James M. Nelson Landscape and Urbanism Portfolio 2020 by James MacDonald-Nelson

JAMES M. NELSON Landscape & Urban Designer Professional Portfolio

Cover Photo Water is Life Tidal Ecology on the Pacific Coast, Vancouver Island, Canada 35mm film photograph Taken by Author 2018

JAMES MACDONALD-NELSON Date of Birth January 20, 1990 Citizenships Canadian and British Phone number +31 61 000 1454 Email jmacdonaldnelson22@gmail.com

Technical Skills

Mapping and Analysis - QGIS Drafting and Design - AutoCAD, Rhino, SketchUp Graphics- Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop Report Preparation - Adobe InDesign

Languages

English (Native speaker) French (Fluent working knowledge)

Professional Experience 2019-2020

TU Delft, Department of Urbanism, English Language Editor | The Netherlands •

2018 - 2019

TU Delft, Department of Urbanism, Publication Assistant | The Netherlands • •

2016 - 2018

Organized and created an archive of student work from the European Master’s of Urbanism (EMU) program at TU Delft Developed proposal for new publication to showcase work completed by students and graduates of the EMU

Ferris + Associates Inc., Landscape Designer | Toronto, Canada • • • • • • •

2015 - 2016

Provided editorial and proofreading services for academic journal articles, book chapters, and PhD theses for students and faculty in the Urbanism Department of TU Delft

Managed the design, delivery of drawing sets and the coordination of numerous projects in and around the Greater Toronto Area Design work included neighbourhood parks, medium to large-scale urban and suburban residential development projects, public space design for museums, and office towers Developed and presented conceptual design proposals for clients Prepared re-zoning and site plan applications, tender and construction documents Prepared cost estimations Participated in consultant meetings Conducted site visits and prepared arborist reports

Scott Torrance Landscape Architect Inc., Landscape Designer | Toronto, Canada • • •

Assisted with the design and development of several development projects in Toronto Worked on sustainability and ‘Design Excellence Guidelines’ for the station design of Toronto’s regional rail network (Metrolinx) Production of construction and detailed design drawings.

Academic Qualifications MSc European Post-Masters in Urbanism (Awarded full scholarship) Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment, TU Delft | The Netherlands Istituto Universitario di Architettura di Venezia (IUAV) | Italy 2020

2015

MLA Master of Landscape Architecture John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape & Design, University of Toronto | Canada

2012

BAH Bachelor of Arts Honours- Global Development Studies, Queen’s University | Canada

Additional Experience 2017-2018

Invited Guest Critic, Department of Landscape Architecture, University of Guelph, Canada.

2017 - 2018

Graphic & Research Assistant - Intact Centre for Climate Adaptation (ICCA) - University of Waterloo

2017 - 2018

Editorial Board Member - Ground Landscape Quarterly

Garden Steward - Garrison Creek Park - Toronto Park People

2017 2015 - 2019

Associate member - Ontario Association of Landscape Architects

Publications 2021 Co-Author. Brown, Matthew., Leblanc Stephane., Mantin, Andrea & Nelson, James. The Power of Local: Celebrating the Unique in East Coast Landscapes. Innate Terrain: Theory in Contemporary Canadian Landscape Architecture (Forthcoming 2021 -currently in publishing) 2019

Author. Nelson, James. The True North Strong and Free’: The Consequences of Indifference and the Romanticization of Canada’s Northern Frontier. Testing Ground Magazine, Issue 2. Greenwich University, London, UK (2019)

2018

Co-Author. Nelson, James., Strang, Katie. Governance & Sovereignty in Ontario’s North. Ground Landscape Architect Quarterly Magazine. The Ontario Association of Landscape Architects. Issue 40 (Winter 2018)

2017

Co-Author. Nelson, James., Strang, Katie. Disasters that Shape Us. Ground Landscape Architect Quarterly Magazine. The Ontario Association of Landscape Architects. Issue 39 (Autumn2017)

2017

Author. Nelson, James. Letter from...Europe. Ground Landscape Architect Quarterly Magazine. The Ontario Association of Landscape Architects. Issue 37 (Spring 2017)

This portfolio of creative projects comprises a body of work that has developed from 8 years of academic research, design, and professional working experience in the fields of landcape architecture and urbanism. The selected work is representative of my passion and drive to employ both spatially-driven research and design as tools to develop solutions for some of the most pressing issues facing humanity today. If humans are to mitigate further damage to our planet and adapt to the inevitable challenges ahead, change must happen now. I believe it is our responsibility as urbanists and designers to grasp this opportunity and work alongside anyone who understands the urgency and necessity of this task.

CONTENTS

Planning for Uncertainty

Adaptation Strategies for Agricultural Self-Reliance in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, Canada | 2020

[Lea]d Me to the River

Cultivating Resilience

4 5

Ecological and Urban Adaptations For The River Lea In Tottenham Hale, London, UK | 2019

A Sustainable Partnership Between Tourism and Agriculture in the Venetian Lagoon | 2019

Nxt City Design Competition

Canadian Centre For Urban Resilience, Toronto. | 2017

Open Data

Exploring Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Political, Social and Environmental Boundaries Through Open-Source Data Collection and Analysis | 2017

Planning for Uncertainty

ADAPTATION STRATEGIES FOR AGRICULTURAL SELF-RELIANCE IN THE LOWER MAINLAND OF BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA Thesis Semester TU Delft - 2020 Supervisors Birgit Hausleitner (TU Delft) Steffen Nijhuis (TU Delft) Alvise Pagnacco (IUAV) This graduation project explores the adaptive potential of the local and regional food system in Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only urbanized delta region, the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. As with all delta regions around the world, this low-lying metropolitan region will increasingly face many challenges related to flooding, ongoing urbanization, and the unpredictability of extreme natural disasters that threaten communities and food production. The Lower Mainland is one of the most agriculturally dynamic regions in Canada and is unique as a considerable amount of arable and cultivated land is integrated closely with the urban fabric of the territory. However, with decreasing selfreliance in regional food production and an over-reliance on cheap imported products, the Lower Mainland is at a crossroads when it comes to the future of its food system. The intent of the design proposal is to find ways in which to rebalance regional food cultivation by expanding how and where production takes place. Integrating agriculture tightly within communities and using it as a catalyst for new public spaces, urban development, and agri-tech innovation along a key regional corridor that will serve as the basis for the design exploration. Map (left): Digital elevation model of the Lower Mainland overlaid with Agricultural Land Reserve boundaries and selected frames for research and design

CANADA’S WEST COAST British Columbia is the most western province of Canada and home to around 5 million people, 60% of whom live in the Lower Mainland – Canada’s only urbanized delta region located between the Pacific Ocean and the Pacific Cordillera Mountain Range - specifically the Rocky Mountains. The Lower Mainland, seen at two scales below, is the most significant metropolitan region on Canada’s West Coast. It is the economic engine of British Columbia and despite its relatively small size when compared to the rest of the province, is crucial for the production, processing, and distribution of goods and services. In the map below (bottom left), the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR), is highlighted in yellow - clearly showing significant presence of arable, cultivated land across the region. What is unique is the integration between the urban and ‘rural’ landscapes in the Lower Mainland. This spatial and functional organization of the region and the way in which agriculture occupies the territory is the starting point for this thesis.

British Columbia

USA

Alberta Vancouver

Lower Mainland Lower Mainland Pacific Ocean Washington, USA

Agricultural Land Reserve

DESIGN CHALLENGE The local and regional impacts of natural disasters and the vulnerability of the territory are numerous in the Lower Mainland. The maps below demonstrate a number of these. Flooding, from the Fraser River and from the Pacific Ocean, pose an incredible threat not only to urban areas but also to agricultural land.

This is because much of the agricultural land lies below sea level and in the event of excessive rain or sudden flooding, these areas will inevitably inundate first. Contributing to this is subsidence, an effect exacerbated by increasing urbanization and the extraction of ground water for irrigation.

Flood Zone

Irrigation Wells

ALR

ALR Aquifers Flood Zone Farms

OCCUPATION

LAYERED ANALYSIS - 3x3x3

City Scale

The analysis uses the year of 1876 to begin this investigation as it marks the beginning of significant European colonization in the Lower Mainland. The year of 1949 was chosen as it marks a moment when the first comprehensive regional plan was developed for the Lower Mainland. Finally, a present-day analysis was conducted to explore how the key transformations that occurred between 1876 and 2020 are still present and relevant in the spatial structure of the territory.

Community Scale

The 3x3x3 layered analysis is used to reveal the primary spatial elements and current trends of the Lower Mainland by examining 3 layers at 3 scales over 3 times periods. In this way it is possible to uncover the most important spatial transformations that have taken place across the region and the persistent elements of these changes.

Regional Scale

TRANSFORMATIONS IN THE LOWER MAINLAND

1876

1949

2020

City Scale 1876

Community Scale

City Scale

Regional Scale

NATURE

Regional Scale

INFRASTRUCTURE

1949

2020

1876

1949

2020

2. Presence of critical infrastructure - which can be used to connect productive areas to the region. 3. Fragmentation of ecologies - where green spaces are confined and separated from agricultural areas.

AVAILABILITY OF LAND Fra se

ive r

Flood Risk Uncultivated Land

1. The availability of land - because of unused agricultural areas and an abundance of municipally-owned land that has the potential to be transformed by the local government and community groups.

Land Ownership

Considering these transformations and conducting a further analysis at a local scale reveals how the challenges at a regional scale have implications for local capacity to cultivate food and remain resilient to the effects of climate change. The main conclusions from this are:

Road Network

CHALLENGES + OPPORTUNITIES

CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE Fra se

FRAGMENTED ECOLOGIES

Fra se

ive r

Coniferous Forest Unused Agricultural Land Active Agricultural Land

ive r

DESIGN CONCEPT Conceptually, the design begins with the ideas of concentrating, dispersing, and connecting the proposed design interventions. First, concentration refers to the clustering of highly productive agricultural practices (primarily in the form of greenhouses and agro-forestry) in the existing ALR where land is currently uncultivated. Redefining the border of the ALR allows for new activities to inhabit this edge and connect more coherently to existing urban areas. Dispersal refers to the dispersion of productive activities outside of the boundaries of the ALR and into the urban fabric. Finally, connection brings these two interventions together through specified corridors that bridge them through a series of smaller community-oriented interventions and a coherent public space network.

With a regional agricultural network that shortens the food supply chain in the Lower Mainland

This approach yields a number of possible corridors. Each can serve a different function in relation to their context and relation to the wider region, but together they have the potential to form a new network of agricultural production, innovation, and community-focused food production in order to increase self-reliance through adaptation and resilience-building.

How? Increase production, processing and distribution capacity in the region

Concentrate

Redefine

Disperse

How can the region become more self-reliant?

Connect

FRASER CORRIDOR The design proposal focuses on one corridor to explore the potential to reshape this particular transect. Called the Fraser Corridor for its location along the Fraser Highway, it is located along one of the region’s original roads that connected the interior of the Rocky Mountains with the shores of the Fraser River in New Westminster. The connection is still a key route for regional travel and bisects some of the Lower Mainland’s primary urban centres and agricultural areas. What’s more, the corridor runs directly through the middle of the Serpentine Lowlands which form a part of the ALR.

To construct a proposal for the corridor, several factors from the analysis are used to specify where interventions are most suitable along the Fraser Corridor. Here is a synthesis of the primary conditions that will determine how each intervention is placed along the corridor and in which way it will interact with its context.

CORRIDOR DESIGNATION

FACTORS TO CONSIDER

Existing Commercial areas and active farms Primary Areas of intervention

The first consideration is the availability of land for productive purposes. Second, land that is municipally owned is considered as first priority for integrating smallscale productive sites and are indicated on the map in blue and, in some cases, institutional buildings located on this land are included (indicated in red).

A PRODUCTIVE CORRIDOR Based on the concept of the concentration and dispersal of agricultural activities 1. Urban agri-tech hubs connected directly with along the corridor, the design employs several key interventions. existing commercial areas. Food production is hyperlocalized through the production and direct supply to The various design strategies are integrated throughout the corridor creating a local supermarkets. network of interventions that function differently but for the common purpose of connecting people with cultivation, increasing agricultural production, and 2.The Community Food Hub (CFH) acts as an anchor adapting the territory for a resilient form of agriculture. for both farmers and community members. It is a public space for education, innovation and provides facilities to process and distribute locally grown food. 3. Greenhouse production is expanded in low-lying areas, clustered around the existing Burnaby Lake Greenhouses. Regional production potential is increased tremendously. 4. Low-impact communities (LICs) are also established along the threshold to provide alternative community living choices for people wishing to live a more sustainable lifestyle while cultivating much of their own food 5. Food forests are designated and established in existing green spaces with dense forest cover or ravine environments that are safe and publicly accessible. 6. Agro-forestry crops (the practice of combining the cultivation of trees with field crops) is placed within the sloped threshold to manage erosion but also to create a productive area 7. Community gardens are established alongside existing educational facilities, in parks, or in partnership with places of worship.

ESTABLISHING A PRODUCTIVE CENTRE CONCENTRATE PRODUCTION

DIVERSIFY ACTIVITIES The design begins by establishing a productive centre along the corridor, using existing uncultivated and underused land. This includes creating a greenhouse hub, incorporating agroforestry crops and low-impact communities throughout the centre. Agro-forestry crops occupy the gentle slopes of the river valley to create a buffer between urban areas and the greenhouse hub and is beneficial for reducing slope erosion. LIC’s are strategically places at the fringes of urban areas and incorporate directly into the agroforestry crops. Greenhouses AF Crops LIC’s

7 3 6

2 4

1 5

LIC - Moveable Tiny Homes

2 Agro-Forestry Crops 3

Logistics Point for harvesting and maintenance

4 Public Market Space 5

LIC - Modular Houses

LIC - Earthships

Greenhouse Hub with Public Realm

Existing Greenhouses

EXPANDING THE NETWORK A series of networks are identified here to connect the design proposal to the surrounding community and wider region. First, a system of water retention and infiltration is proposed to capture excess stormwater - particularly in areas where greenhouses are proposed. This offers an opportunity to mitigate damage from minor flooding and also enables the creation of aquatic habitats within the ALR. The logistics network is essential to ensuring that increased food production is accompanied with the capacity to transport food, employees, and other related services. In doing so the proposed logistics network expands from the existing grid. A public realm network is proposed to connect directly to existing communities in Surrey and Langley and provide access across the ALR while also creating central open spaces within the productive centre. Agro-forestry Crops

Uncultivated Farmland

Low-Impact Communities

ALR boundary

Water Management Network

Educational and Religious Facilities

Public Space

Commercial and Office Centres

Greenhouses

PUBLIC REALM

LOGISTICS

WATER

Infrastructural and Grid Connections

Existing Farms Residential Neighbourhoods

AGRO-FORESTRY CROPS Food Production Potential 135ha of Agro-Forestry Aprox Yield: 50 ton/ha/yr 6,750 tons of produce/year *Recommended vegetable consumption per day by the WHO/FAO is of 400 grams

It is possible to feed aproximately 40,000 people per day with this yield Horticulture crops: Eggplant Peppers Zucchini Sweet potato Squash/pumpkin Field crops: Barley Oats Wheat

GREENHOUSE HUB

Food Production Potential 82ha of Greenhouses Aprox Yield: 200 ton/ha/yr 16,400 tons of produce/year *Recommended vegetable consumption per day by the WHO/FAO is of 400 grams

It is possible to feed aproximately 97,000 people per day with this yield Food Grown: Tomatoes Strawberries Raspberries Greens (kale, lettuce, arugula etc.) Sprouts

LOW-IMPACT COMMUNITIES

Dwelling Potential Space for 65-100 tiny homes Space for 18-50 modular homes Space for 16-20 earthships Total:170 new low-impact community households

EXTEND THE CORRIDOR DISPERSE PRODUCTION

DIVERSIFY ACTIVITIES

The second portion of the design proposal focuses on the concept of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;dispersalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, where agricultural activities are introduced through several design strategies throughout the corridor in direct relation with their surroundings. This strategy is intended to create a continuous line of various cultivation techniques that, when seen in conjunction with the productive centre, form an agricultural corridor. D Design interventions are dotted throughout communities adjacent to or directly found along the corridor and mostly fall within walking or cycling distance of each other (1500m or less). The design interventions found along the corridor range in their impact on the community. Some of these act as neighbourhood anchors that have a dominant and visible presence on the corridor while others are embedded more lightly into the community

Fra s

Hig

hw ay

4 1 Community Food Hub

2 Urban Agri-Tech Hubs

3 Food Forest

4 Community Gardens

COMMUNITY FOOD HUB The key element to the Fraser Corridor is the Community Food Hub which acts as a local anchor local food production, education, innovation and community gathering. the CFH is an essential element in the development of the corridor and the larger agricultural network across the region. Proposed for unused sites 0

along the corridor, it has the potential to catalyse development and become a new centre for the community. The CFH functions as a local ecosystem providing a large outdoor public space for the community, productive space for greenhouse production and small field crops, testing labs, educational, food processing and distribution facilities. In this sense, the 1km community food hub acts as a an agricultural campus in the centre of Fleetwood, Surrey.

CFH Functional Elements Space for collaboration between farmers, researchers and citizens 7

Educational facilities for the University of the Fraser Valley

Space for crop production

5 3 Fra s

Hig

hw ay

Processing and Distribution facilities

1 2

Community Food Hub - Education and Innovation Centre Currently under development

Surrey Sport & Leisure Complex

Bonnie Schrenk Park

Greenhouses

Processing and Distribution Centre

Crop Testing Fields

Potential for greater density

COMMUNITY FOOD HUB Space for collaboration between farmers, researchers and citizens Educational facilities for the University of the Fraser Valley

Space for crop production

Processing and Distribution facilities

CORRIDOR EXPANSION The two vial steps of concentrating and dispersing agricultural activates along the Fraser Corridor are envisioned as part of a larger transformation across the region that employs all of the strategic interventions discussed at the beginning of the design challenge.

URBAN AGRI-TECH HUBS

Although not designed in detail in this thesis project, urban agro-tech hubs, food forests, and community gardens would play an important role in disseminating cultivation throughout the corridor at different scales. The agri-tech hubs would be an experiment in creating a partnership with the supermarket industry (who are not typically in the business of growing food) but could benefit in the long-term if growing some fresh produce on-site could ultimately become profitable. This could be feasible if vertical agriculture techniques were employed and if they grew high quality, high yielding plant species. Community gardens and food forests, on the other hand, would be a locally-organized activity, not requiring enormous space, but rather a stewardship and communityled program to maintain the vitality and productivity of such activities.

FOOD FORESTS AND COMMUNITY GARDENS

[Lea]d me to the River ECOLOGICAL AND URBAN ADAPTATIONS FOR THE RIVER LEA IN TOTTENHAM HALE, LONDON, UK Design Studio: Constructing Sustainable Urban Landscapes - Urban transformations promoting community building, mixed use and climate TU Delft - 2019 This design studio asked students to engage with the complex topic of urban transformation, processes, and the dynamics between social and environmental forces that are constantly influencing the urban landscape and apply it to the Lea River Valley in East London, UK, specifically to a 1.5 x 1.5km â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;pixelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in which we would conduct our research. This research and design proposal focuses on the community of Tottenham Hale in the London Borough of Haringey, along the banks of the River Lea. Situated at the confluence of urban and regional infrastructure, large green spaces ,and a dense urban tissue, these elements are also situated on the banks of the River Lea, which meanders its way through this dynamic urban landscape. Ultimately, this body of research and the following design proposal seeks to make sense of this complexity and address the main challenges facing the future of Tottenham Hale. Building an adaptive approach to these challenges is at the core of this project.

Map (left): London Metropolitan Green Belt, open spaces, waterways and urban form of London

HISTORICAL + PHYSICAL CONTEXT

1.5km

Throughout the development of London and specifically, Tottenham Hale, it is clear that the river has always been an essential part of this progress and viewed as a resource to be used and exploited. In fact, this is still the case. While environmental protections have begun the work of recognizing its ecological significance, the River Lea is still a highly managed piece of urban infrastructure, and while it is deeply connected to the history of Tottenham Hale, it is undeniably a backdrop for the community that sits on its banks. However, the river is but one element in a diverse and complex urban landscape. While there are pockets of healthy, biodiverse ecosystems within the valley, there are certainly opportunities to enhance the river and its prominence in Tottenham Hale - to shift the perception once again. As a key area for growth, Tottenham Hale is currently undergoing a transformative shift. Another change in perception that now prioritizes the river, wetlands, and the valley as an ecologically important urban resource is challenging previously held views. However, this does not change the fact that the are is under huge development pressure, faces increasing risks from river floods and despite the efforts of environmental organizations, is an area with disconnected green spaces and disproportionate concentrations of biodiversity.

CHALLENGES TO ADDRESS FLOOD RISK

Flood Zones 2 and 3

BUILDING AGE + PROPOSED URBAN FUNCTIONS

Designated Areas to be Developed

ECOLOGICAL DISCONNECTION

**Habitat Supporting Areas

Green Roof/SUDS

Multi-storey building/Lawn

Private Backgarden

Parks/Lawn/Maintained

Asphalt/Concrete

DESIGN CONCEPT In light of the research conducted throughout the studio, the proposed design strategy for Tottenham Hale takes a wider look beyond the limits of the 1.5 x1 .5km pixel. Here, the design begins with the larger catchment area of the Lee River Valley in Tottenham Hale. The concept is based on 3 main conclusions. 1. The vulnerability of flooding in Tottenham Hale 2. Pressure to develop the area 4. Urban and ecological fragmentation. The design concept begins with one simple element -the River Lea and incorporates a number of strategies related to it.

DESIGN SEQUENCE A gradient that will determine the intensity of interventions proposed for river edge and the adjacent neighbourhoods. Expand the river, dismantling Warwick Reservoir East to accommodate more space for the natural flow of the river while also creating new opportunities for socioecological integration along the river edge. Within the urban fabric a network of basins are proposed to capture runoff and create opportunities for water infiltration at the local scale.

Gradient

Expand

Capture

Create a system of green conveyance corridors within the street network in order to collect and channel water towards the basins Prioritize key employment and commercial hubs as significant areas to retain and enhance as socioeconomic anchors for Tottenham Hale. Create a robust soft-mobility network that incorporates these elements with the River Lea.

Convey

Prioritize

Network

DESIGN OPERATIONS p

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PRIORITIZE

The final operation of the design proposal seeks to transform an existing commercial centre in Tottenham Hale and improve upon the industrial employment hub at High Cross Centre. This plot of land is already slated for development and the intention is to create a pedestrian friendly, mixed-use, high density neighbourhood. The proposed mixed-use community will incorporate residential development, at- grade and multi-storey commercial space and light industrial spaces (for small-scale manufacturing, distribution services and creative companies) in order to tie the proposed mixed-use centre in with the existing function of the industrial platform.

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CONVEY Create a network of adapted streets in the neighbourhood fabric of Tottenham Hale. Here, several key streets are used to collect, retain and convey excess stormwater in order to alleviate the potential of flooding within the community by diverting water out of the storm sewers. These conveyance lines also act as green corridors where large shade trees and water tolerant planting forms a new street edge. This linear network connects to a system of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;community basinsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; where water is collected in extreme storm events. This allows for evapotranspiration and a water infiltration into the soil.

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EXPAND This is done by creating three openings in the reservoir embankments and excavating the reservoir in order to create two islands in the river corridor. The remaining embankments will form the highest point of each island and will be retained to preserve the existing mature trees. Opening the river corridor allows for the river flow to slow and meander through Tottenham Hale, improving flood resilience, providing opportunities for habitat to flourish and improving connections to the water, and enhances the overall ecology of the river corridor.

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AN ADAPTED TOTTENHAM HALE 400m

Hale village

Mixed-use community Existing + expanded industrial platform

Le a

New north-south connection between mixed-use community and markfield park Connection to walthamstow wetland trails

ve r

200

Flood zones *Housing to be replaced in proposed mixed-use community Markfield park Elevated wetland boardwalk Expanded river edge Community retention basin Adapted streets - conveyance corridors River lea wetlands Community retention basin

Expanded river edge Lee valley park

A MIXED-USE COMMUNITY

Commercial Residential r & d / office space light to medium industry

A NEW RIVER EDGE

A RESILIENT NEIGHBOURHOOD

PHASING AND ACTOR ENGAGEMENT STRATEGY A final aspect of the proposal aims to tie in the actors and networks identified in the initial research with the proposed design operations. This is done by identifying some of the key aspects that would determine how and when the proposal would take shape. Along the time axis, specific engagement processes are indicated for each design operation with an estimated construction time (contingent on funding, public support, and planning approval).

ADAPTATION AS A CATALYST FOR CHANGE

3 Cultivating Resilience

A SUSTAINABLE PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN TOURISM AND AGRICULTURE IN THE VENETIAN LAGOON (Design Studio - Istituto Universitario di Architettura di Venezia 2018-19 *Collaborative design project

In Venice, the design studio focused on the Venetian Lagoon and the ever increasing threat of sea level rise, storm surges, a diminishing healthy aquatic ecology and the livelihoods of the Venetian people who depend on the health of the lagoon. Specifically, the studio directed students to investigate the peninsula of Cavallino-Treporti where summer tourism, agriculture and a diminishing local community co-exist. With the many threats of climate change these three realities will need to adapt and transform their way of life if Cavallino-Treporti wishes to continue as a community. This proposal therefore seeks to establish an agro-park in CavallinoTreporti based on the need to improve territorial resilience against global and local pressures in order to develop a future for the municipality that is ecologically, socially, and economically sustainable. This, we argue, can be achieved through collaboration, in order to create an equilibrium between the two main forces that shape the territory: agriculture and tourism, to cultivate resilience. Map (left): regional water management network of the Venetian Lagoon, its islands, peninsulas, and plains

CAVALLINO-TREPORTI rti

Venice

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The design proposal came out of a rigorous process of research, mapping, and fieldwork conducted over a 2 month period where the challenges of safe-guarding the future of Cavallino-Treporti were identified. From this we decided it was crucial to focus on: 1. Local flood risk

Adriatic Sea

Disconnected network of canals and ditches, subsidence due to ground water extraction, combine to create a high level of risk for flooding

2. Abandoned and uncultivated land With the decline of agriculture in the peninsula the prevalence of

abandoned land is ubiquitous

3. Striking division between locals and tourists

The linear division of territorial functions, territorial manifestation of the lack of relation between locals, framers and campsite

Seasonal rotation agriculture

Seasonal campsites (closed form october to april) Seasonal buildings

Seasonal campsites (closed form october to april)

Abandoned areas

Seasonal buildings Abandoned areas

Abandonement and seasonality

Source : Geoportale - Veneto Region

GOALS 1

Mitigating flood risks by creating an adaptive water management network across the territory

Integrate a network that invites locals and tourists into the territory throughout all times of the year

Adapt a closed loop system of energy creation, food production and waste management between the tourism and agriculture sectors

DESIGN CONCEPT In order to tackle these challenges the design proposal takes a layered approach in order to reinforce and reshape of the territory. This is done by creating: 1. 2. 3.

A Landscape Shaped by Water A Productive Landscape for Agro-Tourism A Network for People and Nature.

Each layer incorporates a number of techniques to address the issues identified in our research.

1 A LANDSCAPE SHAPED BY WATER

EXISTING NETWORK AND FLOOD RISK

1. Reconnect the system where it is currently disconnected, to widen ditches and create basin allow for greater water storage and flow 2. Due to the fragility of the landscape it is not possible to create new canals, however the canals that are within abandoned land can be rejuvenated to function properly 3. Using the abandoned and underused spaces to create naturalized and technical water basins for the retention of stormwater and reuse of runoff for irrigation and aquifer recharge. These basins are represented below.

On a territorial scale, the proposed water network is connected across all parts of Cavallino-Treporti especially in areas with a higher hydraulic risk. Basins are concentrated in these areas as well and provide the ability to collect excess water and protect the territory from excessive flooding.

Areas subject to frequent and persistent flooding

Existing ditches and canals

PROPOSED NETWORK

NATURALIZED BASIN

The naturalized basin acts as a sponge for water overflow during storm events and during excessively wet periods of time throughout the year. They are designed to include a both native and non-native planting that are suited for water filtration and habitat creation. These basins appear throughout the territory as both naturalized â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;nodesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; within the water network and as places for recreation. In the neighbourhood basins, there is public space integrated into the design so as to create a destination out of this infrastructural element. In both cases, the basins incorporate a layering of planting, various basin depths and a mixture of water channels. Recreational Area Shallow basin shelf Basin Basin bottom 2m depth max.

Permeable Silty Soil Impermeable Clay Subsoil

Shallow Water Channel

TECHNICAL BASIN The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;technicalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; basin is used throughout the territory specifically in areas where there are concentrations of greenhouses. Here water is collected from hard surfaces and rooftops, stored and treated in basins that allow for the active reuse of water on site. In this case, water is still collected from aquifers for irrigation, however, the storage and treatment of rainwater makes it possible to recharge the aquifers so as to reduce subsidence and the depletion of the aquifers. In this case, aquatic planting provides filtration and treatment services to the water and allows for the reuse of water on-site.

connection channel

Filtration Basin 2

connection channel

Filtration Basin 1

Ditch

2 A PRODUCTIVE LANDSCAPE FOR AGRO-TOURISM EXISTING CONDITIONS

PROPOSED

Seasonal rotation agriculture Seasonal campsites (closed form october to april) Seasonal buildings Abandoned areas

Seasonal rotation agriculture

ABANDONED AND SEASONAL LAND

PROPOSED LAND USE FRAMEWORK

Both land-uses and prevalence of abandoned Abandonement andthe seasonality Abandonement and seasonality land present the opportunity for transformation and a synergy of activities between the seasonality of cultivation and tourist activities.

Agricultural “carpet” where cultivation practices are adapted to include: agroforestry, conservation agriculture, community gardens, and greenhouse production.

Seasonal campsites (closed form october to april) Seasonal buildings Abandoned areas

Source : Geoportale - Veneto Region

WATER COLLECTION + TREATMENT

CONSERVATION AGRICULTURE

WATER COLLECTION AND AQUIFER RECHARGE

FOREST PRODUCTION FOR BIOMASS

EXISTING AND PROPOSED CULTIVATION Traditional Agriculture

As with creating a new network for water management, the proposal includes a diversification and integration of productive activities across the territory. Traditional farming is accompanied with conservation agriculture to regenerate the soil, greenhouses production is increased to introduce a higher yield potential for the region and increase self-reliance in local food consumption, while agro-forestry and biomass forests are proposed to increase biodiversity and create a dual revenue channels for farmers.

Conservation Agriculture

Greenhouses

CREATING A TERRITORIAL METABOLISM The interrelation between new productive activities, the proposed water network with the community and summer tourists is essential in creating a cohesive regional â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;metabolismâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; that works together.

Agro-forestry

Biomass Forest

Water is collected in technical and naturalized basins and used for irrigation and the creation of new habitats and a more biodiverse environment. 30 tons of vegetables / ha 1000m3 of water consumption / ha 1000m3 of water consumption / ha 35 Mwh of energy / ha

AGRO-CAMPING EXPANSION FOOD COOPERATIVE

CAMPING VILLAGE

3 A NETWORK FOR PEOPLE AND NATURE Ecological corridors are proposed for ecological and social connectivity and points of interest for education/ social gathering, public parks, and a biodiverse environment. Water, trees and slow mobility lanes are included for the extension of the corridor into the agricultural fabric to provide a landscape for education and showcasing cultivation.

Within this proposed territorial framework of dedicated and specific agricultural practices, ecological corridors are proposed to create distinct connections between the camping villages, town centers, agricultural areas and underused or abandoned historic sites that can be transformed into community space.

CULTIVATING A RESILIENT TERRITORY Together these strategies combine to create a framework for establishing a more resilient Cavallino-Treporti. One that supports a more diverse and productive agricultural sector, a stronger metabolism between tourism and the economy of the local community and a network of corridors to connect people across the peninsula. This is shown first, here, on a local scale in Caâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Savioto demonstrate the potentials for a transect of the peninsula and is expanded (below) to the entire region.

4 Nxt City Design Competition THE CANADIAN CENTRE FOR URBAN RESILIENCE Design Competition, Toronto 2017 Finalist NXT City Design competition was a Toronto-based, annual design competition created by a not-for-profit organization that “connects young leaders with city builders to create, activate, and program public spaces.” The 2017 competition included 4 sites across the city that participants could chose from including the site included here - the Wellington Destructor. A now derelict waste incinerator in the centre of one of Toronto’s fastest growing neighbourhoods, this historic building is slated to be transformed into a community hub in the coming years. Through this competition, participants were asked to propose high-level, visionary ideas for how the site could become a world class example of a sustainable and innovative community space. Below is my proposal for the site - the Canadian Centre for Urban Resilience.

DESIGN INTENT This proposal responds to the need for an innovative community hub in one of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fastest growing urban areas. With a number of new parks proposed and some already underway in the neighbourhood, the Canadian Centre for Urban Resilience will not only connect these future green spaces, but proposes to bring together some of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most forward-thinking organizations and businesses. In doing so, the CCUR would become a hub for the creation and promotion of innovative and sustainable urban policy and practice.

Stage and hillside seating Public Plaza

Green Roof Testing Lab

Biosphere

Urban farm

LOCAL COMMUNITY

Through a unique partnership scheme that brings together public, private and not-for-profit stakeholders, the CCUR will act as an central hub for large-scale green roof technology research, urban farming and food production for an on-site food bank, and community outreach effortsâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; in the form of education, volunteer and employment opportunities.

COMMUNITY HUB AND PARK SPACE

By combining typical community spaces such as a library and a park with research facilities and office space for local NGOs and community organizations, the CCUR would become a world-class example of how sustainable urban policy and practice can be generated at a community scale for the benefit of an entire city.

University of Toronto

FOOD PRODUCTION / DISTRIBUTION COMMUNITY OUTREACH, EDUCATION

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, FOOD SECURITY FOR ALL MEMBERS OF COMMUNITY

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS

RESEARCH COLLABORATION

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

COMMUNITY BENEFITS

RESEARCH COLLABORATION

POLICY CREATION, BEST PRACTICE STANDARDS

5 Open Data EXPLORING CANADAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S POLITICAL, SOCIAL, AND ENVIRONMENTAL BOUNDARIES THROUGH OPEN-SOURCE DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Collaborative Data Visualization Project, Toronto 2017-2018 Open Data is a project done in collaboration with fellow landscape designer Katie Strang. Together, we have been creating a series of maps to explore the perceived, physical, and temporal boundaries that exist across the province of Ontario, Canada and have published our findings in Ground Magazine, a quarterly publication about landscape architecture from the Ontario Association of Landscape Architects (OALA).

Indigenous Reserves Crown Land - General

Cultural Heritage Designatio Provincial Parks Recreation Remote Access Waterway Woodland Caribou Provincial Park

“Far North” Boundary Line

TEXT AND MAP BY JAMES MACDONALD AND KATIE STRANG

Far North Boundary

Kesagami Park

Wabakimi Provincial Park

Crown Land + Reserves

TEXT AND MAPS BY JAMES NELSON MACDONALD AND KATIE STRANG

When the Hudson’s Bay Company sold Rupert’s Land to the Dominion of Canada, it was done without acknowledgement of Aboriginal title to the land, leaving these land claims to be settled through the Numbered Treaties. These treaties established much of the Crown land in Ontario, and continue to be disputed. The maps here show the contrast between the large area claimed

managed under the Public Lands Act. land, administered by the Ministry of N Resources and Forestry, can be used f many activities, including logging and or sold. The ministry sells patents and l for use based on the province’s econo and sustainability goals.

Although these goals have changed o

Disasters that Shape Us

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Disasters that Shape Us

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1980 red lake Forest Fire: Five thousand inhabitants of Red Lake, a remote gold-mining community in Northwestern Ontario, were evacuated, making it one of the largest civilian evacuations in Canadian history.

june 17, 1946, Tornado, windsor: A tornado that developed on the Detroit River damaged and destroyed approximately 400 homes in Windsor and the surrounding area. The tornado took down 150 barns and uprooted hundreds of trees. Seventeen people were killed.

1913 South Porcupine Flood: A major flood in 1913 inundated much of South Porcupine and set the stage for the development of a flood protection system for the Timmins area. 1916 matheson Forest Fire: A forest fire triggered by lightening burned down the towns of Cochrane, Matheson, Iroquois Falls, Porquis Junction, Nushka, and Kelso. The fire killed at least 233 people and remains the most deadly forest fire on record in Ontario. It led to the development of the legislation known today as the Forest Fires Prevention Act and improvements in the techniques used to prevent and control forest fires.

TexT anD maP By jameS maCDOnalD anD kaTie STranG

Seemingly spontaneous, unexpected natural disasters occur worldwide on a daily basis. In many cases, these events have shaped how we inhabit a place—indeed, whether or not we inhabit it at all. They can also have a profound effect on our collective consciousness, particularly in terms of how we prepare for potential disasters. The events that shock us most and affect the greatest number of people tend to illicit a more powerful response— whether that means disaster preparedness, natural resource management, legislation, or the relocation of settlements. This map is a representation of historical events requiring an emergency response, compiled by Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. Although the ministry’s geo-located tracking began only in 2010, their database includes recorded emergencies dating back to the mid-19th century. These are events that caused significant structural damage, community evacuation, or the involvement of MNR emergency response personnel. Most of the events fall into the expected typologies of natural disaster— forest fire, flooding, erosion/landslides, tornadoes, dam failures, droughts—but there are also data points for disasters such as the E.coli water contamination in Kashechewan First Nation, a mine tailings leak near Sault Ste. Marie, and various communication network failures across the province. While our capacity to respond to and mitigate the effects of disasters has improved over the years, it’s important to recognize patterns in places where geography or climate serve to make emergencies cyclical, even if those recurrence intervals strain our collective memory. Modern mapping can illuminate trends, and traditional knowledge can extend understanding beyond written records. As climate change makes extreme weather patterns more commonplace, it becomes vital that we shift our understanding away from viewing these events as spontaneous. By taking a long view of changes in our environment, we can understand when adaptation is necessary to create resilient landscapes and communities. It’s simply a matter of seeing the warning signs.

1986 landslide, Brantford: A huge landslide close to the Grand River occurred in 1986 and affected a lumber yard, florist shop, gas bar, car wash, and the railway line. Four residences were evacuated. This site is now closely monitored and efforts to develop and refine remediation to address slope stability issues are ongoing. 1998 mississippi river/The Clyde river Flooding: The Clyde River peaked at a 1-in-500-year flood level, while the Mississippi River peaked in excess of the 1-in-100-year level. Extensive flooding occurred in communities along the system, forcing the evacuation of nearby residents.

Continuity of Operations Event (including loss of communications networks) Petroleum Resource Centre Event Emergency Management Ontario Requested Assistance - No Evacuation Emergency Management Ontario Requested Assistance - Evacuation Fire - No Evacuation Fire - Evacuation Flood - No Evacuation Flood - Evacuation Erosion - No Evacuation Erosion - Evacuation Requested Assistance Drought or Low Water Dam Failure National Fire Database Ontario - 1960-1969 National Fire Database Ontario - 1970-1979 National Fire Database Ontario - 1980-1989 National Fire Database Ontario - 1990-1999 National Fire Database Ontario - 2000-2009 National Fire Database Ontario - 2010-2019

DISASTERS THAT SHAPE US

Ground: Landscape Architect Quarterly Ontario Association of Landscape Architects Issue 39 - ‘Spontaneous’ Available at: https://www.oala.ca/ground-details/?issue=39039

BiOS/ jameS maCDOnalD GraDUaTeD FrOm The UniverSiTy OF TOrOnTO’S mla PrOGram aT The jOhn h. DanielS FaCUlTy OF arChiTeCTUre, lanDSCaPe, anD DeSiGn in 2015. SinCe GraDUaTinG, he haS Been wOrkinG aS a lanDSCaPe DeSiGner in TOrOnTO while PUrSUinG reSearCh COnCerninG ClimaTe ChanGe aDaPTaTiOn. kaTie STranG iS a TOrOnTO-BaSeD DeSiGner anD memBer OF The Ground eDiTOrial BOarD.

1870 Great Fire of Carleton County: A forest fire swept through Carleton County moving north towards Ottawa during a particularly hot and dry summer in 1870. It burnt 250,000 hectares of pine forest between Smith Falls and Ottawa, resulting in approximately 20 deaths and forcing 2,000 people out of their homes. The fire was extinguished by breaking up the dam at Dow’s Lake, which stopped the fire from moving into Ottawa. The federal government, though hesitant at first, assisted those who were affected by the disaster, and this set the precedent for federal governmental assistance at the time of a disaster, a practice that continues to this day. 1954 hurricane hazel, Toronto: The remnants of Hurricane Hazel, combined with a wet and rainy few weeks preceding the storm, resulted in unprecedented flooding and Toronto’s worst recorded natural disaster. It left 81 people dead and caused between $25 and $100 million in damages. However, the storm sparked the expansion of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority’s responsibilities to include flood control. COnTainS inFOrmaTiOn liCenSeD UnDer The OPen GOvernmenT liCenSe—OnTariO, inClUDinG DaTa FrOm The naTiOnal Fire DaTaBaSe. mOre inFOrmaTiOn anD The COmPleTe liCenSe Can Be FOUnD here: hTTPS://www.javaCOeaPP.lrC.GOv.On.Ca/ GeOneTwOrk/Srv/en/main.hOme?UUiD=42FF03B0-12DD-446a-88F1-73CB5D97126D.

Published in issue 39 of Ground Magazine, “Disasters that Shape Us” explores natural disasters that have occurred across the province of Ontario since the 19th century. Specifically, natural disasters that had a profound effect on communities, either through population displacement or legislative/ policy change.

Governance and Sovereignty in Ontario’s North

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Governance and Sovereignty in Ontario’s North

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Treaties Morris Map 1943

Indigenous Reserves Crown Land - General Cultural Heritage Designation Provincial Parks Recreation Remote Access Waterway Woodland Caribou Provincial Park

“Far North” Boundary Line

TEXT AND MAP BY JAMES MACDONALD AND KATIE STRANG

Kesagami Park

Far North Boundary

Wabakimi Provincial Park

Adhesion to Treaty, No. 5, 1908, 1909, and 1910 Adhesion to Treaty, No. 9, 1929 Crawford's Purchase, 1783, Algonquins and Iroquois Crawford's Purchase, 1783, Mississaugas John Collins' Purchase, 1785 Johnson, Butler Purchase, 1784, 1787, 1788 Treaty No. 11, 1798 Treaty No. 13, 1805 Treaty No. 13A, 1805 Treaty No. 16, 1815 Treaty No. 18, 1818 Treaty No. 19, 1818 Treaty No. 2, 1790 Treaty No. 20, 1818 Treaty No. 21, 1819 Treaty No. 27, 1819 Treaty No. 29, 1827 Treaty No. 3, 1792 Treaty No. 3, 1873 Treaty No. 3.5, 1793 Treaty No. 3.75, 1795 Treaty No. 35, 1833 Treaty No. 381, 1781 Treaty No. 4, 1793 Treaty No. 45, 1836 Treaty No. 45.5, 1836 Treaty No. 5, 1798 Treaty No. 5, 1875 Treaty No. 57, 1847 Treaty No. 6, 1796 Treaty No. 60, 1850 Treaty No. 61, 1850 Treaty No. 7, 1796 Treaty No. 72, 1854 Treaty No. 82, 1857 Treaty No. 9, 1905-1906 Williams Treaty with the Chippewa, 1923 Williams Treaty with the Mississaugas, 1923

Indigenous Reserve

Crown Land + Reserves

Land Treaties + Reserves fig.1

fig.2

TEXT AND MAPS BY JAMES NELSON MACDONALD AND KATIE STRANG

Most federal Crown land is in the Northern Territories—where it is also Inuit land. The remainder exists as pockets within the provinces; primarily as national parks, reserves, and Canadian Forces bases. In Ontario, most privately held land is clustered near the southern border, leaving an expansive 87 percent as Crown land, primarily north of the Great Lakes. Ten percent of that is held as parks and conservation areas, while much of the rest is categorized as general use and

managed under the Public Lands Act. This land, administered by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, can be used for many activities, including logging and mining, or sold. The ministry sells patents and leases for use based on the province’s economic and sustainability goals. Although these goals have changed over time, Crown land has a long history as an economic catalyst. The Dominion Lands Act of 1871 bestowed huge areas of Crown land to the Canadian Pacific Railway for its

GOVERNANCE & SOVEREIGNTY IN ONTARIO’S NORTH Ground: Landscape Architect Quarterly Ontario Association of Landscape Architects Issue 40 - North

Available at: https://www.oala.ca/ground-details/?issue=33535 *Crown land is the term used to describe land owned by the federal or provincial governments. Authority for control of these public lands rests with the Crown, hence their name. Presently, 89% of Canada’s land is considered Crown Land.

transcontinental line, and apportioned Southern Ontario into farmland for settlers. In the 1940s, the Ministry of Natural Resources disposed of lands for private recreational purposes and, in the 1960s, it took this policy further, acting as a developer proactively creating cottage lots. Environmental concerns halted this process, although Crown land can still be sold for cottages by municipalities that apply for permission. In 2011, the Far North Act came into effect, establishing a new direction for land

planning beyond the Far North Boundary, or north of Woodland Caribou and Wabakimi provincial parks. The intention is to protect 225,000 square kilometres of boreal forest (21 percent of Ontario) and establish community-based land-use planning that is consistent with Indigenous treaty rights. However, this move is not supported by the Nishnawbe Aski Nation, the primary occupants of the Far North, who maintain that the freezing of so much of their territory prevents them from participating in modern economic development.

You can continue to explore the evolution of Crown land in Canada by using Ontario’s Crown Land Use Policy Atlas, an online mapping tool provided by the MNR (www.crownlanduseatlas.mnr.gov.on.ca). BIO/ JAMES NELSON MACDONALD IS A LANDSCAPE DESIGNER AT FERRIS + ASSOCIATES IN TORONTO AND A MEMBER OF THE Ground EDITORIAL BOARD. JAMES IS PASSIONATE ABOUT COMBINING HIS INTERESTS IN MAPPING, DATA VISUALIZATION, AND RESEARCH ON TOPICS SUCH AS CLIMATE CHANGE, CANADA’S NORTH, AND GEOPOLITICAL BOUNDARIES. KATIE STRANG IS MEMBER OF THE Ground EDITORIAL BOARD, AND A DESIGNER AT BSQ LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS.

These maps reveal the subdivision of land designation, governance, and sovereignty in Northern Ontario. Most privately held land is clustered near the Southern border, leaving an expansive 87% as ‘Crown Land’*, stretching towards the Hudson Bay. Ten percent of that is held as park and conservation area, while much of the rest is categorized as general use and managed under the Public Lands Act. This land, administered by the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), can be many things, including logged, mined, or sold. The MNR gives patents and leases for use based on its economic and sustainability goals.