opportunities and products to the Oregon Landscape Architectural community. You also allowed companies to become involved with landscape architects and related professionals through quality, high profile programs and services. Networking with ASLA Oregon chapter members and their affiliates provides an opportunity for your company to share industry changes, product and service upgrades as well as other information that affects the current and future design and installation of significant projects. We hope to continue our partnerships with you in providing high quality opportunities and products to the Oregon Landscape Architectural community. Thank you to our ASLA Oregon 2011 Symposium Sponsors! Portland State University Facility Sponsor The Western Group AM Break Sponsor Teufel Landscape Lanyard Sponsor The Daily Journal of Commerce General Program Sponsor landscapeforms PM Break Sponsor Additional sponsorship opportunities... If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, sponsoring and event, or advertising on the website or other materials, we have a range of potential opportunities that will fit your needs: View Available Sponsorship Opportunities for 2011 Thank you to our ASLA Oregon 2011 Symposium Exhibitors! Cascade Recreation, Inc. Cold Spring Granite Company Columbia Cascade/Timber Form Harry L. Stearns, Inc. JP Stone Contractors, Inc. Northwest Playground Equipment Northwest Recreation NWR & Associates Oregon Association of Nurseries Parkforms/Wildwood Playgrounds Regional Water Providers Consortium SiteLines Park & Playground Products The Western Group GI Case Studies Thank you to those who submitted projects and case studies for review by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in preparation for its upcoming national proposed rulemaking to strengthen the stormwater management program. Thanks to your hard work, ASLA far exceeded its goal of 300 cases, and submitted 459 projects. ASLA appreciates the membership’s continued efforts in promoting green infrastructure practices in communities across the country and for demonstrating that landscape architects have been, and will continue to be, national leaders on green infrastructure and stormwater management. Thank you. Roxanne Blackwell, Esq. Federal Government Affairs Manager American Society of Landscape Architects 636 Eye Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202-216-2334 rblackwell@asla.org April 2011 Trustees Report Some of the highlights from our National Office the past month are as follows: Governance and Administration ASLA is the recipient of the District of Columbia Department of the Environment Partner of the Year! This award is given to an organization that promotes environmental practices on behalf of the District of Columbia and its residents. The award will be conferred by D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray on April 20. ASLA participated in today’s Architect of the Capitol-U.S. Senate’s Spring Environmental and Energy Showcase. This event, held annually in a Capitol Hill Senate office building, focuses on environmental and energy conservation awareness. Special Assistant Swann and Professional Practice Networks Coordinator Kasha Helget provided handouts on the green roof and the Sustainable Sites Initiativeâ„¢ (SITESâ„¢), presented a PowerPoint to promote the green roof, and showed off the website animations that demonstrate the benefits of landscape architecture. Government Affairs We Did It! Thanks to your efforts, ASLA collected 470 green infrastructure projects to submit to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. ASLA has posted a preliminary analysis of the projects and, in the coming months, ASLA will share these individual projects with our members and the public on the ASLA website. EPA’s Office of Water has already begun to review the projects and analyze the associated data. Upon reviewing ASLA’s submitted projects, along with data and information from other stakeholders, EPA will issue a proposed rule in September 2011 and is expected to issue a final rule in December 2011. For more information, ASLA has created an issue brief on the proposed rulemaking. ASLA sent a letter to Senators John Kerry (MA), Tom Udall (NM), and Bill Nelson (FL) thanking them for introducing S. Res. 126, a resolution recognizing UNESCO’s World Heritage Convention and celebrating the 2011 International Day for Monuments and Sites. This celebration recognizes the important natural and cultural contributions of sites. Publishing and Resource Development The link to the April free digital issue was sent to more than 40,000 contacts, posted on ASLA’s social networking sites, and “tweeted” on the Twitter accounts. Visits to the online edition are approaching 20,000. Page views total 213,939 and the average time spent viewing each page is three minutes. Professional Practice The Sustainable Urban Forest Coalition is holding its annual meeting April 12 – 13 in Washington, DC. Federal government affairs and professional practice staff are participating and representing ASLA. Public Relations and Communications ASLA’s Green Roof Experience subsite on asla.org is a finalist for the Webby Awards, the most prestigious award in the world for all things Internet. While just being a finalist is a huge accomplishment, voting is underway for the People’s Choice Webby Award. Sign up and vote for ASLA in the Associations category, using either Facebook, Twitter, or email. ASLA’s YouTube Channel has surpassed 100,000 total views, making it one of the most popular within the entire design and construction industry. View and share the videos at www.youtube.com/landscapearchitects. Additional Opportunities Architects in Schools: Eugene Exhibits Wednesday, May 25 4:30-6:30pm Eugene Arts & Technology Academy, 1650 West 22nd in Gym 3 Landscape Legacies Lecture - Don't Miss Out!  Only One Lecture Left in Series. Architects in Schools: Salem Exhibits First Wednesday, June 1 5:00-7:30pm Where the Sidewalk Begins, 233 Commercial St. NE More Information Job Listings Landscape architecture firms can reach landscape architects across Oregon with an advertisement in NewsWire or on our website. Details click here. Landscape Designer/Architect BergerABAM is seeking an experienced professional to support ongoing design and production within our landscape architecture and urban design team. This person will be located in the BergerABAM office in Vancouver, Washington and support existing Pacific Northwest projects. The ideal candidate will have 5 to 8 years of professional experience with strong design, production, and communication skills. This candidate will have excellent design and CAD production abilities, including construction drawings, details, and graphics. Candidates should have a basic knowledge of urban design, Northwest landscape plants, low impact development (LID), and LEED. The duties of this position include: • Working under the direction of senior staff to assist in the master planning, design, and development of open space, streetscape, and public facility projects. • Providing AutoCAD design and production support during concept and schematic design, design development, and construction document phases. • Providing drafting and graphic support for the BergerABAM engineering, public involvement, natural resource, and planning teams as required. • Other duties as required. Requirements • Bachelor’s or master’s degree in landscape architecture from an accredited program • Minimum 5 to 8 years of professional experience • Proficiency in AutoCAD and ability to work in fast-paced, deadline-driven work environment • Technical knowledge and experience preparing landscape construction documents for planting, irrigation, and hardscape using the principles of sustainable stormwater solutions/LID • ArcGIS, Adobe Creative Suite, and SketchUp knowledge a plus • Strong written, graphic, and verbal communication skills • Highly organized, detail-oriented, self-directed, and capable of working collaboratively with multi-discipline teams • State registration as a landscape architect and/or LEED accreditation preferred • Digital portfolio in .pdf format to accompany cover letter and resume Position location: Vancouver, Washington Position closes: 13 May 2011 Job #11-LA-02 Newswire Submittal Requirements NewsWire is a publication of the Oregon Chapter ASLA. NewsWire is published at the beginning of each month for annoucing information for the following month. All ads and information must be received by noon of the previous Friday for inclusion Please send all submissions questions and comments to Dana Baisden. Keeping Yourself Current Please help us keep our mailing list current. Send updates or corrections of your contact information to info@aslaoregon.org. Contact Us Executive Committee and other contact information is available at the Chapter Website For mailing and other administrative inquiries about the chapter, contact: ASLA Oregon Chapter 147 SE 102nd Avenue Portland, Oregon 97216 phone: 503.227.6156 fax: 503.253.9172 info@aslaoregon.org Follow Us Oregon ASLA Facebook Page Oregon ASLA Emerging Professionals Facebook Page Oregon ASLA on Twitter Oregon ASLA Blog

April 5, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

April is National Landscape Architecture Month!

Celebrate National Architecture Month!

• Learn more about NLAM
• Check out hundreds of activities nationwide
  
  Free Issue of Landscape Architecture Magazine!
  

• In honor of NLAM the April issue is available for free
• Check it out online! 

March 10, 2011 Edit

in Advocacy

Green Infrastructure + Landscape Architects = Green Jobs?

Via ASLA Advocacy Network:

Landscape Architects Own Water.
Now Is the Time to Prove It!

Dear Colleagues,

Landscape architects are on the design front lines using green infrastructure technologies to address stormwater management issues in communities everywhere. Now it’s time to share your story. It was said recently that, “landscape architects own water”, now it’s time to step up and prove it. Submit your case studies today to ensure that landscape architects will continue to “own water” tomorrow.

EPA is seeking at least 300 of your green infrastructure/low impact development case studies to demonstrate the capacity and expertise on the ground to implement a new national stormwater management rule. To date we are well short of this goal.

The March 31st deadline is fast-approaching. Please take the time to help provide this critical data. There are powerful groups mobilizing to ensure this rule is either defeated or watered down. EPA is looking to landscape architects to prove that green infrastructure technologies are efficient and cost effective. Help provide the data and rationale for moving the country’s stormwater management infrastructure into the 21st Century.

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR CASE STUDY.

Thank you for your efforts to help your communities and build the profession!

Sincerely,

Jonathan Mueller, FASLA
President, American Society of Landscape Architects

For more on ASLA Advocacy
asla.org/advocacy

November 5, 2010 Edit

in Advocacy

National CLARB Survey Is Underway

Please help defend and define the licensed practice of landscape architecture by participating in the task analysis validation survey.  Every five to seven years the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB) conducts a Task Analysis of the practice of landscape architecture to ensure that the Landscape Architectural Registration Exam (L.A.R.E.) accurately reflects the knowledge and skills required to practice as a licensed professional. Task Analysis results are also used at the state level to help define, support and defend critical aspects of the licensed profession of landscape architecture.  This year's revision expands the core competencies to include concepts of sustainability, health and public well-being. The survey asks you to identify and rank tasks, knowledge and skills affecting public health, safety and welfare and critical to professional performance.

Your input is vital to this process, so please watch your mailboxes for the Task Analysis survey invitation. To capture the diversity of the profession, CLARB is sending the survey to a representative sample of landscape architects and those pursuing licensure across the U.S. and Canada.

Why should I participate?

Another important aspect of the Task Analysis is to ensure that respondents embody a wide representation of the profession. This ensures that all aspects of practice are considered and incorporated into the analysis. Just a small investment of your time to complete the Task Analysis survey will help strengthen the profession and its ability to serve and protect the public through validation of the current scope of practice.

• Support the defense of your scope of practice.
• Make your voice heard in the new standards for core competency as a licensed landscape architect.
• Ensure that all critical aspects of licensed practice are recognized (scope has increased to include concepts of sustainability, health and public well-being).

This is your opportunity to give back to the profession.

The deadline for completing the survey is November 19.

If you have questions regarding the Task Analysis, please contact CLARB at info@clarb.org 

October 22, 2010 Edit

in Advocacy

State of the Profession

An interesting document from National ASLA outlines some great information regarding the 'State of the Profession' which outlines a number of factoids on the profession worth checking out.  For instance, did you know, that as a member of ASLA, you are one of 17,236 members in 48 chapters representing all 50 states?   Also, there are 61 accredited landscape architecture programs - offering a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees. Additionally, some info on the demographics of membership:

 

Some specific information on ASLA and landscape architect, for your information:

• There are about 30,000 landscape architects in the United States (U.S. Department of Labor, 2006), including 11,092 Full or Fellow ASLA members; therefore, ASLA represents roughly 37 percent of the landscape architecture profession.
• More firms are becoming multi-disciplinary. Some 7,144 companies employ at least one active member: 6,992 in the U.S. and 152 outside of the U.S. For context, U.S. Census data for 2005 reports 6,505 landscape architecture firms.
• Approximately 15,000 landscape architects are licensed.
• Licensure is not a requirement for membership in ASLA.

Some other info, such as a general overview of the history:

"Founded in 1899, the American Society for Landscape Architects is the national professional association for landscape architects, representing 17,000 members in 48 professional chapters and 68 student chapters. The Society’s mission is to lead, to educate, and to participate in the careful stewardship, wise planning, and artful design of our cultural and natural environments. Members of the Society use the “ASLA” suffix after their names to denote membership and their commitment to the highest ethical standards of the profession."

More information, download the full two-page document here.

October 4, 2010 Edit

in Advocacy

Designing Our Future: Sustainable Landscapes

Landscape architects have been “Green Since 1899,” but now we have the Internet to show everyone just how green you are. ASLA has expanded a new online tool designed to educate the general public, government officials, clients, and the media about the work of landscape architects and the social, economic and environmental benefits of sustainable design. Called “Designing Our Future: Sustainable Landscapes,” this interactive learning tool uses 20 case studies that include image slide shows, descriptions, project facts, and downloadable one-page briefs to help answer the question, “What do landscape architects do?”

The site reflects more than a year’s work of research and writing, partially supported with a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. Explore the case studies below, check out all the resources at www.asla.org/sustainablelandscapes, and use these examples to help tell the profession’s story.

• The High Line Park (New York City) 
• Nueva School (Hillsborough, California) 
• The Red Ribbon, Tang He River Park (Qinghuangdao City, Hebei Province, China)
• Underwood Sonoran Family Landscape Laboratory (Tucson, Arizona)
• Washington Mutual Center Green Roof (Seattle) 
• Kresge Foundation Headquarters (Troy, Michigan)
• The Crack Garden (San Francisco) 
• HtO Park (Toronto, Ontario, Canada) 
• Viet Village Urban Farm (New Orleans) 
• Transformative Water (Pitkin County, Colorado) 
• Mount Tabor Middle School Rain Garden (Portland, Oregon) 
• Transit Revitalization Investment District (TRID) Master Plan (Philadelphia)
• From Brownfield to Greenfield (Wellesley, Massachusetts) 
• Bryant Park (New York City) 
• Greensburg Sustainable Master Plan (Greensburg, Kansas) 
• Rooftop Haven for Urban Agriculture (Chicago) 
• NE Siskiyou Green Street (Portland, Oregon) 
• Pacific Cannery Lofts (Oakland, California) 
• High Point (Seattle) 
• Park 20/20: A Cradle to Cradle-inspired Master Plan 

More information: Terence Poltrack Director, Public Relations and Communications American Society of Landscape Architects 636 Eye St., NW Washington, DC 20001 202.216.7852 tpoltrack@asla.org www.asla.org

October 1, 2010 Edit

in Advocacy

ASLA Headlines Congressional Hearing on the Benefits of Green Infrastructure

	Take Action!
Ask Congress to Support The Green Infrastructure for Clean Water Act
David Yocca, FASLA, represented the American Society of Landscape Architects in testifying before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Water and the Environment Subcommittee for a hearing entitled “Impact of Green Infrastructure and Low Impact Development on the Nation’s Water Quality, Economy, and Communities.” The hearing featured Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz, Hon. ASLA, Mr. Yocca, Mayor Adam Ortiz of Edmonston, Maryland, Tim Richards for the National Association for Flood and Stormwater Management Agencies, Bruce Boncke representing the National Association of Home Builders, Drew Becher, Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, and Howard Neukrug, Deputy Commissioner of the Philadelphia Water Department. Yocca’s testimony focused on his landscape architecture projects and the multiple benefits that communities reap from utilizing green infrastructure approaches , “Integrated green infrastructure strategies combine leading-edge, living technology with local design, craft, and skill to restore our neighborhoods and cities, to be healthier, more beautiful, and ultimately more economically and ecologically sustainable over time.” Now it’s your turn to tell your stories from your communities. Click on TAKE ACTION above, and take 30 seconds to ask your legislators to support HR 4202/S 3561, which would provide localities the tools they need to implement a green infrastructure agenda.  If you have time please take a moment to let your member of Congress know how green infrastructure has provided multiple benefits in your community. Thank you, Roxanne Blackwell Federal Government Affairs Manager

March 17, 2010 Edit

in Advocacy

Advocacy: Green Infrastructure Bill

A new update from the National ASLA Advocacy Network of interest to landscape architects in Oregon.  Learn more about ASLA advocacy and take action on this bill here.

Landmark Green Infrastructure for Water Management legislation Introduced

Dear Advocates: ASLA has been working to raise awareness of the benefits in utilizing green infrastructure to help manage our nation's water issues. Hearing our message, landmark legislation has been introduced in Congress that would provide assistance to communities that want to use landscape architecture techniques to help deal with their stormwater and other water quality issues. H.R. 4202, the Green Infrastructure for Clean Water Act would:

• invest in community-based green infrastructure projects that address water issues
• establish a green infrastructure program within the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to promote the use of green infrastructure and provide technical assistance to states, local governments and the private sector
• establish up to five Centers for Excellence for Green Infrastructure which would conduct research, develop recommendations, and provide training and technical assistance for implementing green infrastructure best management practices.

Today, stormwater runoff is a serious threat to the nation's waterways and public health, costing Americans hundreds of millions of dollars each year in increased drinking water treatment costs. Fortunately, Congress is recognizing that green infrastructure provides an effective, cost-efficient and environmentally sound approach to managing stormwater and reducing combined sewer overflow pollution. Simply click TAKE ACTION and use the provided templates to urge your legislators to support this legislation. If possible, please personalize your letter with examples of water projects that you or your colleagues have worked on. Contact your legislators today and urge them to support this critical legislation that will provide important opportunities for landscape architects! Thank you! Roxanne Blackwell Manager, Federal Affairs