Charles M. Russell National Wildlife R efuge Interpretive Trail
Prepared for U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge Lewistown, Montana
Conceptual Masterplan Design
Conceptual Masterplan Design for
Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge Interpretive Trail
August 2009 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services CMR National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters 333 Airport Road Lewistown, Montana
Contents INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................................................................... 1 Site Description Project Description Project Phasing and Costs Community Involvement CONCEPTUAL MASTERPLAN DESIGN.................................................................................................................. 7 Masterplan NARRATIVE.............................................................................................................................................................................. 11 Entering the Site Learning and Understanding Walking through the Site Completing the Experience DESIGN GUIDELINES......................................................................................................................................................... 19 Trail Specifics Discovery Nodes Planting Design Composition Erosion Control Wildlife Habitat Observation Deck Noxious Weed Display Sustainability Demonstration Sculpture/Artists Area Lecture Area Picnic Grounds Parking Phasing and Future Expansion APPENDIX................................................................................................................................................................................. 31 Additional Resources and References Before and After Views
Introduction
1
2
Introduction The Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge is a 1.1 million-acre area of land located in north central Montana. The refuge was created in 1936 and named after Charles M. Russell who is a famous landscape painter of the region. The refuge is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal species, and offers opportunities for visitors to experience a landscape rich with history and beauty. The Missouri River winds through the refuge, creating riparian habitat and scenic vistas. The cultural and historic importance of the refuge draws tourists, outdoor enthusiasts, and those interested in experiencing land untouched by development or human influence. SITE DESCRIPTION The refuge headquarters is located in Lewistown, Montana, with three buildings currently residing onsite, two of which will eventually be demolished. The building housing the headquarters was built recently
and is where most of the administrative duties take place. The building sits on approximately 3.25-acres and overlooks a small pond and fenced area which serves as a refuge for two bison. Vegetation is varied and somewhat sparse in areas. Soil types are similar to those on the refuge and are suitable for the introduction of regionally native plants. Since the site is in an area with naturally occurring wildlife habitat, it is important that these areas remain intact throughout the implementation of the design. The trail and landscape should serve to enhance the ecological habitat and not hinder it. The topography of the land gradually slopes down towards the pond, creating opportunities to establish both prairie and riparian landscape areas. Since the headquarters building is located at the high point of the land, there are opportunities for highly accessible viewing areas designed to overlook the scenic coulee below. Because of the changes in topography, there is also some issues with water run-off and erosion. This can be mitigated by strategically locating planting areas to stabilize loose hillsides, creating
The Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge is an area rich in culture and history, with breathtaking views of vast prairies, winding rivers, and striking mountains in the distance.
terraces to slow the flow of water, or utilizing additional erosion control methods. The Lewistown Trail System runs adjacent to the site and will be connected to the interpretive trail in order to create a sense of pride and ownership within the community. The location is relatively out of the way for area tourists and would be more visible if off-site signage is implemented and the trail is identified to be connected with the larger trail system.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION The CMR National Wildlife Refuge Interpretive Trail intends to create an experience as if a user is walking through the refuge itself. An ADA accessible trail, plantings themed as prairie, riparian, forest, and badlands, interpretive signage, a picnic area, viewing deck, artists’ area, and wildlife viewing stations will bring the spirit of the refuge to the
3
CMR NWR Interpretive Trail Conceptual Masterplan Design
site to allow visitors which will understand and experience this important landmark without leaving town. Important care should be taken to ensure the success of wildlife habitat and plant establishment. Areas prone to erosion will be mitigated to ensure the longevity of the landscape. Native planting areas will function with as if they would on the actual refuge. This report will serve as a conceptual guide for the design of the project. Materials, vegetative species, educational aspects, and trail layout are intended to be flexible and allow for change as needed.
PROJECT PHASING AND COSTS Costs will be determined by the materials used during installation, including trail elements, signage materials, vegetative species, hardscape elements, deck materials, and seating elements. Using recycled and salvaged materials is highly encouraged, as it will add to the educational demonstration of sustainable techniques and serve as an example of how to leave a lighter footprint on the land. Phasing is also an important cost effective method that can be used during construction. As money becomes available, portions of the project can be completed, beginning with the most vital aspects of the design. The masterplan is designed with the intention of leaving the existing buildings on site throughout the forefront of the installation.
4
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT The CMR National Wildlife Refuge Interpretive Trail should function as an extension of the Lewistown Trail System in order to draw the entire community to experience a piece of the refuge. To create a vested community interest in the landscape, it would be beneficial to incorporate its members as much as possible, which can also have economic benefits. For example, interpretive signage could be a community design contest or be a part of a high school art class’s curriculum. Installation could be a community effort as well. Workshops to teach people about native vegetation and planting composition methods could be held to further educate the public about the landscape. Erosion mitigation and rainwater harvesting could also serve as important teaching tools for students or homeowners. When the project is completed, community members will want to bring friends and family to the place that they helped create, further creating ties and a sense of pride to Central Montanans.
Introduction
5
6
M asterplan
7
8
Narrative
11
12
Narrative The CMR National Wildlife Refuge Interpretive Trail will allow community residents to experience the beauty of the refuge right in their own backyards. The trail will be a destination that appeals to students wanting to learn about plants and animals, families with visitors in town, or couples out for an evening stroll. Refer to page 9 to view the interpretive trail masterplan. Use the masterplan to follow along with the subsequent walk-through narrative. This description allows one to envision what the user experience would be if most of the design guidelines in the following chapter are implemented.
trail resembles a wooden boardwalk, sitting lightly upon the land and slightly raised to allow water run-off to pass underneath (see the perspective on the following page). This variety of trail materials creates an aesthetic interest, allows opportunities for education, and allows the design to function with the land instead of against it.
LEARNING AND UNDERSTANDING When beginning the journey along the trail, orientation signs provide an overview map as
ABOVE. Wildlife “tracks” can be hidden in rocks to provide educational interest for children exploring the site. BELOW. Perspective view looking west while walking on the Airport Road portion of the Lewistown Trail System. See the Appendix for the “before” view.
ENTERING THE SITE The CMR National Wildlife Refuge Interpretive Trail will draw residents and visitors to the site to experience a historic landscape rich with cultural, environmental, and artistic value. Some users will discover the trail by coming across the informational signage and introduced vegetation along the existing Lewistown Trail System (see perspective at right). After learning where the loop trail is located and that it is open to the public, those on the trail can safely use the cross-walk on Airport Road and can stop at the orientation signage located at the northeast corner of the site. Those entering by vehicle can park in the landscaped lot and walk to the trail signage towards the east side of the lot. Upon entering the site, users will see a natural trail to lead them throughout the various interpretive elements. In some places, the trail will blend with the natural surroundings and create a feeling of walking on a trail in the woods. At other times, the
13
CMR NWR Interpretive Trail Conceptual Masterplan Design
LEFT. View looking north towards Airport Road showing the raised boardwalk in areas prone to water runoff and erosion. Plantings can be concentrated in relation to the natural topography of the land to utilize water harvesting methods for the establishment and success of vegetation. BELOW. A node of interest featuring an interpretive sign display.
interest, signage will be larger and more specific in explaining educational features, mainly featuring vegetation, wildlife, and sustainable techniques. Additionally, a variety of animal “tracks� are hidden throughout the interpretive landscape and usually found near educational elements. Children visiting the site will enjoy searching for the tracks and will be encouraged to learn about plants and animals while exploring the site.
WALKING THROUGH THE SITE The vegetation of the landscape creates the feeling of walking through the CMR refuge. All introduced vegetation is native to the region and
well as information about how this loop segment fits within the city trail system. Additional signs located throughout the landscape will allow opportunities to read about vegetation and wildlife of the refuge, as well as various environmentally-minded design elements used throughout the site. Signs will represent the local surroundings and can
14
be made by community artists or students to create a feeling of pride and ownership to tie the community to the landscape. Signs will be placed at a variety of heights to create added interest and appeal to all age levels. Generally, signage will be minimal throughout the majority of the site, as to not detract from the natural experience. When users reach one of the various nodes of
Narrative is representative of typical ecosystems seen on the refuge. The native prairie zones are rich with thick grasses and shrubs and create habitat areas for wildlife species such as sharptail and sagegrouse. A shrub garden mixes with a wildflower patch to create color and scent in the background. A terraced shrub garden creates added interest and stabilizes the steep slope descending from the building.
As one walks further towards the south fence, vegetation becomes greener and more lush, and eventually transitions into a riparian zone. Here, tall cottonwoods create shade and microclimates for thick and lush vegetative patches. In this segment, the trail is raised and made of wood which creates a feeling of walking along a thickly vegetative areas near the Missouri River. The boardwalk leads to a node of interest which explains the vegetation
and importance of water to riparian ecosystems. Educational elements further explain how rainwater run-off can be managed and harnessed to create native landscapes. As the boardwalk leads users out of the riparian zone, the trail material changes to a natural surface and the landscape transitions back to native prairie (see the perspective to the left). It is here that a node of interest provides a natural photography backdrop for visitors trying to catch a glimpse of wildlife. Also in this node is an area to sit and observe the bison grazing in the fields below. The view and backdrop of the rolling hills and breathtaking mountains allow a perfect setting to learn about the wildlife of the refuge and wait to see the bison in their natural habitat. The natural trail continues to loop and wind past smaller gardens showcasing small native vegetation. Users begin the climb up a slight slope, as the vegetation begins to transition to that resembling that of a forested slope. Here, ponderosa pine create shade and seclusion and give the feeling of climbing up a hill from the river while on the refuge. Over past the fence, users see hints of a marmot habitat and have an opportunity to stop and observe this interesting species at the next node of interest. Once reaching the top of the forested slope, visitors can take-in the vast views from the observation deck, complete with viewing scope, seating, and shade. Here they can also learn about noxious weeds and the importance LEFT. Perspective view of the riparian zone transitioning to the native prairie zone near the node of interest describing the wildlife viewing area.
15
CMR NWR Interpretive Trail Conceptual Masterplan Design
of knowing how to identify these dangerous species. Also in this area, education about composting, rainwater harvesting, recycling, alternative paving materials, and other sustainable techniques are on display. This area encourages users to incorporate these techniques at their homes or businesses and teaches them about the benefits of living green. Upon continuing through the site, a natural art sculpture area with rock outcroppings completes the badlands area of the landscape. Here, a node of interest displays information about the great Montana badlands of the refuge and creates an area for recognizing the various artists that contributed to the landscape. Additionally, the path winds through a wildflower meadow complete with memorandum stones to further incorporate the community and create additional interest for users. Also, this area will have an informal meeting space for nature talks and presentations by Fish and Wildlife staff.
COMPLETING THE EXPERIENCE The trail ends at a natural picnic area where a building used to be located. This shaded picnic area creates a place for individuals or families to sit and relax, reflecting upon the beauty of the refuge. Small planting nodes allow users to identify plants they learned throughout the site, and signs remind people to recycle, compost, and always think about their effects on the environment. Sunny and shaded seating areas provide year-round comfort. A vegetative buffer along the road creates privacy at the picnic area and users are able to reflect on their “walk through the refuge.�
16
ABOVE. A view looking south while standing on the added observation deck. An open planter in the middle adds seating and shade, while transparent railings aid in visibility.
Narrative
17
18
Design Guidelines
19
20
Design Guidelines The conceptual design of the interpretive trail and surrounding landscape elements are intended to be flexible and allow for change as deemed appropriate during planning and installation. For example, plant species could be substituted or eliminated due to availability, and trail materials could be reevaluated in terms of existing resources or preference. The purpose of the masterplan is to provide a wide array of design ideas, and is not meant to be used as a construction document.
TYPICAL TRAIL SECTION SCALE 1/8”= 1’-0”
The following design guidelines are suggested to ensure a variety of aesthetic, environmental, economic, and sociocultural options. LINKING TO THE CITY TRAIL SYSTEM It is important that community members feel that the CMR loop is open and available to be enjoyed by all. Additionally, this loop could greatly enhance the existing Lewistown Trail system by providing an area specifically designed to educate the public about the region’s ecological significance. In order for the loop to best be linked with the city trail, it is proposed to add vegetation, seating, and signage along the portion of the trail running next to Airport Road. This will allow this segment of the trail to function as an entrance corridor to the loop trail.
TRAIL SPECIFICS To meet ADA requirements, the trail must have a maximum slope of five percent and be a minimum width of three feet. It is suggested in this conceptual plan that the majority of the trail should be ten feet wide with six feet of sufficient overhead clearance on each side. This far exceeds ADA requirements
and will result in a pleasant walking experience for users. Most importantly, users should have enough room and the surface should be smooth and regular. At the edge of each side of the trail, there should be a two foot transition back to grade. Five feet on each side of the trail should be cleared and maintained after vegetative establishment to ensure the trail is not overgrown and access is maintained. See the trail crosssections on this page for illustrative examples of these specifics.
TYPICAL TRAIL SECTION DETAIL NTS
ABOVE. Typical cross-section of the “natural” portion of the trail, using either a gravel aggregate or asphalt as the surface material. RIGHT. Detail of typical cross-section.
21
CMR NWR Interpretive Trail Conceptual Masterplan Design
Proposed Materials. Due to the nature of the site topography, it is suggested that the trail surface design utilizes a variety of materials in order to adapt as the land changes. The two main trail materials proposed on the masterplan are composite gravel and elevated wood (also called a “puncheon� trail).
The Airport Road portion of the Lewistown Trail System is made from a compressed gravel composite. This material is costeffective, easy to install, a local resource, and would provide an appropriate aesthetic for the natural landscape.
These two trail types would provide an aesthetic appropriate for a natural landscape. Additionally, the composite gravel would provide cohesion with the rest of the city trails, be cost-effective, and is relatively easy to install. The composite gravel trail would blend with the natural surroundings, and be minimally noticeable which would serve to keep the focus on the landscape. A downfall of using this material is the lack of stability in areas prone to erosion, which may cause the trail to be muddy or wash away. Because of this, it is proposed to use an elevated boardwalk trail in areas that may be prone to
erosion. This material may be more expensive and difficult to install than others, however, the aesthetic value would be great, and stability of the landscape would be ensured during times of intense moisture. Additionally, to cut costs of this material, the boardwalk could measure at five feet in width to decrease the amount of wood needed for installation. There is a variety of construction methods that could be used to create the boardwalk. See the appendix for additional resources or contact a local construction contractor to determine the method most appropriate for the site and materials available. However, these are not the only two possible trail materials available. Many other options have benefits as well, and the final design should implement materials that are economic, appropriate for a natural landscape, environmentally sustainable, or a combination of those factors.
SCHEMATIC TRAIL PLAN
A raised boardwalk allows access over areas prone to erosion and water run-off. It also creates a light footprint over environmentally sensitive areas.
22
Design Guidelines Asphalt as an Alternative. In addition to regular asphalt that is typically used to pave parking lots and roadways, porous asphalt is also available and would be more appropriate for this design. Porous asphalt allows water to permeate through the surface of the trail and into the soil below. This surface material meets ADA requirements and appears similar to asphalt. There are many benefits of using this material, as well as a few drawbacks. Porous asphalt is relatively inexpensive, and provides a long-term (20 years) option in areas of the site where there is a high concentration of water runoff. The surface dries quickly due to the quick infiltration of water which would allow the trail to be used in colder months. Asphalt can be placed on minor slopes, over uneven topography using free flowing lines. Additionally, using this material would provide educational opportunities relating to water management and the conservation of natural resources. However, this material does not provide the most appropriate aesthetic for a natural trail setting which may out way the benefits. And although it costs about the same as conventional asphalt, the underlying stone bed is more expensive than a conventional, compacted, sub-base. Additionally, some maintenance may be required to ensure the longevity of the trail. See the image to the right for a detailed cross-section of porous asphalt and refer to the appendix for additional references. An additional option would be to use colored asphalt to relate better with the natural setting. Color may be accomplished using available polymer pigments, or by specifying colored aggregate which will provide a base color. However, the color is known to fade so this may not a long-term option.
ABOVE. Colored asphalt stamped with a brick pattern. RIGHT. Asphalt trails made with porous pavement allow water to infiltrate through to the surface below. BELOW. A cross-section of the materials needed to construct a trail made with porous pavement.
UNPAVED EDGE
OPEN-GRADED ASPHALT MIX
STABILIZED CRUSHED AGGREGATE
STONE RECHARGE BED NON-WOVEN GEOTEXTILE UNCOMPACTED SUBGRADE
23
CMR NWR Interpretive Trail Conceptual Masterplan Design
DISCOVERY NODES
BELOW. A concrete path winding through a natural landscape in Willow Grove Park in Texas.
Throughout the design, “discovery nodes” are proposed, which are small gathering areas intended to display educational materials, showcase views, or have seating areas for viewing wildlife, plants, and nature in general. All nodes should be flat and open to provide accessibility for all. The location, quantity, and materials used in each node are flexible and can be changed according to the budget and availability of materials. Surface Materials. A variety of surface materials should be used in the discovery nodes. Recycled materials are specifically suggested to be used in these areas in order to further educate the public about sustainable materials. Options available include: Concrete. Although asphalt is a softer surface and is generally preferred by runners and walkers, concrete may be an additional option for a trail material.
• • • • •
It is more expensive than asphalt (approximately 30-60% more) but may provide a more natural look due to the muted color and texture. Concrete would require grading of the site and would fit less into the natural topography than asphalt would. However, the longevity of concrete is desirable and maintenance costs are minimal. See the Appendix for additional resources about using asphalt vs. concrete. Costs. Many aspects in trail planning are flexible, including trail width, construction methods, resource availability, fuel prices, and the quantity needed. Building and maintenance costs must also be evaluated when choosing the appropriate trail materials. Cost estimates should be gathered from a construction contractor once the finalized materials are chosen.
24
•
Flagstone (created from salvaged concrete) Recycled Brick (crushed aggregate or pavers) Recycled Glass Crushed Recycled Concrete Rubber Asphalt (a blend of asphalt cement, reclaimed tire rubber, and additive for binding) Recycled Tire “Mulch”
The discovery nodes can vary in size, but would be most appropriate at approximately twenty feet in diameter. “Gravelpave2” technology is a good option for ensuring the stabilization of the surface. The materials used in these nodes could serve as educational conversation starters, and since the area used for each would be relatively small, could be replaced if found to be undesirable.
ABOVE (top to bottom). Recycled brick aggregate, recycled brick pavers, and recycled glass used as surface materials.
Educational Aspects. Each node provides a great opportunity to educate users about various themes relating to the refuge. It is suggested to limit the themes in order to provide
Design Guidelines BELOW (top to bottom). Recycled concrete aggregate, recycled tires, and rubber asphalt used as surface materials.
a clear and concise lesson for the audience. Three themes that would be good options are: • Ecology and the Environment • Wildlife • Plants
Additionally, views should be greatly taken into account when incorporating any seating areas.
In the landscape surrounding the nodes, specific educational aspects could be focused on that relate to whatever “theme” the node refers to.
All existing vegetation on the site should remain in place unless determined to be diseased, invasive, or otherwise undesirable.
Signage and Seating. Signage could be an extremely costly aspect of the trail design. It is suggested to focus the most important signs in the discovery nodes to allow the rest of the landscape to speak for itself. It would be highly beneficial to incorporate the community while creating the signage in order to decrease cost, as well as to provide interest in the site.
Although plantings should appear as natural as possible, use these guidelines when planning on introducing vegetation. Planting composition should be reflective of the refuge and care should be taken to ensure proper clearing around the trail and nodes. Layering of the under-, mid-, and over-stories are important when creating wildlife habitat. Mass and void should be noted when planting as well. See the Appendix for additional resources regarding planting design composition. Planting “zones” shown on the masterplan should use a variety of plant species and species should be used to blend the “zones” together, creating a seamless appearance. Use the following lists for some available options.
Seating within the discovery nodes is optional and would create places for reflection and conversation among users. Materials should be of a natural aesthetic, and again could incorporate community members to decrease costs. It is suggested to keep any seating elements simple as to not detract from the natural setting.
A simple seat wall using recycled brick is an option for an element that could be implemented in a discovery node.
PLANTING DESIGN COMPOSITION
Native Prairie. • prickly pear (Opuntia) • rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus) • gumbo lily (Oenothera cespitosa) • wax currant (Ribes cereum) • woods rose (Rosa woodsii) • snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus) • yucca (Yucca glauca) • yarrow (Achillea millefolium) Forested Coulee. • ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) • Rocky Mountain juniper (Juniperus scopulorum)
25
CMR NWR Interpretive Trail Conceptual Masterplan Design • • •
douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) woods lily (Lilium philadelphicum) native ferns
Riparian/River Bottom. • green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) • sandbar willow (Salix interior) • red-stem dogwood (Cornus stolonifera) • plains cottonwood (Populus deltoides) • common chokecherry (Prunus virginiana) • silver buffaloberry (Shepherdia argentea) • peachleaf willow (Salix amygdaloides) • Other species with fall colors Badlands. • purple and white prairieclover • barrel cactus • rocks and boulders as focal features Wildflower Meadows. • Rocky Mountain iris (Iris missouriensis) • silvery lupine (Lupinus argenteus) • scarlet globemallow (Sphaeralcea coccinea) • sago lily (Calochortus nuttallii) • silvery lupine (Lupinus argenteus) • prairie coneflower (Ratibida columnaris) • maximillian sunflower (Helianthus maximiliani) • american vetch (Vicia americana) Shrub Gardens. • silver sagebrush (Artemisia cana) • Wyoming bigsagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) • fringed sagewort (Artemisia frigida) Additional Species to Create Habitat. • bluebunch wheatgrass (Pseudoroegneria spicata) • purple prairie clover (Dalea purpurea) • western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii) • prairie junegrass (Koeleria macrantha)
26
Design Guidelines • • • • •
green needlegrass (Stipa viridula) needleandthread grass (Stipa comata) sandberg bluegrass (Poa secunda) blue grama (Bouteloua gracilis) prairie sandreed (Calamovilfa longifolia)
EROSION CONTROL Vegetation is a good way to stabilize banks that are unsturdy. Terracing and planting shrubs can provide the soil with more stability and reduce erosion. In areas particularly prone to erosion, it may be helpful to use coir (coconut fibers) which is a natural product that holds unstable soils in place. Additionally, it is important to reduce water run-off A bioswale is a method used to direct water run-off to appropriate places in order to mitigate erosion and create planting areas.
in areas prone to erosion. Rocks, boulders, and small trenches can guide water to more desirable locations, creating small basins for planting and leading the water through the site without it causing problems. In the area prone to erosion located near the flag pole of the headquarters building, a combination of these methods is suggested. Terracing the slope would allow for bank stabilization and create planting areas. Coir could be added to further aid in erosion control, and shrubs could be eventually planted to create a hold with the soil and roots. See the Appendix for additional resources regarding erosion control and guides on terracing slopes.
WILDLIFE HABITAT Special attention should be focused on the ecological health of the wildlife habitat. In order for the interpretive garden to be successful, a successful habitat is imperative for education and demonstration. Revegetation should even be considered in areas fenced off for the bison if deemed necessary. Interpretive signage, views, seating, and educational methods should focus on habitat for: • • • • • • • •
Bison Marmot Birds of a variety of species (including boxes and bird blinds for feeding stations) Bats Insects Deer Antelope Additional regional species in the area
OBSERVATION DECK The observation deck located to the west side of the headquarters building is designed to be a place where visitors can wait to catch glimpses of the bison or absorb the natural surroundings above the trail. The deck should be built flush with the grade of the sidewalk leading to the parking lot, which will reduce the need for stairs and create an easier construction method. The perspective shown in the narrative section shows the middle portion of the deck as cut-out to provide an area for vegetation to come through. This would create shade and an opportunity for a seating wall in the middle of the deck. It is suggested to use a relatively transparent material for the railings, as to ensure visibility for all ages and abilities.
NOXIOUS WEED EDUCATION A noxious weed display area could be showcased on the side of the building to provide further educational interest at the site. This display case should be upright and weatherproof, and could be flat to hold photos for plant identification, or could be built-out to hold fake weed samples. See the examples on the following page for imagry. Further information can also be found in the appendix.
SUSTAINABILITY DEMONSTRATION The recycling education node is located near the observation deck in order to provide an additional point of interest for those only interested in viewing
27
CMR NWR Interpretive Trail Conceptual Masterplan Design
the bison. Aspects that could be discussed here include: • Water conservation • Composting • Recycling waste • Using recycled materials • Solar power • Wind power
SCULPTURE/ARTIST’S AREA The sculpture and artists area is shown on the masterplan in conjunction with the badlands vegetative display and the wildflower meadow. This is done with the intention of creating an outdoor artists gallery that doesn’t take-away from images of the refuge. It is suggested that sculpture and art pieces be made from metal or wire. Additionally, the art should have a connection to the refuge itself, and abstractly tell a story of the importance of the landscape. Additionally in this area, it is proposed to include
small memorandum stones which would serve to provide further connections with the community. All of the art pieces in this area should appear connected to the landscape design, and provide an area of peace and solitude.
“NATURE CIRCLES” AND LECTURE AREA Although small lectures could be held in the discovery nodes or on the observation deck, a small area specifically designed to accommodate “Nature Circles” talks is located near artists area. This open area would be the only part of the landscape that would be needed to be mowed regularly. The planting design surrounding the space should provide privacy and interest for those participating in the lectures.
PICNIC GROUNDS The picnic grounds would be completed in a later phase of the construction. It is proposed to be located where there is currently an existing building since this site would be the most appropriate due to the disturbance. A few picnic tables and lots of shade trees are important in this area. A creative ground material that would be appropriate here might be recycled tire mulch. The softness of the mulch would create interest and provide an educational lesson for those picnicking at the site.
ABOVE. The noxious weed display could be a simple weatherproof case with a cork backing to hang documentation, or it could be a series of built-out display cases to hold realistic weed samples.
28
PARKING The masterplan shows an added “island” in the parking lot with planted vegetation. This would
Design Guidelines create a visual interest when entering the lot and also provide more order for drivers entering and exiting. This is an important addition, as traffic will likely increase and safety concerns will need to be addressed. A bicycle rack is also shown as an addition near the headquarters building. Although small, this is an especially important element in the design, as it would create the message that alternative transportation is important in the community.
PHASING AND FUTURE EXPANSION See the diagram at right for a visual guide of how the site could be phased. Phases One through Three are the most imperitive to the design, while Phase Four is optional and dependent on future funding. The wetlands and pond area located to the south of the site provide a tremendous opportunity for visitors to learn more about riparian landscapes. One possible way to create greater accessibility near the pond is to physically move the fence, and create a riparian “nook� leading down to the pond, while still allowing the bison to pass through. Another option is to create a raised boardwalk (see image below) that the bison could pass underneath, which would allow for great views and closer interactions with wildlife.
PHASE ONE
PHASE THREE
PHASE TWO
PHASE FOUR
29
30
A ppendix
31
32
Appendix | Additional Resources and References ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Porous Asphalt. See the National Asphalt Pavement Association for more details (www.hotmix. org). General information about the material as well as a design guide, “Porous Asphalt Pavements for Stormwater Management: Design, Construction, and Maintenance Guide” is available through the organization. Concrete Vs. Asphalt. See www.americantrails.org/resources/ trailbuilding/BuildAsphaltCloserLook.html for detailed information comparing the two materials. See also: www.columbiatribune.com/ news/2009/jul/06/concrete-best-for-newtrails/ Recycled Glass. The City of Austin used recycled glass for a trail project. See http://discoverygarden. wordpress.com/2009/06/23/recycled-glasstrails/ for more details. Planting Design Composition. Mississippi State University has good information about designing with native plants. See http://msucares.com/lawn/ landscape/sustainable/nativeplants.html for more details.
Brad Lancaster is a national source on rainwater capture and harvesting. See his website at http://www. harvestingrainwater.com/ to learn more. The NRCS has valuable information about bioswales at http://www.mt.nrcs. usda.gov/technical/ecs/water/lid/ bioswaledesign.html Erosion Control. See Las Pilitas Nursery’s website for the do’s and don’ts of erosion control in small landscapes at www.laspilitas.com/garden/ howto/slope. NRCS Guide to Backyard Terracing is available at www.nrcs.usda.gov/feature/ backyard/terrac.html. Asphalt Rubber. See http://www.asphaltrubber.org/ari/ for more details. Noxious Weed Display. See http://www.edimeta.com/posequipment/frame/display-case/indoorand-outdoor-display-cases-watertightand-extra-flat.html for the first example. The build-out example is from the 2006 Colorado State Fair and was found at flickr.com.
REFERENCES Cahill, Thomas H., et al., “Porous Asphalt: The Right Choice for Porous Pavements,” Hot Mix Asphalt Technology, National Asphalt Pavement Association, Lanham, MD, September/October 2003. Jackson, Newt, Design, Construction and Maintenance Guide for Porous Asphalt Pavements (IS-131), National Asphalt Pavement Association, Lanham, MD, 2003. MacDonald, Chuck, “Porous Pavements Working in Northern Climates,” Hot Mix Asphalt Technology, National Asphalt Pavement Association, Lanham, MD, July/August 2006. Boardwalk Trail example in narrative taken from Fontaine Blue State Park. Colored Asphalt image credit from Richard’s Paving at richardspaving.com. Pourous asphalt image credit from the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Services. Concrete trail image courtesy of WE Masonry (www.wemasonry.com) Vegetation images courtesy of Flickr user photos. All other images taken by the author and property of the CMR National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters.
Water Harvesting and Bioswales. 33
CMR NWR Interpretive Trail Conceptual Masterplan Design
Perspective A: Looking west while walking on the Airport Road portion of the city trail.
BEFORE
BEFORE Perspective C: Looking south towards the pond while standing on the eastern portion of the site. BEFORE
AFTER AFTER
AFTER Perspective B: Walking on the eastern portion of the property looking north towards Airport Road.
34
Appendix | Before and After Views Perspective D: Looking southwest towards the bison habitat. BEFORE BEFORE
AFTER AFTER
Perspective E: Looking south towards the bison habitat and pond while standing on the viewing deck.
35
Copyright 2009 Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge