July 26, 2011 Edit
YEP! Landscape Architecture T-Shirts!
Get yours today!
Articles from July 2011, about Announcements
July 26, 2011 Edit
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
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? |
July 19, 2011 Edit
CLARB Announces LARE Changes for Late 2012
via LAND E-NEWS from ASLA:
The Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB) has announced changes to the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE). The changes expected to take effect in late 2012 result from the recent task analysis research, advancements in testing technology, and evolution of the marketplace. The changes to the exam will include the following:
- Minor content changes will be consistent with current landscape architectural practice.
- The content will be presented through four rather than five sections to better align with current practice, but will not reduce the content currently tested.
- All sections will be delivered entirely by computer. CLARB’s exam development committees are currently working on creating new computerized problems for the content currently tested in the graphic exams (Sections C and E) and Section D using a mix of multipleâ€choice questions and advanced item types. CLARB will not use CAD software; rather the candidate will interact with onâ€screen graphics.
CLARB encourages candidates now in the exam process to complete all sections of the current exam by the June 2012 administration to ensure that they receive credit for sections they have passed. The LARE Transition Chart identifies the ways that the existing exam sections will transition to the new exam. CLARB staff is ready to assist candidates through the transition process and to help them develop a plan for completing the exams and obtaining initial licensure prior to the transition.
Prospective licensees are encouraged to begin the exam process as soon as possible as there is ample time to complete all sections prior to transitioning to the new exam in late 2012. Completing all sections by June 2012 will also result in savings to the candidate, because the per-section cost of the new exam will increase as total costs are spread across four sections instead of five.
CLARB has developed a website to provide candidates with information to assist them in completing the current exam and to better understand the process of transition to the new exam. Candidates will find resources including a set of frequently asked questions, the transition chart, and an administration timeline for the current and new exams.
ASLA and CLARB are working together to ensure candidates have access to timely and relevant information regarding the exam and licensure process. The ASLA LARE Prep webpage will provide updated information throughout this transition, including links to the CLARB resources.
For additional information on the LARE, please contact CLARB at 571-432-0332 or visit their website at www.clarb.org.
July 19, 2011 Edit
Opportunities for ASLA Committee Service
Over the next several weeks, President-Elect Susan Hatchell, FASLA, will be considering appointments for committee service during her term as ASLA president (November 3, 2011–October 1, 2012). To volunteer for service on one or more of the committees listed below, please contact Mary Hanson by Friday, August 12, 2011, indicating the group(s) of interest to you. A few brief comments on your interests and experience would be helpful as well, but professional commitment and the desire to contribute through ASLA committee service is all that is required.
ASLA committees support Board of Trustees-approved programmatic objectives by: (1) performing specific functions, e.g., the Professional Practice Committee is charged with reviewing and providing input on ASLA professional products, programs, and services; or (2) providing member expertise and input on issues and programs, e.g., the Government Affairs Advisory Committee provides member input on issues that affect the profession and helps determine ASLA’s legislative priorities.
Committee chairs direct the activities of the group in coordination with staff and in accordance with the board-approved Annual Operating Plan and the committee charge. Staff are responsible for coordinating committee activities, including committee communications, and work with the chairs to set agendas. The frequency of committee conference calls, meetings, and correspondence depends on the nature of the work. The ASLA national officers serve as Executive Committee liaisons and are available to assist chairs and committees as needed. Terms range from one to three years and begin and end when the president assumes office at the conclusion of the annual meeting.
Annual Meeting Education Advisory Committee
The committee makes recommendations to staff for invited continuing education sessions, and reviews and evaluates submissions to the annual meeting call for presentations. Terms are for three years and are staggered to maintain continuity. The committee has one meeting, usually in Washington, D.C., late in the year, and meets by conference call as needed.
Archives and Collections Committee
The Archives and Collections Committee provides member input and works with staff on maintenance of and access to the Society's official records and archives. Terms are for one year and members are often reappointed to maintain project continuity. The committee corresponds via email and meets monthly via conference call and at the annual meeting.
Audit Committee
The committee oversees the Society’s annual audit and provides independent oversight of its finances, internal control procedures, and accounting, reporting, and compliance practices. Members are limited to chapter trustees, members of the Finance and Investments Committee, and one financial expert who may or may not be an ASLA member. Terms are for two years and staggered and outgoing members are not eligible for reappointment for at least three years. The committee meets at midyear, at the annual meeting, and via conference call as required.
Committee on Education (COE)
The Committee on Education advises the Board of Trustees on issues relating to education policy, accreditation, program support, enrollments, and employment trends. Appointments are for two years and staggered to provide continuity. COE meets during the ASLA Annual Meeting and monthly by conference call.
Constitution and Bylaws Committee
The committee maintains and interprets the ASLA Constitution and Bylaws and Administrative Policies, advises the Board of Trustees on matters of governance and policy, and assists sponsors of proposed amendments. Terms are for three years and are staggered to maintain continuity. The committee corresponds via email and meets via conference call as frequently as business demands.
Emerging Professionals Committee
The committee provides member review and input on Student, Student Affiliate, and Associate Member programs and services; promotion of the benefits of ASLA membership; and communication with and among all emerging professionals, ASLA chapters, and student chapters. Terms are for one year, and the committee meets at least quarterly by conference call and at the annual meeting.
Ethics Committee
Members must be individuals who are extremely thorough and discreet in their committee work. The committee receives and processes complaints, recommends code amendments to the Board of Trustees, and educates members about ethics issues. Appointments are for three years and staggered to ensure continuity. The committee corresponds via email, and meets via conference call as often as needed and during the annual meeting.
Finance and Investments Committee
The Finance and Investments Committee advises the Board of Trustees on matters concerning ASLA's financial management. Members must be skilled in business practices and informed about ASLA's financial status and condition. Terms are for three years and staggered to provide continuity. The committee meets monthly by conference call and at the annual meeting.
Government Affairs Advisory Committee
The committee provides member review and input on issues that affect the profession and helps determine ASLA's federal legislative priorities. Terms are for two years and staggered for continuity. The committee corresponds via email, and meets monthly via conference call and at the annual meeting.
Honors and Awards Advisory Committee
The committee recommends the slate of jurors for the professional and student awards programs and reviews and makes recommendations for updating or altering, when necessary, all of ASLA's awards and honors programs. Terms are for two years and staggered to provide continuity. The committee meets via conference call as needed. During their term of service, members of the Honors and Awards Advisory Committee and their firms/organizations/agencies may not be considered for the medal awards, Firm Award, or Community Service Award.
Landscape Architecture Magazine (LAM) Editorial Advisory Committee
Committee members provide the editor with ongoing intelligence from landscape architecture practice and education to help maximize the magazine’s editorial relevance to the profession. Members serve two-year terms that are staggered to maintain continuity. The committee meets monthly by conference call and during the annual meeting.
Leadership Development Committee
Committee members develop, implement, and monitor plans to identify potential and emerging leaders with attention to diversity of practice type, gender, and ethnicity; and develop, implement, and monitor plans to encourage participation and guide development through the leadership ladder of ASLA. Appointments are for one year and the committee meets via conference call three to four times a year.
Licensure Committee
The Licensure Committee provides member review and input on current and developing licensure advocacy materials and national and chapter outreach efforts. Terms are for two years and staggered for continuity. The committee corresponds via email, and meets monthly via conference call and at the annual meeting.
Licensure LARE (Landscape Architecture Registration Examination) Prep Subcommittee
The LARE Prep Subcommittee develops resources and materials in support of those preparing to take the licensure exam and assists ASLA chapters in promoting the benefits of licensure, offering LARE review workshops, and otherwise mentoring exam candidates. Appointments are for one year. The subcommittee corresponds by email, and meets monthly via conference call and at the annual meeting.
Member Services Committee
Committee members advise the staff and leadership on member recruitment and retention efforts; new programs and services for ASLA members and chapters; and professional membership qualifications, admission procedures, and privileges. Appointments are for one year, and the committee meets at least quarterly by conference call and during the annual meeting.
Policy Committee
The Policy Committee formulates ASLA policy on matters of professional interest and concern and regularly reviews and updates ASLA public policy statements. Terms are for two years and staggered to maintain continuity. The committee meets by conference call as frequently as business demands and at the annual meeting. There is a significant amount of work conducted via Internet research and email correspondence.
Professional Practice Committee (PPC)
The committee provides member review and input on specific practice needs and ASLA products, programs, and services. Appointments are for one year. PPC subcommittees include Specifications Review; Business Owners Support, including standard form contract development; Construction Administration; Professional Practice Academics; and Building Information Modeling. The subgroups conduct a significant amount of work via email and by conference call. The full committee meets quarterly by conference call and at the annual meeting.
Public Practice Advisory Committee
Committee members advise leadership and staff on strategies and programs to increase public practitioners’ interest and participation in ASLA and facilitate communication among all practitioners in the public sector. Appointments are for one year, and the committee meets monthly by conference call and during the annual meeting.
Public Relations and Communications Advisory Committee
The committee advises staff on development, implementation, and evaluation of media relations strategies, publicity materials, and outreach activities; helps identify members with expertise in various issue and practice areas to represent the profession to the media; and provides member review and input on ASLA web resources and electronic communications. Terms are for one year, and the committee meets at least quarterly by conference call and during the annual meeting.
July 19, 2011 Edit
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
Job Posting
Landscape Architect or Designer @
Lango Hansen Landscape Architects PC
July 19, 2011 Edit
June 2011 Trustee Report
June 2011 Trustee’s Report via Dave Walters, ASLA Oregon Chapter:
Some of the highlights from our National Office the past month are as follows:
Governance and Administration
President Jonathan Mueller, FASLA, President-Elect Susan Hatchell, FASLA, and EVP Nancy Somerville, Hon. ASLA, participated with other associated organizations in the Presidents’ Council meeting. The meeting included discussion of challenges posed by the economy, growth of the profession and landscape architecture programs, the Landscape Architecture Continuing Education System, and public awareness.
ASLA staff members took a summer field trip yesterday to visit the new green roof atop the Dirksen Senate Office Building. The green roof replaces a rarely used tennis court and has a design of the Capitol’s dome and the Washington Monument that can be used as a path to explore the roof. Discussions are underway to have a green wall designed by a landscape architect, which is scheduled for next spring.
Government Affairs
This month the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced $67 million of funding for the Sustainable Community Regional Planning Grant program in 2011. The second round of regional planning grants will soon be made available through a Notice of Funding Availability.
The “June Advocacy Jamboree†has been a huge success! In one week, over 850 messages were sent promoting the recently re-introduced Green Infrastructure for Clean Water Act. In 2011 you have sent over 7,000 messages, 1500 messages ahead of our pace at this point last year. Keep up the good work!
The United States Department of the Interior (DOI) recently held a briefing regarding the creation of the Federal Interagency Council on Outdoor Recreation (FICOR). As part of President Obama’s America’s Great Outdoors Initiative, the Department of the Interior, Department of Agriculture, Army Corps of Engineers and Department of Commerce signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish the FICOR to coordinate and promote outdoor recreation opportunities on public lands. ASLA remains committed to assisting DOI and other federal partners in carrying out the goals of the America’s Great Outdoors Initiative.
Publishing and Resource Development
The student awards jury convened June 10-12 to consider 457 submissions, the largest number in the history of the program. The previous record was 271 in 2010. The number of undergraduate submissions doubled over last year at 172. The jury selected 39 award winners.
Professional Practice
As of June 17, ASLA is offering readers of the LATIS (Landscape Architecture Technical Information Series) reports who submit self-test exams an opportunity to evaluate the LATIS reports. Each LATIS evaluation form is available through a link to Survey Monkey from the associated self-test. The evaluation forms are voluntary and comply with LA CES (Landscape Architecture Continuing Education System) guidelines. The information from the evaluations will help ensure clarity and value of each LATIS report to the reader.
Public Relations and Communications
The Infrastructure for All sustainable animation was posted, generating more than 3,200 views in 10 days. The animation has already received coverage in Fast Company, Grist, and others.
Other recent coverage of ASLA appeared in the Commercial Appeal, eBuild, and Lawn & Landscape. The popular green site Inhabitat.com ran an extensive feature on the Sustainable Sites Initiative. Inhabitat reaches 1.5 million readers each month. Additional ASLA coverage appeared in Garden Center magazine and Lawn & Landscape. Planet Forward and Architype Review are working on stories about the profession.
DW
July 19, 2011 Edit
Reminder: WVS Gopher Golf Tourney
The Willamette Valley Section of the Oregon Chapter of ASLA cordially invites you to participate in our first Annual Gopher Green Golf Tournament. Please join us for an afternoon of golf in memory of Brian McCarthy. The tournament will be held at Diamond Woods Golf Course (96040 Territorial Highway. Monroe. www.diamondwoods.com) on Friday, September 9. Shotgun start at 1 pm. Dinner to follow. 50% of the proceeds will be donated to the Brian McCarthy Memorial Plaque at the University of Oregon.
July 19, 2011 Edit
OSLAB Newsletter (June 2011)
POTENTIAL CHANGES TO THE RULE FOR REGISTRATION BY RECIPROCITY:
Board staff, the Licensure Review Committee, and the full Board have recently been struggling with the existing rule for registration by reciprocity and have determined there is a need to develop rule revisions. The Board solicits your input about this issue. For reference, the reciprocity requirements are contained in OAR 804 Division 22.
The current reciprocity rule applies the same criteria to a reciprocity request as are applied to applications for initial registration. The idea behind the rule is not bad – to set uniform standards for registration in Oregon. Certainly the Board does need to ensure sufficient education, passage of professional examinations, and demonstrated proficiency in the field. The primary problem with the rule is the requirement for documenting work experience under the supervision of a registered landscape architect (RLA).
The reciprocity rule essentially treats all reciprocity applicants, regardless of years of experience as RLAs in other states, as if they are at the beginning of their careers. Some applicants for reciprocity gained the required work experience many years ago. The companies or supervisors they worked for may not be available to sign-off on work verification forms. This makes documentation of supervised work experience difficult or sometimes even impossible for an applicant to obtain. The current rule does not allow the Board to consider how long the applicant has been successfully working as a RLA in another state as an alternative to supervised work experience.
The Board has asked the Administrative Rules Committee to work with the Licensure Review Committee and staff to consider alternatives to the current rule. Members of the Administrative Rules Committee will be called into service over the summer to early fall to help shape rule revisions. All are encouraged to share ideas and concerns with the reciprocity rule by sending comments by e-mail to oslab.info@state.or.us or by US mail to the Board office at 707 13th St. SE, Salem, OR 97301. The Board will be briefed at upcoming meetings in August and November of this year on input received via the Administrative Rules Committee or directly from registrants and other interested parties
July 19, 2011 Edit
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.â€
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