Conservation SubdivisionBased on Strategies Proposed by Randall Arendt

Conservation Subdivisions

About this Presentation

Introduces conservation subdivision as one option for managing growthSteps before implementationReviews implementation process

Options for Managing Growth

Option 1: Large minimum lot size

Option 2: Purchase of development rights/conservation

Option 3: Conservation subdivision

Assumptions of Conservation Subdivision Process

Growth will continue.

Communities want to protect open space of natural

and historical significance.

Current subdivision process doesn’t adequately

protect open space

Need a process which is fair and equitable to

landowner and developers

What are Conservation Subdivisions?

Creative grouping of new homes onto part of a development parcel so that the remainder is preserved as open spaceProtects important natural, historical, & cultural resources through a community resource inventoryPart of a regional vision: Creates an interconnected network of protected lands. Attempts to balance growth with protection of resources and community identity

Conventional Subdivision

No attention to off-site impacts and viewshedsLittle regard for social aspects of designRigid and traditional application processMinimal design flexibilityTypically strive for maximum density

Why Conservation Subdivisions?

Balances conservation and developmentEquitable to property owners and community membersPreserves rural qualitiesRespects property owner’s right to developConsiders need for new housingAccommodates newcomers without unduly affecting our communitiesMinimizes residential sprawl

Conservation SubdivisionsBenefits

EnvironmentalSocial

Economical

Environmental

Protects open space and natural featuresReduces pollutionBuffers sensitive areasProtect wildlife habitat and corridorsHelps maintain biodiversity

Social

Common space Establishment of greenway networksNeighborhood interaction

Economic

Reduces infrastructure costs. Quality of lifeReduces need for public acquisition of landsCan streamline review process Home valueProperty value remains consistent (Arendt)Helps minimize sprawl

Steps Before the Conservation Subdivision process

I. Evaluate Current Situation2. Develop a Detailed Resource Inventory3. Update Master Plan4. Update Zoning and Site Plan Regulations

1. Evaluate Current Situation

Map land unprotected and undevelopedMap future development under current zoning Review current ordinances and zoning

2. Develop a Detailed Resource Inventory

Identify all natural and cultural resources including

Wetlands and floodplainsSlopesSoilsSignificant wildlife habitatsWoodlands and vegetationFarmlandHistoric, archaeological featuresViewsGroundwater recharge areas

3. Update Master Plan

VisionGoals, Objectives and PoliciesLand UseConservationAdoption by the community

4. Update Zoning and Site Planning Regulations

Options offering a variety of densities and conservation requirementsDensity zoningConservation design

Arendt’s 4 Step Process

1. Identification of critical areas2. Determine and arrange the number of

houses3. Link houses and roads and paths4. Define individual lots and commonly

held land

1. Identification of critical conservation areas including areas that are undevelopable (wetlands, steep slopes)= Development areas

2. Determine and arrange the number of houses

3. Link houses and roads and paths

4. Define individual lots and commonly held land

Conservation Subdivision

Conventional Subdivision

Results

Implementation

What to aim for:– Protected natural

and historic resources

– Subdued entrances

– Neighborhood feel– Interior open space– Protected

viewsheds

How can you do this right?

Make a commitment Integrate EducateCommunicate and Cultivate

Summary

Potential BenefitsLimitations

For More Information:

Randall Arendt: Growing Greener, 1999.Randall Arendt: Conservation Design for Subdivisions, 1996.Lakes Region Planning Commission103 Maine Street Suite #3Meredith NH 03253-9287279-8171www.lakesrpc.org