(2478,3,'2022-06-23 17:43:30','2022-06-23 17:43:30','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Emergency Water Supply and Storage\" subhead=\"New Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong>What is Emergency Water Supply and Storage? </strong></h2>\n<p>New Jersey receives ample rainfall, and the state’s geology supports the storage of large quantities of groundwater and surface water.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a> However, water conservation and planning for water scarcity when water is plentiful can reduce the risk and the costs associated with increasing population growth, aging water infrastructure, and climate change impacts such as droughts on future water quality and availability. An increase in extreme weather events, such as major hurricanes, thunderstorms, ice storms, and flooding in New Jersey has highlighted the importance of having access to clean and safe water to meet drinking, sanitation and hygiene needs during and after natural disasters, extended power outages, and other emergencies. For example, flooding can overwhelm municipal water and wastewater treatment plants and storm-related power outages can impact plant operations. Flood waters can contaminate local water supplies and private wells with raw sewage and stormwater runoff containing chemicals, debris, and other contaminants that can cause serious illness.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a> While backup generators at municipal water and wastewater treatment plants can prevent power outages and elevating equipment can protect plant operations, individual building owners and operators can also take steps to safeguard water for emergencies.</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_67\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"768\"]<img class=\"wp-image-67 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Emergency-Water-Supply-and-Storage-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Flooding (Source: NJ DEP Flood Control)\" width=\"768\" height=\"498\" /> Figure 1 – Flooding (Source: NJ DEP Flood Control)[/caption]<p>Strategies to safeguard water at the building level include designating back-up power for water pumps, providing on-site water storage, and designing redundant water supply and treatment systems that utilize captured rainwater or recycled wastewater as the primary or backup water supply (see <em>Rain Barrels and Cisterns, and On-site Alternative Water Reuse</em>).</p>\n<h2><strong>How to Provide for Emergency Water Supply and Storage </strong></h2>\n<p>Planning for access to potable water during a power outage or storm-related event, starts with water conservation, and can include reusing water on-site, such as harvested rainwater or recycled greywater for storage and later use during emergencies to cover operations such as toilet flushing, mechanical equipment, and irrigation (see <em>Water-Efficient Landscaping, Indoor Water Conservation, On-site Alternative Water Reuse</em>).</p>\n<p>The specifics depend on whether or not the building utilizes the municipal water system. During a water emergency, a building on municipal water may still have access to clean potable water due to the municipal water and treatment plant’s backup water storage or backup power system.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a> In this situation, planning for emergency water supply and storage requires providing backup power generation to operate water pumps and to distribute water throughout a building (see <em>Energy Storage and Back-Up Power Generation</em>).</p>\n<p>Buildings with deep-well pumps that do not rely on the municipal water supply can utilize energy storage and back-power generation, or hand pumps to power the deep-well pump. Gravity-fed water from an on-site spring or cistern part of a rainwater harvesting system, which includes adequate water storage can provide a redundant or backup water supply to complement public or deep-well water resources. Where there is no option for on-site water replenishment, look to provide emergency water storage that can gravity-feed water to the building, such as rooftop water tanks or water storage with pumps powered by stored energy or off-grid generators.</p>\n<h3><strong>Example</strong></h3>\n<p><a href=\"https://thewatershed.org/visit/\">Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association Center</a></p>\n<p>Rainwater collected from the building’s rooftop supplies water for flushing toilets, reducing municipal potable water, stormwater runoff, and energy used to pump and treat water.</p>\n<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>The benefits of planning for emergency water supply and storage become most apparent during an emergency or disaster. Proper preparations can reduce business closures and avoid health and safety hazards associated with water emergencies. Planning for access to potable water during emergencies can also benefit overall water conservation efforts during normal operations, as alternative solutions and reuse scenarios are considered to utilize and manage water on a site.</p>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>The rising cost over the last decade of water and wastewater services can make minor investments in water conservation strategies and back-up technologies cost-effective based on the savings alone from reduced water bills.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a> Factoring in savings from reduced energy bills further reduces payback periods. As the cost of water storage and backup power generation technologies decline and power outages and water emergencies become more common, the resiliency benefits of reduced business closures, health and safety hazards, and inconvenience from schedule disruptions, can offset the incremental costs. <a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a></p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency</strong></h2>\n<p>Providing for emergency water supply and storage enhances resiliency by utilizing redundant and local water supplies and reducing impacts from droughts and other instances of water scarcity. Ensuring access to potable water during emergencies decreases the reliance and stress on the entire municipal water infrastructure including groundwater pumping, and water and wastewater treatment and distribution, reducing the likelihood of system overload and failure.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a> New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, 2017, New Jersey Water Supply Plan 2017-2022: 484p, <a href=\"http://www.nj.gov/dep/watersupply/wsp.html\">http://www.nj.gov/dep/watersupply/wsp.html</a> (accessed Oct 25, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a> Center for Disease Control and Prevention. 2018. Healthy Water – Water-Related Emergencies and Outbreaks. <a href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/\">https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/</a> (accessed Nov 6, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a> Wilson, Alex. 2015. LEED Pilot Credits on Resilient Design Adopted! <a href=\"http://www.resilientdesign.org/leed-pilot-credits-on-resilient-design-adopted/\">http://www.resilientdesign.org/leed-pilot-credits-on-resilient-design-adopted/</a> (accessed Nov 6, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a> Joseph Bourg. 2016. Water Conservation. Whole Building Design Guide – A Program of the National Institute of Building Science. <a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation\">https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation</a> (accessed Oct 26, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a> DOE. “Smart Grid Investments Improve Grid Reliability, Resilience, and Storm Responses.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20170513121841/https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf\">https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf</a> (accessed May 1, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a> Joseph Bourg. 2016. Water Conservation. Whole Building Design Guide – A Program of the National Institute of Building Science. <a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation\">https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation</a> (accessed Oct 26, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-energy-storage-and-back-up-power-generation/\">Energy Storage and Back-up Power Generation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/\">Indoor Water Conservation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/\">On-site Alternative Water Reuse</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-rain-barrels-and-cisterns/\">Rain Barrels and Cisterns</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-solar-islanding-and-microgrid-ready-solar-pv/\">Solar Islanding and Microgrid-Ready PV</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-water-efficient-landscaping/\">Water-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/\">Center for Disease Control – Healthy Water</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://new.usgbc.org/center-for-resilience\">The Center for Resilience</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.resilientdesign.org\">Resilient Design Institute</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/watersense/commercial-buildings\">US EPA WaterSense for Commercial Buildings</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/greeningepa/water-conservation-epa\">US EPA – Water Conservation at EPA</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation\">Whole Building Design Guide – Water Conservation</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NC Emergency Water Supply and Storage','','inherit','closed','closed','','1539-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:43:30','2022-06-23 17:43:30','',1539,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2478',0,'revision','',0),(2479,3,'2022-06-23 17:45:14','2022-06-23 17:45:14','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)\" subhead=\"New Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong><b>What is Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)?</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) is a form of economic evaluation that compares the costs and savings of alternative building designs and systems over the life cycle of a building. Green building features generally have higher initial costs compared to conventional features but offer operational savings over time through decreased resource use (e.g., energy, water), maintenance, and disposal fees.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> LCCA takes into account the overall costs of purchasing, operating, maintaining, and disposing of a building or building system, which the initial purchase price does not reflect. Comparing the life cycle costs of various options helps determine the most cost-effective choice for a comparable building design or system in terms of function and performance by translating this data into dollar amounts and providing information about how long it takes an investment to pay for itself (e.g., internal rate of return, savings-to-investment ratio, payback period).</p>\n<p>While LCCA’s take into account the life-cycle costs of building designs and systems, a Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) evaluates the environmental impacts of products, services, and systems (see <em><i>Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA)</i></em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> Together, LCCA’s and LCA’s provide the essential components of a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>How to Perform a Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Perform the LCCA early in the project and as part of an integrated design process to allow sufficient time and resources to refine the design and ensure the highest quality product for the lowest cost (see <em><i>Integrated Design Process</i></em>). Depending on project team expertise, hire a consulting service or conduct the LCCA in-house. Project teams should refer to the ASTM standard life-cycle cost method, which covers the costs of initial investment, replacement, operation, maintenance and repair, and disposal.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a></p>\n<p>The first task of an LCCA involves determining the costs and benefits of alternative project options. Next, project teams can conduct several sensitivity analyses that include variations in the <em><i>discount rate, study period or building lifespan, and energy escalation rates.</i></em></p>\n<p><em><i>The discount rate</i></em> is a measure that decreases the value of dollars spent or received in the future, so future costs and returns are worth progressively less in terms of today’s dollars. The interest rate used for discounting is a rate that reflects an investor’s opportunity cost of money over time. The LCCA method converts cash flows to present values by discounting them to a common point in time, usually the base date.</p>\n<p>The US Department of Energy (US DOE) suggests a real discount rate of 3.0%, based on a 12-month average of long-term Treasury bond rates.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a></p>\n<p><em><i>Study period</i></em> or <em><i>building lifespan</i></em> refers to the length of time the LCC analysis covers. The study period for non-residential buildings typically falls between 20 and 40 years and may reflect a shorter period than the actual intended life of the facility.</p>\n<p><em><i>Energy escalation rates</i></em> refer to projected average annual energy price increases obtained either from the supplier or from energy price escalation rates published annually on April 1 by US DOE in <em><i>Energy Price Indices and Discount Factors for Life-Cycle Cost Analysis, Annual Supplement to NIST Handbook 135</i></em>.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a></p>\n<p>There are several online tools for performing an LCCA and links to more information in the <strong><b>Resources </b></strong>section below.</p>\n<h3><strong><b>Example</b></strong></h3>\n<p><a href=\"http://rcgb.rutgers.edu/njmc-observatory-classroom-building-life-cycle-assessment/\">New Jersey Meadowlands Commission: Observatory and Classroom Building LCCA, Lyndhurst, NJ</a>.</p>\n<p>The Rutgers Center for Green Building conducted an LCCA of the Meadowlands Environmental Center, a LEED Platinum building, modeling the building’s metabolic flows, including heating, lighting, ventilation, water, and power consumption, and waste production. The result was a quantification of any added capital investments encountered during construction and commissioning of the LEED-compliant structure, as well as a use-phase evaluation of the economic impacts of adherence to a green building standard.</p>\n<p>Besides the Photovoltaic System (PV), the study results showed that daylight sensors provided the most cost-effective green feature, providing savings under all of the modeled situations as well as the most significant savings compared to other green features. The HVAC system projected savings consistently, although of lower value than the daylight sensors. Insulation provided savings under a majority of circumstances but showed a low return value in all cases. The study noted that the value of SREC’s directly impacts the cost-effectiveness of the photovoltaic (PV) system.</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_551\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1462\"]<img class=\"wp-image-551 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Energy-Modeling-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Three-dimensional model of the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission Center for Environmental &amp; Science Education (Source: Rutgers Center for Green Building).\" width=\"1462\" height=\"560\" /> Figure 1 – Three-dimensional model of the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission Center for Environmental &amp; Science Education (Source: Rutgers Center for Green Building).[/caption]\n<h2><strong><b>Benefits</b></strong></h2>\n<p>LCCA’s can offer environmental and monetary benefits for new construction projects by revealing the most environmentally-friendly and cost-effective solutions for the long run that purchase price alone cannot quantify. Potential benefits include reduced energy, water, and fuel consumption and cost savings on utility bills, maintenance, replacement, and end-of-life disposal costs. While an LCCA cannot remove all uncertainty surrounding a building project, the results equip the design team with the means to identify the optimal balance between green design and economic efficiency.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Costs</b></strong></h2>\n<p>The costs for performing an LCCA depend on the scope and complexity of the building project and on whether in-house expertise or an independent consulting service completes the analysis. Several free online tools and resources are available to help owners and developers perform an initial LCC analysis (see <strong><b>Resources</b></strong>). Costs for performing an LCCA typically include labor costs for data collection, energy modeling (if necessary), LCCA calculations, and the interpretation and reporting of results.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Resiliency</b></strong></h2>\n<p><em>An LCCA can </em>identify and evaluate the costs and benefits of green building strategies that enhance building resiliency. While LCCAs and energy modeling typically use historical weather data, specific, regional, and forward-looking climate data can be used in energy models to inform resilient building design.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> For example, in the NJMC study mentioned above, the team ran an energy model scenario according to low-emissions mid-century predictions of climate change developed by the Northeast Climate Impacts Assessment (NECIA).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\"><sup>[7]</sup></a></p>\n<p>LCCA’s can take into account resiliency objectives. These may include specific design inputs to address increasing heat, more intense precipitation, or rising sea levels<strong><em><b><i>, </i></b></em></strong>including cooling and shading buildings, improving the efficiency of building envelopes, utilizing green roofs and landscape elements, planning for increased failure or reduced efficiency of electrical or mechanical systems, and providing passive solar cooling and ventilation features.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> LCCA’s focused on resilient design can also consider the avoided costs or resiliency benefits of avoided power outages, such as reduced business closures, health, and safety hazards, food spoilage, and inconvenience from schedule disruptions.<sup><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a></sup></p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG). 2016. Building Life-Cycle Cost (BLLC). <a href=\"http://www.wbdg.org/additional-resources/tools/building-life-cycle-cost-blcc\">http://www.wbdg.org/additional-resources/tools/building-life-cycle-cost-blcc</a> (accessed January 30, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Life Cycle Assessments – U.S. Life Cycle Inventory Database. <a href=\"https://www.nrel.gov/lci/assessments.html\">https://www.nrel.gov/lci/assessments.html</a> (accessed January 30, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> ASTM E917-17 Standard Practice for Measuring Life-Cycle Costs of Buildings and Building Systems. <a href=\"https://www.astm.org/Standards/E917.htm\">https://www.astm.org/Standards/E917.htm</a> (accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> This rate for life-cycle cost analyses is valid through March 31, 2019, according to US DOE. <a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/articles/2021-discount-rates\">Current Discount Rates</a> (accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). 2018. Energy Price Indices and Discount Factors for Life-Cycle Cost Analysis – 2018: Annual Supplement to NIST Handbook 135. <a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs\">https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs</a> (accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> NYC Mayor’s Office of Recovery and Resiliency. April 2018. Climate Resiliency Design Guidelines. Version 2.0. Page 4. <a href=\"http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf\">http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf</a> (accessed June 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> Krogmann, U., Minderman, N., Senick, J. and Andrews, C.J. “Life-Cycle Assessment of the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission Center for Environmental and Scientific Education Building.” 2008. Prepared by Rutgers Center for Green Building for New Jersey Meadowland Commission. At <a href=\"http://rcgb.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/LCC-Final-Report-5-21-08.pdf\">http://rcgb.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/LCC-Final-Report-5-21-08.pdf</a>(accessed June 19, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> NYC Mayor’s Office of Recovery and Resiliency. April 2018. Climate Resiliency Design Guidelines. Version 2.0. Page 9-19. <a href=\"http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf\">http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf</a> (accessed June 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> DOE. “Smart Grid Investments Improve Grid Reliability, Resilience, and Storm Responses.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20170513121841/https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf\">https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf</a>(accessed May 1, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/integrated-design-process/\">Integrated Design Process</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-assessment-lca/\">Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.astm.org/Standards/E917.htm\">ASTM E917-17 Standard Practice for Measuring Life-Cycle Costs of Buildings and Building Systems</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.nist.gov/services-resources/software/bees\">Building for Economic and Environmental Software (BEES)</a> – a free online tool developed by NIST for selecting cost-effective and environmentally preferable building products.</li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.gsa.gov/node/81412\">General Service Administration (GSA) Life Cycle Costing</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs\">US DOE Building Life Cycle Cost Programs and Tools</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.rsmeans.com/\">R. S. Means Company – Construction Cost Databases</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://sftool.gov/Explore#workspaces\">The Sustainable Facilities Tool</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.wbdg.org/resources/design-for-maintainability\">Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG): Design for Maintainability</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca\">Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG): Life-Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NC Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)','','inherit','closed','closed','','1092-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:45:14','2022-06-23 17:45:14','',1092,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2479',0,'revision','',0),(2480,3,'2022-06-23 17:45:15','2022-06-23 17:45:15','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"NR Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)\" subhead=\"New Residential\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90.7%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong><b>What is Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)?</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) is a form of economic evaluation that compares the costs and savings of alternative building designs and systems over the life cycle of a building. Green building features generally have higher initial costs compared to conventional features but offer operational savings over time through decreased resource use (e.g., energy, water), maintenance and disposal fees.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a><span> </span>LCCA takes into account the overall costs of purchasing, operating, maintaining, and disposing of a building or building system, which the initial purchase price does not reflect. Comparing the life cycle costs of various options helps determine the most cost-effective choice for a comparable building design or system in terms of function and performance by translating this data into dollar amounts and providing information about how long it takes an investment to pay for itself (e.g., internal rate of return, savings-to-investment ratio, payback period).</p>\n<p>While LCCA’s take into account the life-cycle costs of building designs and systems, a Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) evaluates the environmental impacts of products, services, and systems (see<span> </span><em><i>Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA)</i></em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a><span> </span>Together, LCCA’s and LCA’s provide the essential components of a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>How to Perform a Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Perform the LCCA early in the project and as part of an integrated design process to allow sufficient time and resources to refine the design and ensure the highest quality product for the lowest cost (see<span> </span><em><i>Integrated Design Process</i></em>). Depending on project team expertise, hire a consulting service or conduct the LCCA in-house.</p>\n<p>The first task of an LCCA involves determining the costs and benefits of alternative project options. Cost inputs for an LCCA are often broken down into the following categories:<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Initial Costs—Purchase, Acquisition, Construction Costs</li>\n<li>Fuel Costs</li>\n<li>Operation, Maintenance, and Repair Costs</li>\n<li>Replacement Costs</li>\n<li>Residual Values—Resale or Salvage Values or Disposal Costs</li>\n<li>Finance Charges—Loan Interest Payments</li>\n<li>Non-Monetary Benefits or Costs</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Next, project teams can conduct several sensitivity analyses that include variations in the<span> </span><em><i>discount rate, study period or building lifespan, and energy escalation rates.</i></em></p>\n<p><em><i>The discount rate</i></em><span> </span>is a measure that decreases the value of dollars spent or received in the future, so future costs and returns are worth progressively less in terms of today’s dollars. The interest rate used for discounting is a rate that reflects an investor’s opportunity cost of money over time. The LCCA method converts cash flows to present values by discounting them to a common point in time, usually the base date.</p>\n<p>The US Department of Energy (US DOE) suggests a real discount rate of 3.0%, based on a 12-month average of long-term Treasury bond rates.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a></p>\n<p><em><i>Study period</i></em><span> </span>or<span> </span><em><i>building lifespan</i></em><span> </span>refers to the length of time the LCCA covers.</p>\n<p><em><i>Energy escalation rates</i></em><span> </span>refer to projected average annual energy price increases obtained either from the supplier or from energy price escalation rates published annually on April 1 by US DOE in<span> </span><em><i>Energy Price Indices and Discount Factors for Life-Cycle Cost Analysis, Annual Supplement to NIST Handbook 135</i></em>.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a></p>\n<p>There are several online tools for performing an LCCA and links to more information in the<span> </span><strong><b>Resources<span> </span></b></strong>section below.</p>\n<h3><strong><b>Example</b></strong></h3>\n<p><a href=\"http://rcgb.rutgers.edu/new-jersey-association-of-realtors-njar-green-building-cost-benefit-analysis/\">New Jersey Association of Realtors (NJAR): Green Building Cost-Benefit Analysis</a></p>\n<p>The Rutgers Center for Green Building in partnership with the New Jersey Association of Realtors completed a detailed analysis of the upfront costs, operating savings, payback period, and appraisal and valuation benefits of several residential green building features, including energy-efficient windows, appliances, heating  and cooling systems, ventilation systems, and use of sustainable and healthy materials. The research looked at the costs and benefits of purchasing a green home on a life-cycle basis, from upfront costs through expected resale value. The research aims to help the real estate industry understand the net economic benefits of green home building.</p>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" width=\"100%\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"][caption id=\"attachment_313\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"694\"]<img class=\"wp-image-313 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/NR-LCCA-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"694\" height=\"388\" /> Fig 1. LCCA of residential energy strategies. (Source: Rutgers Center for Green Building)[/caption][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong><b>Benefits</b></strong></h2>\n<p>LCCA’s can offer environmental and monetary benefits for new residential construction projects by revealing the most environmentally-friendly and cost-effective solutions for the long run that purchase price alone cannot quantify. Potential benefits include reduced energy, water, and fuel consumption and cost savings on utility bills, maintenance, replacement, and end-of-life disposal costs. While an LCCA cannot remove all uncertainty surrounding a building project, the results equip the design team with the means to identify the optimal balance between green design and economic efficiency.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Costs</b></strong></h2>\n<p>The costs for performing an LCCA depend on the scope and complexity of the building project and on whether in-house expertise or an independent consulting service completes the analysis. Several free online tools and resources are available to help owners and developers perform an initial LCCA (see<span> </span><strong><b>Resources</b></strong>). Costs for performing an LCCA typically include labor costs for data collection, energy modeling (if necessary), LCCA calculations, and the interpretation and reporting of results.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Resiliency</b></strong></h2>\n<p>An LCCA can identify and evaluate the costs and benefits of green building strategies that enhance building resiliency. While LCCAs and energy modeling typically use historical weather data, specific, regional, and forward-looking climate data can be used in energy models to inform resilient building design.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a></p>\n<p>LCCA’s can take into account resiliency objectives. These may include specific design inputs to address increasing heat, more intense precipitation, or rising sea levels<strong><em><b><i>,<span> </span></i></b></em></strong>including cooling and shading buildings, improving the efficiency of building envelopes, utilizing green roofs and landscape elements, planning for increased failure or reduced efficiency of electrical or mechanical systems, and providing passive solar cooling and ventilation features.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\"><sup>[7]</sup></a><span> </span>LCCA’s focused on resilient design can also consider the avoided costs or resiliency benefits of avoided power outages, such as reduced health and safety hazards, food spoilage, and inconvenience from schedule disruptions and the ability to shelter in place.<sup><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a></sup></p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a><span> </span>Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG). 2016. Building Life-Cycle Cost (BLLC).<span> </span><a href=\"http://www.wbdg.org/additional-resources/tools/building-life-cycle-cost-blcc\">http://www.wbdg.org/additional-resources/tools/building-life-cycle-cost-blcc</a><span> </span>(accessed January 30, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a><span> </span>National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Life Cycle Assessments – U.S. Life Cycle Inventory Database.<span> </span><a href=\"https://www.nrel.gov/lci/assessments.html\">https://www.nrel.gov/lci/assessments.html</a>(accessed January 30, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a><span> </span>Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG). 2016. Life-Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA).<span> </span><a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca\">https://www.wbdg.org/resources/life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca</a><span> </span>(accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a><span> </span>This rate for life-cycle cost analyses is valid through March 31, 2019, according to US DOE.<span> </span><a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/articles/2021-discount-rates\">Current Discount Rates</a><span> </span>(accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a><span> </span>The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). 2018. Energy Price Indices and Discount Factors for Life-Cycle Cost Analysis – 2018: Annual Supplement to NIST Handbook 135.<span> </span><a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs\">https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs</a><span> </span>(accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a><span> </span>NYC Mayor’s Office of Recovery and Resiliency. April 2018. Climate Resiliency Design Guidelines. Version 2.0. Page 4.<span> </span><a href=\"http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf\">http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed June 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\"><sup>[7]</sup></a><span> </span>NYC Mayor’s Office of Recovery and Resiliency. April 2018. Climate Resiliency Design Guidelines. Version 2.0. Page 9-19.<span> </span><a href=\"http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf\">http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed June 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\"><sup>[8]</sup></a><span> </span>DOE. “Smart Grid Investments Improve Grid Reliability, Resilience, and Storm Responses.”<span> </span><a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20170513121841/https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf\">https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed May 1, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-integrated-design-process/\">Integrated Design Process</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-assessment-lca/\">Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.astm.org/Standards/E917.htm\">ASTM E917-17 Standard Practice for Measuring Life-Cycle Costs of Buildings and Building Systems</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.gsa.gov/node/81412\">General Service Administration (GSA) Life Cycle Costing</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs\">US DOE Building Life Cycle Cost Programs and Tools</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.rsmeans.com/\">R. S. Means Company – Construction Cost Databases</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.wbdg.org/resources/design-for-maintainability\">Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG): Design for Maintainability</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca\">Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG): Life-Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NR Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)','','inherit','closed','closed','','1215-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:45:15','2022-06-23 17:45:15','',1215,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2480',0,'revision','',0),(2481,3,'2022-06-23 17:45:16','2022-06-23 17:45:16','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)\" subhead=\"Existing Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong><b>What is Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)?</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) is a form of economic evaluation that compares the costs and savings of alternative building designs and systems over the life cycle of a building. Green building features generally have higher initial costs compared to conventional features but offer operational savings over time through decreased resource use (e.g., energy, water), maintenance, and disposal fees.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> LCCA takes into account the overall costs of purchasing, operating, maintaining, and disposing of a building or building system, which the initial purchase price does not reflect. Comparing the life cycle costs of various options helps to determine the most cost-effective choice for a comparable building design or system in terms of function and performance by translating this data into dollar amounts and providing information about how long it takes an investment to pay for itself (e.g., internal rate of return, savings-to-investment ratio, payback period).  For existing buildings, LCC also compares the costs of not doing something (e.g., replacing windows) by considering any future maintenance and operational costs.</p>\n<p>While LCCA’s take into account the life-cycle costs of building designs and systems, a Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) evaluates the environmental impacts of products, services, and systems (see <em><i>Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA)</i></em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> Together, LCCA’s and LCA’s provide the essential components of a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>How to Perform a Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Perform the LCCA early in the renovation or upgrade project and as part of an integrated design process to allow sufficient time and resources to refine the design and ensure the highest quality product for the lowest cost (see <em><i>Integrated Design Process</i></em>). Depending on project team expertise, hire a consulting service or conduct the LCCA in-house. Project teams should refer to the ASTM standard life-cycle cost method, which covers the costs of initial investment, replacement, operation, maintenance and repair, and disposal.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a></p>\n<p>The first task of an LCCA involves determining the costs and benefits of alternative project options. Next, project teams can conduct several sensitivity analyses that include variations in the <em><i>discount rate, study period or building lifespan, and energy escalation rates.</i></em></p>\n<p><em><i>The discount rate</i></em> is a measure that decreases the value of dollars spent or received in the future, so future costs and returns are worth progressively less in terms of today’s dollars. The interest rate used for discounting is a rate that reflects an investor’s opportunity cost of money over time. The LCCA method converts cash flows to present values by discounting them to a common point in time, usually the base date.</p>\n<p>The US Department of Energy (US DOE) suggests a real discount rate of 3.0%, based on a 12-month average of long-term Treasury bond rates.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a></p>\n<p><em><i>Study period</i></em> or <em><i>building lifespan</i></em> refers to the length of time the LCCA covers. The study period for non-residential buildings typically falls between 20 and 40 years and may reflect a shorter period than the actual intended life of the facility.</p>\n<p><em><i>Energy escalation rates</i></em> refer to projected average annual energy price increases obtained either from the supplier or from energy price escalation rates published annually on April 1 by US DOE in <em><i>Energy Price Indices and Discount Factors for Life-Cycle Cost Analysis, Annual Supplement to NIST Handbook 135</i></em>.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a></p>\n<p>There are several online tools for performing an LCCA and links to more information in the <strong><b>Resources </b></strong>section below.</p>\n<h3><strong><b>Example</b></strong></h3>\n<p><a href=\"http://rcgb.rutgers.edu/njmc-observatory-classroom-building-life-cycle-assessment/\">New Jersey Meadowlands Commission: Observatory and Classroom Building LCCA, Lyndhurst, NJ</a>.</p>\n<p>The Rutgers Center for Green Building conducted an LCCA of the Meadowlands Environmental Center, a LEED Platinum building, modeling the building’s metabolic flows, including heating, lighting, ventilation, water, and power consumption, and waste production. The result was a quantification of any added capital investments encountered during construction and commissioning of the LEED-compliant structure, as well as a use-phase evaluation of the economic impacts of adherence to a green building standard.</p>\n<p>Besides the Photovoltaic System (PV), the study results showed that daylight sensors provided the most cost-effective green feature, providing savings under all of the modeled situations as well as the most significant savings compared to other green features. The HVAC system projected savings consistently, although of lower value than the daylight sensors. Insulation provided savings under a majority of circumstances but showed a low return value in all cases. The study noted that the value of SREC’s directly impacts the cost-effectiveness of the photovoltaic (PV) system.</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_551\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1462\"]<img class=\"wp-image-551 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Energy-Modeling-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Three-dimensional model of the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission Center for Environmental &amp; Science Education (Source: Rutgers Center for Green Building).\" width=\"1462\" height=\"560\" /> Figure 1 – Three-dimensional model of the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission Center for Environmental &amp; Science Education (Source: Rutgers Center for Green Building).[/caption]\n<h2><strong><b>Benefits</b></strong></h2>\n<p>LCCA’s can offer environmental and monetary benefits for existing building upgrades and renovations by revealing the most environmentally-friendly and cost-effective solutions for the long run that purchase price alone cannot quantify. Potential benefits include reduced energy, water, and fuel consumption and cost savings on utility bills, maintenance, replacement, and end-of-life disposal costs. While an LCCA cannot remove all uncertainty surrounding a building project, the results equip the design team with the means to identify the optimal balance between green design and economic efficiency.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Costs</b></strong></h2>\n<p>The costs for performing an LCCA depend on the scope and complexity of the building upgrade and renovation project and on whether in-house expertise or an independent consulting service completes the analysis. Several free online tools and resources are available to help owners and developers perform an initial LCCA (see <strong><b>Resources</b></strong>). Costs for performing an LCCA typically include labor costs for data collection, energy modeling (if necessary), LCCA calculations, and the interpretation and reporting of results.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Resiliency</b></strong></h2>\n<p>LCCA’s can identify and evaluate the costs and benefits of green building strategies that enhance building resiliency. While LCCAs and energy modeling typically use historical weather data, specific, regional, and forward-looking climate data can be used in energy models to inform resilient building design.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> For example, in the NJMC study mentioned above, the team ran an energy model scenario according to low-emissions mid-century predictions of climate change developed by the Northeast Climate Impacts Assessment (NECIA).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\"><sup>[7]</sup></a></p>\n<p>LCCA’s can take into account resiliency objectives. These may include specific design inputs to address increasing heat, more intense precipitation, or rising sea levels<strong><em><b><i>, </i></b></em></strong>including cooling and shading buildings, improving the efficiency of building envelopes, utilizing green roofs and landscape elements, planning for increased failure or reduced efficiency of electrical or mechanical systems, and providing passive solar cooling and ventilation features.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> LCCA’s focused on resilient design can also consider the avoided costs or resiliency benefits of avoided power outages, such as reduced business closures, health, and safety hazards, food spoilage, and inconvenience from schedule disruptions.<sup><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a></sup></p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG). 2016. Building Life-Cycle Cost (BLLC). <a href=\"http://www.wbdg.org/additional-resources/tools/building-life-cycle-cost-blcc\">http://www.wbdg.org/additional-resources/tools/building-life-cycle-cost-blcc</a> (accessed January 30, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Life Cycle Assessments – U.S. Life Cycle Inventory Database. <a href=\"https://www.nrel.gov/lci/assessments.html\">https://www.nrel.gov/lci/assessments.html</a> (accessed January 30, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> ASTM E917-17 Standard Practice for Measuring Life-Cycle Costs of Buildings and Building Systems. <a href=\"https://www.astm.org/Standards/E917.htm\">https://www.astm.org/Standards/E917.htm</a> (accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> This rate for life-cycle cost analyses is valid through March 31, 2019, according to US DOE. <a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/articles/2021-discount-rates\">Current Discount Rates</a> (accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). 2018. Energy Price Indices and Discount Factors for Life-Cycle Cost Analysis – 2018: Annual Supplement to NIST Handbook 135. <a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs\">https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs</a> (accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> NYC Mayor’s Office of Recovery and Resiliency. April 2018. Climate Resiliency Design Guidelines. Version 2.0. Page 4. <a href=\"http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf\">http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf</a> (accessed June 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> Krogmann, U., Minderman, N., Senick, J. and Andrews, C.J. “Life-Cycle Assessment of the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission Center for Environmental and Scientific Education Building.” 2008. Prepared by Rutgers Center for Green Building for New Jersey Meadowland Commission. At <a href=\"http://rcgb.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/LCC-Final-Report-5-21-08.pdf\">http://rcgb.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/LCC-Final-Report-5-21-08.pdf</a> (accessed June 19, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> NYC Mayor’s Office of Recovery and Resiliency. April 2018. Climate Resiliency Design Guidelines. Version 2.0. Page 9-19. <a href=\"http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf\">http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf</a> (accessed June 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> DOE. “Smart Grid Investments Improve Grid Reliability, Resilience, and Storm Responses.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20170513121841/https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf\">https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf</a> (accessed May 1, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-integrated-design-process/\">Integrated Design Process</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-assessment-lca/\">Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.astm.org/Standards/E917.htm\">ASTM E917-17 Standard Practice for Measuring Life-Cycle Costs of Buildings and Building Systems</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.nist.gov/services-resources/software/bees\">Building for Economic and Environmental Software (BEES)</a> – a free online tool developed by NIST for selecting cost-effective and environmentally preferable building products.</li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.gsa.gov/node/81412\">General Service Administration (GSA) Life Cycle Costing</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs\">US DOE Building Life Cycle Cost Programs and Tools</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.rsmeans.com\">R. S. Means Company – Construction Cost Databases</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://sftool.gov/Explore#workspaces\">The Sustainable Facilities Tool</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.wbdg.org/resources/design-for-maintainability\">Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG): Design for Maintainability</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca\">Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG): Life-Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','EC Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)','','inherit','closed','closed','','1840-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:45:16','2022-06-23 17:45:16','',1840,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2481',0,'revision','',0),(2482,3,'2022-06-23 17:47:55','2022-06-23 17:47:55','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)\" subhead=\"New Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong><b>What is Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)?</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) is a form of economic evaluation that compares the costs and savings of alternative building designs and systems over the life cycle of a building. Green building features generally have higher initial costs compared to conventional features but offer operational savings over time through decreased resource use (e.g., energy, water), maintenance, and disposal fees.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> LCCA takes into account the overall costs of purchasing, operating, maintaining, and disposing of a building or building system, which the initial purchase price does not reflect. Comparing the life cycle costs of various options helps determine the most cost-effective choice for a comparable building design or system in terms of function and performance by translating this data into dollar amounts and providing information about how long it takes an investment to pay for itself (e.g., internal rate of return, savings-to-investment ratio, payback period).</p>\n<p>While LCCA’s take into account the life-cycle costs of building designs and systems, a Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) evaluates the environmental impacts of products, services, and systems (see <em><i>Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA)</i></em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> Together, LCCA’s and LCA’s provide the essential components of a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>How to Perform a Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Perform the LCCA early in the project and as part of an integrated design process to allow sufficient time and resources to refine the design and ensure the highest quality product for the lowest cost (see <em><i>Integrated Design Process</i></em>). Depending on project team expertise, hire a consulting service or conduct the LCCA in-house. Project teams should refer to the ASTM standard life-cycle cost method, which covers the costs of initial investment, replacement, operation, maintenance and repair, and disposal.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a></p>\n<p>The first task of an LCCA involves determining the costs and benefits of alternative project options. Next, project teams can conduct several sensitivity analyses that include variations in the <em><i>discount rate, study period or building lifespan, and energy escalation rates.</i></em></p>\n<p><em><i>The discount rate</i></em> is a measure that decreases the value of dollars spent or received in the future, so future costs and returns are worth progressively less in terms of today’s dollars. The interest rate used for discounting is a rate that reflects an investor’s opportunity cost of money over time. The LCCA method converts cash flows to present values by discounting them to a common point in time, usually the base date.</p>\n<p>The US Department of Energy (US DOE) suggests a real discount rate of 3.0%, based on a 12-month average of long-term Treasury bond rates.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a></p>\n<p><em><i>Study period</i></em> or <em><i>building lifespan</i></em> refers to the length of time the LCC analysis covers. The study period for non-residential buildings typically falls between 20 and 40 years and may reflect a shorter period than the actual intended life of the facility.</p>\n<p><em><i>Energy escalation rates</i></em> refer to projected average annual energy price increases obtained either from the supplier or from energy price escalation rates published annually on April 1 by US DOE in <em><i>Energy Price Indices and Discount Factors for Life-Cycle Cost Analysis, Annual Supplement to NIST Handbook 135</i></em>.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a></p>\n<p>There are several online tools for performing an LCCA and links to more information in the <strong><b>Resources </b></strong>section below.</p>\n<h3><strong><b>Example</b></strong></h3>\n<p><a href=\"http://rcgb.rutgers.edu/njmc-observatory-classroom-building-life-cycle-assessment/\">New Jersey Meadowlands Commission: Observatory and Classroom Building LCCA, Lyndhurst, NJ</a>.</p>\n<p>The Rutgers Center for Green Building conducted an LCCA of the Meadowlands Environmental Center, a LEED Platinum building, modeling the building’s metabolic flows, including heating, lighting, ventilation, water, and power consumption, and waste production. The result was a quantification of any added capital investments encountered during construction and commissioning of the LEED-compliant structure, as well as a use-phase evaluation of the economic impacts of adherence to a green building standard.</p>\n<p>Besides the Photovoltaic System (PV), the study results showed that daylight sensors provided the most cost-effective green feature, providing savings under all of the modeled situations as well as the most significant savings compared to other green features. The HVAC system projected savings consistently, although of lower value than the daylight sensors. Insulation provided savings under a majority of circumstances but showed a low return value in all cases. The study noted that the value of SREC’s directly impacts the cost-effectiveness of the photovoltaic (PV) system.</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_551\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1462\"]<img class=\"wp-image-551 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Energy-Modeling-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Three-dimensional model of the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission Center for Environmental &amp; Science Education (Source: Rutgers Center for Green Building).\" width=\"1462\" height=\"560\" /> Figure 1 – Three-dimensional model of the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission Center for Environmental &amp; Science Education (Source: Rutgers Center for Green Building).[/caption]\n<h2><strong><b>Benefits</b></strong></h2>\n<p>LCCA’s can offer environmental and monetary benefits for new construction projects by revealing the most environmentally-friendly and cost-effective solutions for the long run that purchase price alone cannot quantify. Potential benefits include reduced energy, water, and fuel consumption and cost savings on utility bills, maintenance, replacement, and end-of-life disposal costs. While an LCCA cannot remove all uncertainty surrounding a building project, the results equip the design team with the means to identify the optimal balance between green design and economic efficiency.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Costs</b></strong></h2>\n<p>The costs for performing an LCCA depend on the scope and complexity of the building project and on whether in-house expertise or an independent consulting service completes the analysis. Several free online tools and resources are available to help owners and developers perform an initial LCC analysis (see <strong><b>Resources</b></strong>). Costs for performing an LCCA typically include labor costs for data collection, energy modeling (if necessary), LCCA calculations, and the interpretation and reporting of results.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Resiliency</b></strong></h2>\n<p><em>An LCCA can </em>identify and evaluate the costs and benefits of green building strategies that enhance building resiliency. While LCCAs and energy modeling typically use historical weather data, specific, regional, and forward-looking climate data can be used in energy models to inform resilient building design.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> For example, in the NJMC study mentioned above, the team ran an energy model scenario according to low-emissions mid-century predictions of climate change developed by the Northeast Climate Impacts Assessment (NECIA).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\"><sup>[7]</sup></a></p>\n<p>LCCA’s can take into account resiliency objectives. These may include specific design inputs to address increasing heat, more intense precipitation, or rising sea levels<strong><em><b><i>, </i></b></em></strong>including cooling and shading buildings, improving the efficiency of building envelopes, utilizing green roofs and landscape elements, planning for increased failure or reduced efficiency of electrical or mechanical systems, and providing passive solar cooling and ventilation features.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> LCCA’s focused on resilient design can also consider the avoided costs or resiliency benefits of avoided power outages, such as reduced business closures, health, and safety hazards, food spoilage, and inconvenience from schedule disruptions.<sup><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a></sup></p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG). 2016. Building Life-Cycle Cost (BLLC). <a href=\"http://www.wbdg.org/additional-resources/tools/building-life-cycle-cost-blcc\">http://www.wbdg.org/additional-resources/tools/building-life-cycle-cost-blcc</a> (accessed January 30, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Life Cycle Assessments – U.S. Life Cycle Inventory Database. <a href=\"https://www.nrel.gov/lci/assessments.html\">https://www.nrel.gov/lci/assessments.html</a> (accessed January 30, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> ASTM E917-17 Standard Practice for Measuring Life-Cycle Costs of Buildings and Building Systems. <a href=\"https://www.astm.org/Standards/E917.htm\">https://www.astm.org/Standards/E917.htm</a> (accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> This rate for life-cycle cost analyses is valid through March 31, 2019, according to US DOE. <a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/articles/2021-discount-rates\">Current Discount Rates</a> (accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). 2018. Energy Price Indices and Discount Factors for Life-Cycle Cost Analysis – 2018: Annual Supplement to NIST Handbook 135. <a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs\">https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs</a> (accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> NYC Mayor’s Office of Recovery and Resiliency. April 2018. Climate Resiliency Design Guidelines. Version 2.0. Page 4. <a href=\"http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf\">http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf</a> (accessed June 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> Krogmann, U., Minderman, N., Senick, J. and Andrews, C.J. “Life-Cycle Assessment of the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission Center for Environmental and Scientific Education Building.” 2008. Prepared by Rutgers Center for Green Building for New Jersey Meadowland Commission. At <a href=\"http://rcgb.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/LCC-Final-Report-5-21-08.pdf\">http://rcgb.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/LCC-Final-Report-5-21-08.pdf</a>(accessed June 19, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> NYC Mayor’s Office of Recovery and Resiliency. April 2018. Climate Resiliency Design Guidelines. Version 2.0. Page 9-19. <a href=\"http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf\">http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf</a> (accessed June 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-cost-analysis/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> DOE. “Smart Grid Investments Improve Grid Reliability, Resilience, and Storm Responses.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20170513121841/https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf\">https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf</a>(accessed May 1, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/integrated-design-process/\">Integrated Design Process</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-life-cycle-assessment-lca/\">Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.astm.org/Standards/E917.htm\">ASTM E917-17 Standard Practice for Measuring Life-Cycle Costs of Buildings and Building Systems</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.nist.gov/services-resources/software/bees\">Building for Economic and Environmental Software (BEES)</a> – a free online tool developed by NIST for selecting cost-effective and environmentally preferable building products.</li>\n<li><a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210508120444/https://www.gsa.gov/node/81412\">General Service Administration (GSA) Life Cycle Costing</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs\">US DOE Building Life Cycle Cost Programs and Tools</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.rsmeans.com/\">R. S. Means Company – Construction Cost Databases</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://sftool.gov/Explore#workspaces\">The Sustainable Facilities Tool</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.wbdg.org/resources/design-for-maintainability\">Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG): Design for Maintainability</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca\">Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG): Life-Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NC Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)','','inherit','closed','closed','','1092-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:47:55','2022-06-23 17:47:55','',1092,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2482',0,'revision','',0),(2483,3,'2022-06-23 17:47:56','2022-06-23 17:47:56','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"NR Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)\" subhead=\"New Residential\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90.7%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong><b>What is Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)?</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) is a form of economic evaluation that compares the costs and savings of alternative building designs and systems over the life cycle of a building. Green building features generally have higher initial costs compared to conventional features but offer operational savings over time through decreased resource use (e.g., energy, water), maintenance and disposal fees.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a><span> </span>LCCA takes into account the overall costs of purchasing, operating, maintaining, and disposing of a building or building system, which the initial purchase price does not reflect. Comparing the life cycle costs of various options helps determine the most cost-effective choice for a comparable building design or system in terms of function and performance by translating this data into dollar amounts and providing information about how long it takes an investment to pay for itself (e.g., internal rate of return, savings-to-investment ratio, payback period).</p>\n<p>While LCCA’s take into account the life-cycle costs of building designs and systems, a Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) evaluates the environmental impacts of products, services, and systems (see<span> </span><em><i>Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA)</i></em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a><span> </span>Together, LCCA’s and LCA’s provide the essential components of a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>How to Perform a Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Perform the LCCA early in the project and as part of an integrated design process to allow sufficient time and resources to refine the design and ensure the highest quality product for the lowest cost (see<span> </span><em><i>Integrated Design Process</i></em>). Depending on project team expertise, hire a consulting service or conduct the LCCA in-house.</p>\n<p>The first task of an LCCA involves determining the costs and benefits of alternative project options. Cost inputs for an LCCA are often broken down into the following categories:<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Initial Costs—Purchase, Acquisition, Construction Costs</li>\n<li>Fuel Costs</li>\n<li>Operation, Maintenance, and Repair Costs</li>\n<li>Replacement Costs</li>\n<li>Residual Values—Resale or Salvage Values or Disposal Costs</li>\n<li>Finance Charges—Loan Interest Payments</li>\n<li>Non-Monetary Benefits or Costs</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Next, project teams can conduct several sensitivity analyses that include variations in the<span> </span><em><i>discount rate, study period or building lifespan, and energy escalation rates.</i></em></p>\n<p><em><i>The discount rate</i></em><span> </span>is a measure that decreases the value of dollars spent or received in the future, so future costs and returns are worth progressively less in terms of today’s dollars. The interest rate used for discounting is a rate that reflects an investor’s opportunity cost of money over time. The LCCA method converts cash flows to present values by discounting them to a common point in time, usually the base date.</p>\n<p>The US Department of Energy (US DOE) suggests a real discount rate of 3.0%, based on a 12-month average of long-term Treasury bond rates.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a></p>\n<p><em><i>Study period</i></em><span> </span>or<span> </span><em><i>building lifespan</i></em><span> </span>refers to the length of time the LCCA covers.</p>\n<p><em><i>Energy escalation rates</i></em><span> </span>refer to projected average annual energy price increases obtained either from the supplier or from energy price escalation rates published annually on April 1 by US DOE in<span> </span><em><i>Energy Price Indices and Discount Factors for Life-Cycle Cost Analysis, Annual Supplement to NIST Handbook 135</i></em>.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a></p>\n<p>There are several online tools for performing an LCCA and links to more information in the<span> </span><strong><b>Resources<span> </span></b></strong>section below.</p>\n<h3><strong><b>Example</b></strong></h3>\n<p><a href=\"http://rcgb.rutgers.edu/new-jersey-association-of-realtors-njar-green-building-cost-benefit-analysis/\">New Jersey Association of Realtors (NJAR): Green Building Cost-Benefit Analysis</a></p>\n<p>The Rutgers Center for Green Building in partnership with the New Jersey Association of Realtors completed a detailed analysis of the upfront costs, operating savings, payback period, and appraisal and valuation benefits of several residential green building features, including energy-efficient windows, appliances, heating  and cooling systems, ventilation systems, and use of sustainable and healthy materials. The research looked at the costs and benefits of purchasing a green home on a life-cycle basis, from upfront costs through expected resale value. The research aims to help the real estate industry understand the net economic benefits of green home building.</p>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" width=\"100%\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"][caption id=\"attachment_313\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"694\"]<img class=\"wp-image-313 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/NR-LCCA-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"694\" height=\"388\" /> Fig 1. LCCA of residential energy strategies. (Source: Rutgers Center for Green Building)[/caption][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong><b>Benefits</b></strong></h2>\n<p>LCCA’s can offer environmental and monetary benefits for new residential construction projects by revealing the most environmentally-friendly and cost-effective solutions for the long run that purchase price alone cannot quantify. Potential benefits include reduced energy, water, and fuel consumption and cost savings on utility bills, maintenance, replacement, and end-of-life disposal costs. While an LCCA cannot remove all uncertainty surrounding a building project, the results equip the design team with the means to identify the optimal balance between green design and economic efficiency.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Costs</b></strong></h2>\n<p>The costs for performing an LCCA depend on the scope and complexity of the building project and on whether in-house expertise or an independent consulting service completes the analysis. Several free online tools and resources are available to help owners and developers perform an initial LCCA (see<span> </span><strong><b>Resources</b></strong>). Costs for performing an LCCA typically include labor costs for data collection, energy modeling (if necessary), LCCA calculations, and the interpretation and reporting of results.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Resiliency</b></strong></h2>\n<p>An LCCA can identify and evaluate the costs and benefits of green building strategies that enhance building resiliency. While LCCAs and energy modeling typically use historical weather data, specific, regional, and forward-looking climate data can be used in energy models to inform resilient building design.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a></p>\n<p>LCCA’s can take into account resiliency objectives. These may include specific design inputs to address increasing heat, more intense precipitation, or rising sea levels<strong><em><b><i>,<span> </span></i></b></em></strong>including cooling and shading buildings, improving the efficiency of building envelopes, utilizing green roofs and landscape elements, planning for increased failure or reduced efficiency of electrical or mechanical systems, and providing passive solar cooling and ventilation features.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\"><sup>[7]</sup></a><span> </span>LCCA’s focused on resilient design can also consider the avoided costs or resiliency benefits of avoided power outages, such as reduced health and safety hazards, food spoilage, and inconvenience from schedule disruptions and the ability to shelter in place.<sup><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a></sup></p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a><span> </span>Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG). 2016. Building Life-Cycle Cost (BLLC).<span> </span><a href=\"http://www.wbdg.org/additional-resources/tools/building-life-cycle-cost-blcc\">http://www.wbdg.org/additional-resources/tools/building-life-cycle-cost-blcc</a><span> </span>(accessed January 30, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a><span> </span>National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Life Cycle Assessments – U.S. Life Cycle Inventory Database.<span> </span><a href=\"https://www.nrel.gov/lci/assessments.html\">https://www.nrel.gov/lci/assessments.html</a>(accessed January 30, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a><span> </span>Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG). 2016. Life-Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA).<span> </span><a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca\">https://www.wbdg.org/resources/life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca</a><span> </span>(accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a><span> </span>This rate for life-cycle cost analyses is valid through March 31, 2019, according to US DOE.<span> </span><a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/articles/2021-discount-rates\">Current Discount Rates</a><span> </span>(accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a><span> </span>The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). 2018. Energy Price Indices and Discount Factors for Life-Cycle Cost Analysis – 2018: Annual Supplement to NIST Handbook 135.<span> </span><a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs\">https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs</a><span> </span>(accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a><span> </span>NYC Mayor’s Office of Recovery and Resiliency. April 2018. Climate Resiliency Design Guidelines. Version 2.0. Page 4.<span> </span><a href=\"http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf\">http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed June 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\"><sup>[7]</sup></a><span> </span>NYC Mayor’s Office of Recovery and Resiliency. April 2018. Climate Resiliency Design Guidelines. Version 2.0. Page 9-19.<span> </span><a href=\"http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf\">http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed June 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\"><sup>[8]</sup></a><span> </span>DOE. “Smart Grid Investments Improve Grid Reliability, Resilience, and Storm Responses.”<span> </span><a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20170513121841/https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf\">https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed May 1, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-integrated-design-process/\">Integrated Design Process</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-life-cycle-assessment-lca/\">Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.astm.org/Standards/E917.htm\">ASTM E917-17 Standard Practice for Measuring Life-Cycle Costs of Buildings and Building Systems</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210508120444/https://www.gsa.gov/node/81412\">General Service Administration (GSA) Life Cycle Costing</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs\">US DOE Building Life Cycle Cost Programs and Tools</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.rsmeans.com/\">R. S. Means Company – Construction Cost Databases</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.wbdg.org/resources/design-for-maintainability\">Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG): Design for Maintainability</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca\">Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG): Life-Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NR Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)','','inherit','closed','closed','','1215-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:47:56','2022-06-23 17:47:56','',1215,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2483',0,'revision','',0),(2484,3,'2022-06-23 17:47:57','2022-06-23 17:47:57','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)\" subhead=\"Existing Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong><b>What is Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)?</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) is a form of economic evaluation that compares the costs and savings of alternative building designs and systems over the life cycle of a building. Green building features generally have higher initial costs compared to conventional features but offer operational savings over time through decreased resource use (e.g., energy, water), maintenance, and disposal fees.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> LCCA takes into account the overall costs of purchasing, operating, maintaining, and disposing of a building or building system, which the initial purchase price does not reflect. Comparing the life cycle costs of various options helps to determine the most cost-effective choice for a comparable building design or system in terms of function and performance by translating this data into dollar amounts and providing information about how long it takes an investment to pay for itself (e.g., internal rate of return, savings-to-investment ratio, payback period).  For existing buildings, LCC also compares the costs of not doing something (e.g., replacing windows) by considering any future maintenance and operational costs.</p>\n<p>While LCCA’s take into account the life-cycle costs of building designs and systems, a Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA) evaluates the environmental impacts of products, services, and systems (see <em><i>Life-Cycle Assessment (LCA)</i></em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> Together, LCCA’s and LCA’s provide the essential components of a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>How to Perform a Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Perform the LCCA early in the renovation or upgrade project and as part of an integrated design process to allow sufficient time and resources to refine the design and ensure the highest quality product for the lowest cost (see <em><i>Integrated Design Process</i></em>). Depending on project team expertise, hire a consulting service or conduct the LCCA in-house. Project teams should refer to the ASTM standard life-cycle cost method, which covers the costs of initial investment, replacement, operation, maintenance and repair, and disposal.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a></p>\n<p>The first task of an LCCA involves determining the costs and benefits of alternative project options. Next, project teams can conduct several sensitivity analyses that include variations in the <em><i>discount rate, study period or building lifespan, and energy escalation rates.</i></em></p>\n<p><em><i>The discount rate</i></em> is a measure that decreases the value of dollars spent or received in the future, so future costs and returns are worth progressively less in terms of today’s dollars. The interest rate used for discounting is a rate that reflects an investor’s opportunity cost of money over time. The LCCA method converts cash flows to present values by discounting them to a common point in time, usually the base date.</p>\n<p>The US Department of Energy (US DOE) suggests a real discount rate of 3.0%, based on a 12-month average of long-term Treasury bond rates.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a></p>\n<p><em><i>Study period</i></em> or <em><i>building lifespan</i></em> refers to the length of time the LCCA covers. The study period for non-residential buildings typically falls between 20 and 40 years and may reflect a shorter period than the actual intended life of the facility.</p>\n<p><em><i>Energy escalation rates</i></em> refer to projected average annual energy price increases obtained either from the supplier or from energy price escalation rates published annually on April 1 by US DOE in <em><i>Energy Price Indices and Discount Factors for Life-Cycle Cost Analysis, Annual Supplement to NIST Handbook 135</i></em>.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a></p>\n<p>There are several online tools for performing an LCCA and links to more information in the <strong><b>Resources </b></strong>section below.</p>\n<h3><strong><b>Example</b></strong></h3>\n<p><a href=\"http://rcgb.rutgers.edu/njmc-observatory-classroom-building-life-cycle-assessment/\">New Jersey Meadowlands Commission: Observatory and Classroom Building LCCA, Lyndhurst, NJ</a>.</p>\n<p>The Rutgers Center for Green Building conducted an LCCA of the Meadowlands Environmental Center, a LEED Platinum building, modeling the building’s metabolic flows, including heating, lighting, ventilation, water, and power consumption, and waste production. The result was a quantification of any added capital investments encountered during construction and commissioning of the LEED-compliant structure, as well as a use-phase evaluation of the economic impacts of adherence to a green building standard.</p>\n<p>Besides the Photovoltaic System (PV), the study results showed that daylight sensors provided the most cost-effective green feature, providing savings under all of the modeled situations as well as the most significant savings compared to other green features. The HVAC system projected savings consistently, although of lower value than the daylight sensors. Insulation provided savings under a majority of circumstances but showed a low return value in all cases. The study noted that the value of SREC’s directly impacts the cost-effectiveness of the photovoltaic (PV) system.</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_551\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"1462\"]<img class=\"wp-image-551 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Energy-Modeling-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Three-dimensional model of the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission Center for Environmental &amp; Science Education (Source: Rutgers Center for Green Building).\" width=\"1462\" height=\"560\" /> Figure 1 – Three-dimensional model of the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission Center for Environmental &amp; Science Education (Source: Rutgers Center for Green Building).[/caption]\n<h2><strong><b>Benefits</b></strong></h2>\n<p>LCCA’s can offer environmental and monetary benefits for existing building upgrades and renovations by revealing the most environmentally-friendly and cost-effective solutions for the long run that purchase price alone cannot quantify. Potential benefits include reduced energy, water, and fuel consumption and cost savings on utility bills, maintenance, replacement, and end-of-life disposal costs. While an LCCA cannot remove all uncertainty surrounding a building project, the results equip the design team with the means to identify the optimal balance between green design and economic efficiency.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Costs</b></strong></h2>\n<p>The costs for performing an LCCA depend on the scope and complexity of the building upgrade and renovation project and on whether in-house expertise or an independent consulting service completes the analysis. Several free online tools and resources are available to help owners and developers perform an initial LCCA (see <strong><b>Resources</b></strong>). Costs for performing an LCCA typically include labor costs for data collection, energy modeling (if necessary), LCCA calculations, and the interpretation and reporting of results.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Resiliency</b></strong></h2>\n<p>LCCA’s can identify and evaluate the costs and benefits of green building strategies that enhance building resiliency. While LCCAs and energy modeling typically use historical weather data, specific, regional, and forward-looking climate data can be used in energy models to inform resilient building design.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> For example, in the NJMC study mentioned above, the team ran an energy model scenario according to low-emissions mid-century predictions of climate change developed by the Northeast Climate Impacts Assessment (NECIA).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\"><sup>[7]</sup></a></p>\n<p>LCCA’s can take into account resiliency objectives. These may include specific design inputs to address increasing heat, more intense precipitation, or rising sea levels<strong><em><b><i>, </i></b></em></strong>including cooling and shading buildings, improving the efficiency of building envelopes, utilizing green roofs and landscape elements, planning for increased failure or reduced efficiency of electrical or mechanical systems, and providing passive solar cooling and ventilation features.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> LCCA’s focused on resilient design can also consider the avoided costs or resiliency benefits of avoided power outages, such as reduced business closures, health, and safety hazards, food spoilage, and inconvenience from schedule disruptions.<sup><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a></sup></p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG). 2016. Building Life-Cycle Cost (BLLC). <a href=\"http://www.wbdg.org/additional-resources/tools/building-life-cycle-cost-blcc\">http://www.wbdg.org/additional-resources/tools/building-life-cycle-cost-blcc</a> (accessed January 30, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Life Cycle Assessments – U.S. Life Cycle Inventory Database. <a href=\"https://www.nrel.gov/lci/assessments.html\">https://www.nrel.gov/lci/assessments.html</a> (accessed January 30, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> ASTM E917-17 Standard Practice for Measuring Life-Cycle Costs of Buildings and Building Systems. <a href=\"https://www.astm.org/Standards/E917.htm\">https://www.astm.org/Standards/E917.htm</a> (accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> This rate for life-cycle cost analyses is valid through March 31, 2019, according to US DOE. <a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/articles/2021-discount-rates\">Current Discount Rates</a> (accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). 2018. Energy Price Indices and Discount Factors for Life-Cycle Cost Analysis – 2018: Annual Supplement to NIST Handbook 135. <a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs\">https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs</a> (accessed January 27, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> NYC Mayor’s Office of Recovery and Resiliency. April 2018. Climate Resiliency Design Guidelines. Version 2.0. Page 4. <a href=\"http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf\">http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf</a> (accessed June 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> Krogmann, U., Minderman, N., Senick, J. and Andrews, C.J. “Life-Cycle Assessment of the New Jersey Meadowlands Commission Center for Environmental and Scientific Education Building.” 2008. Prepared by Rutgers Center for Green Building for New Jersey Meadowland Commission. At <a href=\"http://rcgb.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/LCC-Final-Report-5-21-08.pdf\">http://rcgb.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/LCC-Final-Report-5-21-08.pdf</a> (accessed June 19, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> NYC Mayor’s Office of Recovery and Resiliency. April 2018. Climate Resiliency Design Guidelines. Version 2.0. Page 9-19. <a href=\"http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf\">http://www1.nyc.gov/assets/orr/pdf/NYC_Climate_Resiliency_Design_Guidelines_v2-0.pdf</a> (accessed June 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-costs-analysis-lcca/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> DOE. “Smart Grid Investments Improve Grid Reliability, Resilience, and Storm Responses.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20170513121841/https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf\">https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf</a> (accessed May 1, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-integrated-design-process/\">Integrated Design Process</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-life-cycle-assessment-lca/\">Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.astm.org/Standards/E917.htm\">ASTM E917-17 Standard Practice for Measuring Life-Cycle Costs of Buildings and Building Systems</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.nist.gov/services-resources/software/bees\">Building for Economic and Environmental Software (BEES)</a> – a free online tool developed by NIST for selecting cost-effective and environmentally preferable building products.</li>\n<li><a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210508120444/https://www.gsa.gov/node/81412\">General Service Administration (GSA) Life Cycle Costing</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/building-life-cycle-cost-programs\">US DOE Building Life Cycle Cost Programs and Tools</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.rsmeans.com\">R. S. Means Company – Construction Cost Databases</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://sftool.gov/Explore#workspaces\">The Sustainable Facilities Tool</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.wbdg.org/resources/design-for-maintainability\">Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG): Design for Maintainability</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/life-cycle-cost-analysis-lcca\">Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG): Life-Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','EC Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA)','','inherit','closed','closed','','1840-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:47:57','2022-06-23 17:47:57','',1840,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2484',0,'revision','',0),(2485,3,'2022-06-23 17:48:22','2022-06-23 17:48:22','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Alternative Transportation\" subhead=\"New Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2><strong><b>What is Alternative Transportation and Transit Oriented Development (TOD)?</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Alternative transportation discourages dependence on the personal automobile and encourages public transportation options such as carpooling, vanpooling, busing, walking, and cycling.</p>\n<p>Telecommuting, informal transit options, compressed workweeks, and alternative fuel vehicles such as plug-in electric vehicles (EVs) also help reduce the number of greenhouse gases produced by single occupancy vehicles.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> Commuting to and from an average office building built to modern energy codes consumes thirty percent more energy compared to the energy the building itself consumes.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> The location of buildings and how people get to them are important factors to consider in a building’s overall environmental impact. Transit Oriented Development (TOD) concentrates development around transit stations, such as train, light rail, and bus stations, and other amenities to create places for people to live, work, and play without requiring the use of a car.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a></p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\"></a></p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_543\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"976\"]<img class=\"wp-image-543 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/NC_Alt-Transport-and-TOD_1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (Source: Flickr).\" width=\"976\" height=\"696\" /> Figure 1 – Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (Source: Flickr).[/caption]\n<h2><strong><b>How to Incorporate Alternative Transportation and TOD</b></strong></h2>\n<p>There are several alternative transportation strategies to consider when developing a new building project that can also help to earn your project LEEDv4 credits.</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Proximity to existing public transportation, pedestrian, and bicycle networks and establishing a shuttle service if beyond a short walk away.</li>\n<li>Proximity to existing infrastructure, services and economic activity such as stores, schools, offices, and parks.</li>\n<li>Minimizing on-site parking and providing bicycle changing facilities and storage.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a></li>\n<li>Providing covered areas for people awaiting carpool/vanpool rides and drop-off/pick-up zones for vehicles.</li>\n<li>Providing facilities to encourage energy-efficient vehicle use, such as two-way electric plug-in charging stations that enable EVs to both draw electricity from and supply electricity to the grid, and liquid or gas alternative fueling facilities or a battery switching station.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Many local programs assist with alternative transportation options such as the <a href=\"http://www.hudsontma.org/index.php?page=ridesharecarpoo&amp;option=com_content&amp;task=view&amp;id=44&amp;cat_id=18&amp;Itemid=54\">Hudson County Transportation Management Authority</a> that offers rideshare, carpool, and vanpool services as well as other useful information for commuters.</p>\n<p>Businesses and organizations can implement telecommuting policies that contribute to sustainable workplace practices by allowing employees to communicate via telephone and computers to accomplish tasks that traditionally occur in central office spaces, reducing traffic congestion and strain on transportation systems, fuel consumption, and associated emissions and air quality issues.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a></p>\n<p>TOD begins with site selection near transit hubs. Consider local regulations and interest in transit hub development to reduce delays and conflict. Identify special zoning and permit systems designed to expedite efficient redevelopment of urban centers.</p>\n<p>The New Jersey Department of Transportation and New Jersey Transit leads a multi-agency partnership known as the <a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/community/village/\">Transit Village Initiative</a> that encourages pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods and community revitalization. This program aims to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and promote growth in areas where infrastructure and public transit already exist.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a></p>\n<h3><strong><b>Examples</b></strong></h3>\n<p><a href=\"https://www.njfuture.org/smart-growth-101/smart-growth-awards/2005-award/cranford-crossing/\">Cranford Crossing, Cranford, NJ.</a></p>\n<p>Cranford Crossing, a mixed-use redevelopment integrated into Cranford’s pedestrian-friendly environment and located one block from Cranford’s train station.</p>\n<p><a href=\"http://library.rpa.org/pdf/RPA-The-Fourth-Regional-Plan.pdf\">Regional Plan Association Report – The Fourth Regional Plan</a></p>\n<p>This report provides examples of several Transit Oriented Developments (TODs) throughout NJ that encourage alternative transportation.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Benefits</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Encouraging the use of alternative transportation options provides benefits for developers, property owners, and building occupants as well as benefits for the environment and the community. Alternative transportation reduces automobile congestion, fossil fuel consumption and carbon emissions.<sup><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[7]</a></sup> Some forms of alternative transportation also provide options for healthier lifestyle choices. Proximity to public transportation and neighborhood services can improve quality of life and reduce commuting stress, all of which provide positive marketing opportunities for a new commercial facility. Businesses can participate in programs that encourage alternative transportation strategies such as <a href=\"http://www.transoptions.org/new-jersey-smart-workplaces\">New Jersey Smart Workplaces</a>, a partnership between NJ DOT, NJ Transit, and the state’s Transportation Management Association, that recognizes organizations and individuals who help reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\"><sup>[8]</sup></a></p>\n<h2><strong><b>Costs</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Including alternative transportation options in the initial design phase and locating projects near rapid transit helps to reduce upfront project costs. Transit-oriented design saves developers money by capitalizing on existing infrastructure and upgrades rather than relying on the developer to provide new infrastructure and parking, a significant redevelopment cost (see <em><i>Brownfield and Infill sites</i></em>).</p>\n<p>Building excessive parking adds to construction costs and may contribute to environmental problems such as the heat island effect and increased stormwater runoff (see <em><i>High Reflectance Hardscape Materials</i></em> and <em><i>Pervious Hardscape Materials</i></em>). Providing excessive parking also encourages driving, which causes congestion, air pollution, and contributes to the emission of greenhouse gases. The fewer spaces dedicated to parking, the more for open space, parks, community rooms, or additional building square footage.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\"><sup>[9]</sup></a></p>\n<p>Costs associated with providing facilities and equipment that encourage alternative transportation options such as biking and walking vary by project and may include costs to provide shower and changing facilities. Bicycle racks can accommodate about ten bikes for the same space and cost as one parking space. The cost of adding bike lanes depends on the existing condition of the roads.  The cost of adding a sidewalk is about $70 per linear foot along existing roads<strong><b>, </b></strong>though it can be significantly less if included as part of the initial road construction work.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\"><sup>[10]</sup></a></p>\n<h2><strong><b>Resiliency</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Locating buildings with access to a variety of alternative transportation options increases a building and its occupant’s resiliency by providing access to a seamless network of diverse mobility choices fueled by multiple energy sources and insulated from disruptions caused by extreme weather events, security threats, and disaster-related scenarios.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_edn12\" name=\"_ednref12\"><sup>[11]</sup></a> Telecommuting and flexible work schedules reduce congestion and strain on transportation systems, especially during vulnerable times such as storms and inclement weather. Providing bi-directional electric-plug in charging stations supports alternative fuel vehicle adoption, and vehicle-to-grid applications, which enable fully charged EV’s to supply power to the grid during emergencies or supply shortages (see <em><i>Energy Storage and Backup Power Generation</i></em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_edn13\" name=\"_ednref13\"><sup>[12]</sup></a></p>\n<p>TOD encourages community interaction that can lead to better cultural understanding, stronger social ties, and in turn, more resilient communities that come together to support each other in times of need. Also, TOD helps reduce the number of cars on the road, an added benefit, especially during times of mandatory evacuations when roads need to be accessible to first responders.</p>\n<p>A study by the Federal Highway Administration, “The Post Hurricane Sandy Transportation Resilience Study in New York-New Jersey-Connecticut,” provides an assessment of the region’s transportation system’s resilience to climate, sea level rise and extreme weather leveraging lessons learned from Hurricane Sandy as well as future climate projections and identifies strategies to reduce and manage extreme weather vulnerabilities.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_edn14\" name=\"_ednref14\"><sup>[13]</sup></a></p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> USGBC. LEED O+M: Existing Buildings | LEED v4.  Alternative Transportation. <a href=\"https://www.usgbc.org/credits/existing-buildings-schools-existing-buildings-retail-existing-buildings-data-centers-exis-41\">https://www.usgbc.org/credits/existing-buildings-schools-existing-buildings-retail-existing-buildings-data-centers-exis-41</a> (accessed March 1, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> Alex Wilson and Rachel Navaro. Driving to Green Buildings: The Transportation Intensity of Buildings. <a href=\"https://www.buildinggreen.com/feature/driving-green-buildings-transportation-energy-intensity-buildings\">https://www.buildinggreen.com/feature/driving-green-buildings-transportation-energy-intensity-buildings</a> (accessed March 1, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> NJTOD.org. “What is Transit Oriented Development?” <a href=\"http://njtod.org/about-us/what-is-transit-oriented-development/\">http://njtod.org/about-us/what-is-transit-oriented-development/</a> (accessed March 28, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> Stop Waste. Green Rehabilitation of Multifamily Rental Properties, 2018.  <a href=\"http://www.stopwaste.org/resource/green-rehabilitation-multifamily-rental-properties\">http://www.stopwaste.org/resource/green-rehabilitation-multifamily-rental-properties</a> (accessed March 1, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> US General Service Administration (GSA). “Resources for Managing Teleworkers.” <a href=\"https://www.gsa.gov/governmentwide-initiatives/telework/telework-initiatives-at-gsa/resources-for-managing-teleworkers\">https://www.gsa.gov/governmentwide-initiatives/telework/telework-initiatives-at-gsa/resources-for-managing-teleworkers</a> (accessed Sept 10, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> NJ DOT. <a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/community/village/\">http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/community/village/</a> (accessed April 1, 2018).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\"></a></p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> Federal Transit Administration. Transit-Oriented and Joint Development. <a href=\"https://www.transit.dot.gov/JointDevelopment\">https://www.transit.dot.gov/JointDevelopment</a> (accessed March 1, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> NJ DOT. <a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/commuter/njsw/partners.shtm#tma\">http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/commuter/njsw/partners.shtm#tma</a> (accessed March 1, 2018)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> Stop Waste. Green Rehabilitation of Multifamily Rental Properties, 2018.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\"><sup>[10]</sup></a> The Sidewalk Study. <a href=\"http://www.knoxmpc.org/pubs/sidewalk.htm\">http://www.knoxmpc.org/pubs/sidewalk.htm</a> (accessed March 1, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_ednref12\" name=\"_edn12\"><sup>[11]</sup></a> Victoria Transport Policy Institute. (2017) “Evaluating Transportation Resilience&lt;</p>\n<p>Evaluating the Transportation System’s Ability to Accommodate Diverse, Variable and Unexpected Demands with Minimal Risk.” <a href=\"http://www.vtpi.org/tdm/tdm88.htm\">http://www.vtpi.org/tdm/tdm88.htm</a> (accessed March 8, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_ednref13\" name=\"_edn13\"><sup>[12]</sup></a> Energy Storage Association (ESA). 2018. “Electricity Storage and Plug-In Vehicles.” <a href=\"http://energystorage.org/energy-storage/technology-applications/electricity-storage-and-plug-vehicles\">http://energystorage.org/energy-storage/technology-applications/electricity-storage-and-plug-vehicles</a> (accessed August 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-alternative-transportation/#_ednref14\" name=\"_edn14\"><sup>[13]</sup></a> Federal Highway Administration (FHA). “Post-Hurricane Sandy Transportation Resilience Study of NY, NJ, and CT.” October 2017. Final Report. <a href=\"http://www.njtpa.org/planning/regional-studies/completed-studies/post-hurricane-sandy-transportation-resilience/ny-nj-ct-hurricane-sandy-follow-up\">http://www.njtpa.org/planning/regional-studies/completed-studies/post-hurricane-sandy-transportation-resilience/ny-nj-ct-hurricane-sandy-follow-up</a> (accessed March 8, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-active-living/\">Active Living</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-energy-storage-and-back-up-power-generation/\">Energy Storage and Backup Power Generation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-high-reflectance-hardscape-materials/\">High Reflectance Hardscape Materials</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-pervious-hardscape-materials/\">Pervious Hardscape Materials</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://vtc.rutgers.edu/\">Alan M. Vorhees Transportation Center (VTC)</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.transit.dot.gov/TOD\">Federal Transit Administration – Transit Oriented Development</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njbikeped.org/\">NJ Bicycle &amp; Pedestrian Resource Center (Complete Streets)</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://cleancities.energy.gov/coalitions/new-jersey\">NJ Clean Cities Coalition</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njtod.org/\">NJTOD.org (A partnership between NJ Transit and Rutgers University)</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/community/village/\">NJ Department of Transportation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.njslom.org/\">NJ State League of Municipalities</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/community/village/\">NJ Transit Village Initiative</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.rpa.org/regions/new-jersey\">Regional Plan Association</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.smartgrid.gov/\">SmartGrid.Gov</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.whatissmartgrid.org/\">SmartGrid.Org</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth\">US EPA – Smart Growth</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.gsa.gov/governmentwide-initiatives/telework/telework-initiatives-at-gsa/resources-for-managing-teleworkers\">US GSA – Resources for Managing Teleworkers</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NC Alternative Transportation','','inherit','closed','closed','','1097-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:48:22','2022-06-23 17:48:22','',1097,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2485',0,'revision','',0),(2486,3,'2022-06-23 17:48:23','2022-06-23 17:48:23','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Alternative Transportation\" subhead=\"New Residential\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2><strong><b>What is Alternative Transportation?</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Alternative transportation discourages dependence on the personal automobile and encourages public transportation options such as carpooling, vanpooling, busing, walking, and cycling. Telecommuting, informal transit options, compressed workweeks, and alternative fuel vehicles such as plug-in electric vehicles (EVs) also help reduce the number of greenhouse gasses produced by single occupancy vehicles.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> Commuting to and from an average office building built to modern energy codes consumes thirty percent more energy compared to the energy the building itself consumes.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> The location of residential buildings and their proximity to other resources and services are important factors to consider in a home’s overall environmental impact. Transit Oriented Development (TOD) concentrates development around transit stations, such as train, light rail, and bus stations, and other amenities to create places for people to live, work, and play without requiring the use of a car.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a></p>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"][caption id=\"attachment_184\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"678\"]<img class=\"wp-image-184 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Alternative-Transportation-and-TOD-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (Source: Flickr).\" width=\"678\" height=\"484\" /> Figure 1 – Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (Source: Flickr).[/caption][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2><strong><b>How to Incorporate Alternative Transportation<br /></b></strong></h2>\n<p>There are several alternative transportation strategies to consider when developing a new residential project that can also help to earn your project LEEDv4 Home credits.</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Proximity to existing public transportation, pedestrian, and bicycle networks and establishing a shuttle service if beyond a short walk away.</li>\n<li>Proximity to existing infrastructure, services and economic activity such as stores, schools, offices, and parks.</li>\n<li>Minimizing on-site parking and providing bicycle changing facilities and storage.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a></li>\n<li>Providing covered areas for people awaiting carpool/vanpool rides and drop-off/pick-up zones for vehicles.</li>\n<li>Providing facilities to encourage energy-efficient vehicle use, such as two-way electric plug-in charging stations that enable EVs to both draw electricity from and supply electricity to the grid, and liquid or gas alternative fueling facilities or a battery switching station.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Many local programs assist with alternative transportation options such as the <a href=\"http://www.hudsontma.org/index.php?page=ridesharecarpoo&amp;option=com_content&amp;task=view&amp;id=44&amp;cat_id=18&amp;Itemid=54\">Hudson County Transportation Management Authority</a> that offers rideshare, carpool, and vanpool services as well as other useful information for commuters.</p>\n<p>Employees can take advantage of or look to work for companies that offer telecommuting options, which contribute to sustainable workplace practices by allowing employees to communicate via telephone and computers to accomplish tasks that traditionally occur in central office spaces, reducing traffic congestion and strain on transportation systems, fuel consumption, and associated emissions and air quality issues.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a></p>\n<p>TOD begins with site selection near transit hubs. Consider local regulations and interest in transit hub development to reduce delays and conflict. Identify special zoning and permit systems designed to expedite efficient redevelopment of urban centers.</p>\n<p>The New Jersey Department of Transportation and New Jersey Transit leads a multi-agency partnership known as the <a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/community/village/\">Transit Village Initiative</a> that encourages pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods and community revitalization. This program aims to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and promote growth in areas where infrastructure and public transit already exist.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a></p>\n<h3>Examples</h3>\n<p><a href=\"https://www.njfuture.org/smart-growth-101/smart-growth-awards/2005-award/cranford-crossing/\">Cranford Crossing, Cranford, NJ.</a></p>\n<p>Cranford Crossing, a mixed-use redevelopment integrated into Cranford’s pedestrian-friendly environment and located one block from Cranford’s train station.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\"><sup>[7]</sup></a></p>\n<p><a href=\"http://library.rpa.org/pdf/RPA-The-Fourth-Regional-Plan.pdf\">Regional Plan Association Report – The Fourth Regional Plan</a></p>\n<p>This report provides examples of several Transit Oriented Developments (TODs) throughout NJ that encourage alternative transportation.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Benefits</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Encouraging the use of alternative transportation options provides benefits for developers, property owners, and building occupants as well as benefits for the environment and the community. Alternative transportation reduces automobile congestion, fossil fuel consumption, and carbon emissions.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> Some forms of alternative transportation also provide options for healthier lifestyle choices. Initiatives like increased bike parking and storage can lead to a more active lifestyle on the part of residents as well as potentially lowering the risk of diseases such as diabetes linked to unhealthy diets and low activity. Proximity to public transportation and neighborhood services can improve quality of life and reduce commuting stress, all of which provide positive marketing opportunities for a new residential or mixed-use facility.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Costs</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Including alternative transportation options in the initial design phase and locating projects near rapid transit helps to reduce upfront project costs. Transit-oriented design saves developers money by capitalizing on existing infrastructure and upgrades rather than relying on the developer to provide new infrastructure and parking, a significant redevelopment cost (see <em><i>Brownfield and Infill sites</i></em>).</p>\n<p>Building excessive parking adds to construction costs and may contribute to environmental problems such as the heat island effect and increased stormwater runoff (see <em><i>High Reflectance Hardscape Materials</i></em> and <em><i>Pervious Hardscape Materials</i></em>). Providing excessive parking also encourages driving, which causes congestion, air pollution, and contributes to the emission of greenhouse gases. The fewer spaces dedicated to parking, the more for open space, parks, community rooms, or additional building square footage.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\"><sup>[9]</sup></a></p>\n<p>Costs associated with providing facilities and equipment that encourage alternative transportation options such as biking and walking vary by project and may include costs to provide shower and changing facilities. Bicycle racks can accommodate about ten bikes for the same space and cost as one parking space. The cost of adding bike lanes depends on the existing condition of the roads.  The cost of adding a sidewalk is about $70 per linear foot along existing roads<strong><b>, </b></strong>though it can be significantly less if included as part of the initial road construction work.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\"><sup>[10]</sup></a></p>\n<h2><strong><b>Resiliency</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Locating residential buildings and homes with access to a variety of alternative transportation options increases a building and its occupant’s resiliency by providing access to a seamless network of diverse mobility choices fueled by multiple energy sources and insulated from disruptions caused by extreme weather events, security threats, and disaster-related scenarios.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\"><sup>[11]</sup></a> Telecommuting and flexible work schedules reduce congestion and strain on transportation systems, especially during vulnerable times such as storms and inclement weather. Providing bi-directional electric-plug in charging stations supports alternative fuel vehicle adoption, and vehicle-to-grid applications, which enable fully charged EV’s to supply power to the grid during emergencies or supply shortages (see <em><i>Energy Storage and Backup Power Generation</i></em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_edn12\" name=\"_ednref12\"><sup>[12]</sup></a></p>\n<p>TOD encourages community interaction that can lead to better cultural understanding, stronger social ties, and in turn, more resilient communities that come together to support each other in times of need. Also, TOD and telecommuting help reduce the number of cars on the road, an added benefit, especially during times of mandatory evacuations when roads need to be accessible to first responders.</p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> USGBC. LEED O+M: Existing Buildings | LEED v4.  Alternative Transportation. <a href=\"https://www.usgbc.org/credits/existing-buildings-schools-existing-buildings-retail-existing-buildings-data-centers-exis-41\">https://www.usgbc.org/credits/existing-buildings-schools-existing-buildings-retail-existing-buildings-data-centers-exis-41</a> (accessed March 1, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> Alex Wilson and Rachel Navaro. Driving to Green Buildings: The Transportation Intensity of Buildings. <a href=\"https://www.buildinggreen.com/feature/driving-green-buildings-transportation-energy-intensity-buildings\">https://www.buildinggreen.com/feature/driving-green-buildings-transportation-energy-intensity-buildings</a> (accessed March 1, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> NJTOD.org. “What is Transit Oriented Development?” <a href=\"http://njtod.org/about-us/what-is-transit-oriented-development/\">http://njtod.org/about-us/what-is-transit-oriented-development/</a> (accessed March 28, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> Stop Waste. Green Rehabilitation of Multifamily Rental Properties, 2018. <a href=\"http://www.stopwaste.org/resource/green-rehabilitation-multifamily-rental-properties\">http://www.stopwaste.org/resource/green-rehabilitation-multifamily-rental-properties</a> (accessed March 1, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> US General Service Administration (GSA). “Resources for Managing Teleworkers.” <a href=\"https://www.gsa.gov/governmentwide-initiatives/telework/telework-initiatives-at-gsa/resources-for-managing-teleworkers\">https://www.gsa.gov/governmentwide-initiatives/telework/telework-initiatives-at-gsa/resources-for-managing-teleworkers</a> (accessed Sept 10, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> NJ DOT. <a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/community/village/\">http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/community/village/</a> (accessed April 1, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\"><sup>[7]</sup></a> New Jersey Future – Smart Growth Awards: Cranford Crossing  <a href=\"http://www.njfuture.org/smart-growth-101/smart-growth-awards/2005-award/cranford-crossing/\">http://www.njfuture.org/smart-growth-101/smart-growth-awards/2005-award/cranford-crossing/</a>  (accessed March 1, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\"><sup>[8]</sup></a> Federal Transit Administration. Transit-Oriented and Joint Development. <a href=\"https://www.transit.dot.gov/JointDevelopment\">https://www.transit.dot.gov/JointDevelopment</a>  (accessed March 1, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\"><sup>[9]</sup></a> Stop Waste.  Green Rehabilitation of Multifamily Rental Properties, 2018.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\"><sup>[10]</sup></a> The Sidewalk Study. <a href=\"http://www.knoxmpc.org/pubs/sidewalk.htm\">http://www.knoxmpc.org/pubs/sidewalk.htm</a> (accessed March 1, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\"><sup>[11]</sup></a> Victoria Transport Policy Institute. (2017) “Evaluating Transportation Resilience</p>\n<p>Evaluating the Transportation System’s Ability to Accommodate Diverse, Variable and Unexpected Demands with Minimal Risk.” <a href=\"http://www.vtpi.org/tdm/tdm88.htm\">http://www.vtpi.org/tdm/tdm88.htm</a> (accessed March 8, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-alternative-transportation/#_ednref12\" name=\"_edn12\"><sup>[12]</sup></a> Energy Storage Association (ESA). 2018. “Electricity Storage and Plug-In Vehicles.” <a href=\"http://energystorage.org/energy-storage/technology-applications/electricity-storage-and-plug-vehicles\">http://energystorage.org/energy-storage/technology-applications/electricity-storage-and-plug-vehicles</a> (accessed August 21, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-active-living/\">Active Living</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-energy-storage-and-back-up-power-generation/\">Energy Storage and Back-up Power Generation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-high-reflectance-hardscape-materials/\">High Reflectance Hardscape Materials</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-pervious-landscape-materials/\">Pervious Hardscape Materials</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://vtc.rutgers.edu/\">Alan M. Vorhees Transportation Center (VTC)</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.transit.dot.gov/TOD\">Federal Transit Administration – Transit Oriented Development</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njbikeped.org/\">NJ Bicycle &amp; Pedestrian Resource Center  (Complete Streets)</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://cleancities.energy.gov/coalitions/new-jersey\">NJ Clean Cities Coalition</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njtod.org/\">NJTOD.org (A partnership between NJ Transit and Rutgers University)</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/community/village/\">NJ Department of Transportation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.njslom.org/\">NJ State League of Municipalities</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/community/village/\">NJ Transit Village Initiative</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.smartgrid.gov/\">SmartGrid.Gov</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.whatissmartgrid.org/\">SmartGrid.Org</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.rpa.org/regions/new-jersey\">Regional Plan Association</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth\">US EPA – Smart Growth</a></li>\n<li> </li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NR Alternative Transportation','','inherit','closed','closed','','1225-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:48:23','2022-06-23 17:48:23','',1225,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2486',0,'revision','',0),(2487,3,'2022-06-23 17:49:32','2022-06-23 17:49:32','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Tree Protection and Placement\" subhead=\"New Residential\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong>What is Tree Protection and Placement?</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees play an essential role in the overall environmental quality of a property. Protecting existing trees and properly siting new trees can increase the energy efficiency of a building design before considering mechanical enhancements or upgrades. Trees protect buildings by reducing energy loads, reducing interior glare, and blocking potentially harsh winds (see<span> </span><em>Glare and Heat Gain Reduction</em>). Trees also add aesthetic appeal, reduce stormwater runoff and soil erosion, and can improve air quality. It is essential to locate trees strategically. Trees can take 10-15 years to mature to a size that provides significant shade and protection, therefore protecting existing trees during construction is very important.</p>\n<p>Before construction begins, consult with an International Society for Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborist who can work with the project team to formulate a plan to protect existing trees. Symptoms of tree damage from construction may not be visible immediately but may appear years later. In planning for tree protection and determining necessary tree removals, consider the species, size, maturity, location, and condition of each tree.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a><span> </span>Sometimes saving a younger tree is more beneficial than saving a mature tree because they are better able to adapt to the disturbances of construction. It is essential to maintain a diversity of species and age of trees on the site.</p>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][caption id=\"attachment_432\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"596\"]<img class=\"wp-image-432 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Tree-Protection-and-Placement-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Drip line diagram (Source: Bracewell, Sara K. University of Minnesota – Sustainable Urban Landscape Information Series. “Protecting Existing Trees During Construction.”\" width=\"596\" height=\"572\" /> Figure 1 – Drip line diagram (Source: Bracewell, Sara K. University of Minnesota – Sustainable Urban Landscape Information Series. “Protecting Existing Trees During Construction.”[/caption][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong>How to Implement Tree Protection and Placement</strong></h2>\n<p>A tree protection plan should be created during design and enforced during construction. The plan should define parameters such as materials and dimensions of tree protection fencing required for all trees in the site protection plan. Fencing helps protect trees by keeping construction vehicles, equipment, and materials away from the tree. Penalties, such as a fine proportional to damages accrued, help construction workers adhere to the tree protection plan.</p>\n<p>When developing a strategy to preserve existing trees during site construction, it is essential to consider both the aboveground and belowground components of the trees. Machinery can damage the trunk and crown of a tree by breaking branches and gashing the trunk. When digging to install a foundation and utilities, roots are susceptible to being severed.  The majority of the roots of a tree are no more than a foot deep in the soil. However, in a mature tree, the root system can extend as far as 1 to 3 times the height of the tree.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a><span> </span>As Figure 1 illustrates, the drip line, a vertical plane extending from the perimeter of the crown to the ground, is the minimum area that should be left undisturbed when preserving a tree. Extending that boundary increases the likelihood of the tree’s survival. The closer the cut is made to the tree, the more damage the tree suffers.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a><span> </span>Removing roots also makes the tree more prone to falling over as they stabilize the tree in the ground.  If a utility line must run through the area of a tree, the International Society of Arboriculture recommends tunneling under the tree’s roots as opposed to running through them if possible.</p>\n<p>Although equipment may not always actually cut or physically damage a tree, it should never go within the drip line of a tree because the weight can cause the soil above the roots to compact and impair root development.  Adding or removing soil above the root system should be avoided to prevent smothering or rotting. When making changes to the grade of the soil, stay as far away from the trunk as possible. Exposing trees to the elements by removing nearby trees makes them vulnerable to damage from the sun and to breaking from wind and ice. All of these factors are important as trees require years to adjust to stresses caused by construction.  Continue to monitor and maintain trees and look out for any signs of poor health or safety hazards.  An arborist can provide guidance on how to properly maintain and treat any trees that have suffered damage.</p>\n<p><strong> </strong>Select trees carefully and maintain them as necessary to achieve maximum benefits.  To maximize energy savings associated with trees, plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of the building to lower air-conditioning costs in the summer.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a><span> </span>Locate trees so that they shade as much hardscape as possible. A commitment to the long-term care of trees is essential to maintaining their health. Consult an ISA-certified arborist for consultation and care.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a></p>\n<h3><strong>Example</strong></h3>\n<p><u>Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge</u></p>\n<p>A reconstruction project at Washington’s Headquarters included taking an inventory of existing trees, protecting historic trees, removing invasive species, and pruning and fertilizing remaining trees on the property.</p>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][caption id=\"attachment_420\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"912\"]<img class=\"wp-image-420 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Tree-Protection-and-Placement-Fig-2.png\" alt=\"Figure 2 – Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge, landscape treatment plan. (Source: Heritage Landscapes LLC).\" width=\"912\" height=\"612\" /> Figure 2 – Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge, landscape treatment plan. (Source: Heritage Landscapes LLC).[/caption][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees are essential to healthy, livable communities as they provide beauty, shade, and enhance a community’s quality of life. As described in further detail below, trees provide numerous benefits such as cleaning our air, reducing stormwater runoff, cooling buildings, and can even stimulate business in downtown areas by creating a more inviting and comfortable environment.</p>\n<p><u>Environment</u></p>\n<p><em>Absorption of Air Pollutants – </em>Preserving and increasing trees on site is a simple strategy for improving local air quality. Trees remove pollutants from the air by absorbing airborne particles and gaseous pollution. According to the US Forestry Service, 100 trees remove 53 tons of carbon dioxide and 430 pounds of other air pollutants per year.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<p><em>Carbon Sequestration – </em>Trees reduce greenhouse gases by storing carbon dioxide in their leaves, branches, trunks, and roots. They use carbon dioxide to form carbohydrates and cellulose for plant structure and function and release oxygen back into the atmosphere.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\">[7]</a><sup>,<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a></sup></p>\n<p><em>Reducing the Urban Heat Island Effect – </em>The high percentage of impervious surfaces in urban areas absorb heat and create what is known as the urban heat island effect; this causes the annual, mean air temperature of cities to be 5.4°F warmer than surrounding areas.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a> Trees help cool urban areas by shading pavement and absorbing excess urban heat, reducing the urban heat island effect. This same strategy can be applied in less densely built areas by shading hardscaped areas.</p>\n<p><em>Energy Conservation – </em>Trees strategically placed on-site can reduce the energy needed to cool and heat buildings. In the summertime, large trees on the west and east side of a building can save up to 30% of air-conditioning costs and allow units to operate more efficiently (see <em>Energy-Efficient Landscaping</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\">[10]</a></p>\n<p><em>Capturing Storm Water Runoff and Preventing Erosion – </em>Trees capture and absorb rainwater, reducing stormwater runoff. Tree roots also hold soil in place, preventing erosion (see <em>Rain Gardens</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\">[11]</a></p>\n<p><u>People</u></p>\n<p><em>Biophilia – </em>The presence of trees nurtures the inherent affinity that humans are believed to have with nature known as biophilia (see <em>Biophilic Design</em>). Well-treed environments have also been shown to reduce stressors in urban environments due to the beauty and serenity they convey. For instance, a study in a Chicago public housing development showed reduced crime levels in apartment buildings that were surrounded by greenery compared to the same buildings in barren landscapes.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn12\" name=\"_ednref12\">[12]</a> Another study showed that exposure to greener play environments reduced ADHD symptoms in children in the United States.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn13\" name=\"_ednref13\">[13]</a> Also, studies find a connection between the presence of trees and lower levels of violence.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn14\" name=\"_ednref14\">[14]</a></p>\n<p><em>Noise Reduction, Traffic Calming, and Pedestrian Safety – </em>Trees can serve as useful sound buffers. For example, a 98-foot-wide by 49-foot-tall tree belt can reduce highway noise pollution by 6 to 10 decibels.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn15\" name=\"_ednref15\">[15]</a> Trees also serve as physical barriers which protect pedestrians in high traffic areas. Since the presence of trees often indicates the presence of pedestrians, trees near roads help suppress the notion of a transportation corridor meant only for vehicles and can help calm traffic.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn16\" name=\"_ednref16\">[16]</a></p>\n<p><u>Economy</u></p>\n<p><em>Increased property values – </em>Property values have been found to increase by as much as 10%, according to the U.S. Forest Service, while the International Society of Arboriculture estimates a 5-20% increase in property value due to street trees.</p>\n<p><em>Increased Business in Shopping Districts – </em>A study conducted by University of Washington’s Center for Urban Horticulture found that the presence of trees and other vegetation positively influenced consumers’ perception of retail districts. Furthermore, shoppers spent more time shopping in downtown business districts that were well landscaped compared to those areas with little vegetation. Shoppers were also willing to pay more for parking and spend up to 11% more for goods and services in highly treed retail areas.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn17\" name=\"_ednref17\">[17]</a></p>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>On average, caring for a large tree costs $13/year but returns about $65 in energy savings, improved stormwater management, and higher property values.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn18\" name=\"_ednref18\">[18]</a></p>\n<p>The cost benefits of large, medium and small trees are as follows:<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn19\" name=\"_ednref19\">[19]</a></p>\n<p><em>Large Tree                                                         Medium Tree</em></p>\n<p>Total benefits/year = $55                                   Total benefits/year = $33</p>\n<p>Total costs/year = $18                                       Total costs/year = $17</p>\n<p>Net benefits/year = $37                                     Net benefits/year = $16</p>\n<p>Life expectancy = 120 years                              Life expectancy = 60 years</p>\n<p>Lifetime benefits = $6,600                               Lifetime benefits = $1,980</p>\n<p>Lifetime costs = $2,160                                     Lifetime costs = $1,020</p>\n<p>Value to community = $4,440                         Value to community = $960</p>\n<p><em>Small Tree</em></p>\n<p>Total benefits/year = $23</p>\n<p>Total costs/year = $14</p>\n<p>Net benefits/year = $9</p>\n<p>Life expectancy = 30 years</p>\n<p>Lifetime benefits = $690</p>\n<p>Lifetime costs = $420</p>\n<p>Value to community = $270</p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees provide multiple resiliency benefits. During severe storms, tree roots help to manage flooding and coastal/riparian erosion by soaking up water and stabilizing soil. Trees help reduce strain on local sewer systems, especially combined sewer systems where flooding events can negatively affect water quality and lead to public health concerns.  By infiltrating water where it falls, trees help replenish groundwater reserves, relieving stress on local water supplies and reducing the need to import potable water.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn20\" name=\"_ednref20\">[20]</a> Consequently, trees can lessen the impact of droughts.</p>\n<p>In the event of a significant heat wave, shade-providing trees help to reduce the urban heat island effect, reduce indoor cooling loads, and reduce stress on the power grid. When emergency events disrupt regular supply and delivery networks, fruit producing trees can supplement local food supplies. Furthermore, properly sited and maintained trees can block buildings from severe winds and offer protection from extreme cold.</p>\n<p>Note that debris from storm-related tree damage and downed electric lines caused by wind, snow, and ice, flooding and lighting is often one of the most substantial storm-related expenses. Maintaining tree health through proper pruning, watering, and disease control can help prevent tree damage and preserve the many benefits of trees.</p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a> International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Trees Are Good. “Avoiding Tree Damage During Construction.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210413063426/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018.)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a> ISA. Trees Are Good. “Avoiding Tree Damage During Construction.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210413063426/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a> ISA. Trees are Good. “Tree Care Information:  Benefits of Trees.” <a href=\"https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/benefits_trees.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/benefits_trees.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a> Sustainable Urban Forests Coalition. “Urban Forests Curb Greenhouse Gases.” <a href=\"http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf\">http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a> US Forestry Service: Benefits of Trees. <a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/learn/trees\">https://www.fs.fed.us/learn/trees</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\">[7]</a> Colorado Tree Coalition.  “Education: Why Plant a Tree?”  <a href=\"http://coloradotrees.org/education/\">http://coloradotrees.org/education/</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\">[8]</a> Sustainable Urban Forests Coalition. “Urban Forests Curb Greenhouse Gases.” <a href=\"http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf\">http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\">[9]</a> US EPA.   “Heat Island Effect.”   <a href=\"http://www.epa.gov/heatisland/\">http://www.epa.gov/heatisland/</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\">[10]</a> Arbor Day Foundation.  “Benefits of Trees.” <a href=\"https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits.cfm\">https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits.cfm</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\">[11]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref12\" name=\"_edn12\">[12]</a> Kuo, F.E., &amp; Sullivan, W.C. (2001). <em>Environment and crime in the inner city: Does vegetation reduce crime?</em><em> </em><em>Environment and Behavior</em><em>,</em> 33(3), 343-367. <a href=\"http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm\">http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm</a> (accessed April 10, 2018)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref13\" name=\"_edn13\">[13]</a> Faber Taylor, A., Kuo, F.E., &amp; Sullivan, W.C. (2001). “Coping with ADD: The surprising connection to green play settings.” <em>Environment and Behavior</em>, 33(1), 54-77. <a href=\"http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm\">http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm</a> (accessed April 10, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref14\" name=\"_edn14\">[14]</a> Sullivan, W.C. &amp; F. E. Kuo.  Human-Environment Research Laboratory Department of Natural Resources and the Environmental Sciences University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  “Do Trees Strengthen Urban Communities, Reduce Domestic Violence?”  January 1996.  <a href=\"http://www.aces.edu/urban/metronews/vol1no4/forestry.html\">http://www.aces.edu/urban/metronews/vol1no4/forestry.html</a>  (accessed April 10, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref15\" name=\"_edn15\">[15]</a> National Forest Foundation.  “New Research Proves Just How Green Urban Forests Are.” <a href=\"https://www.nationalforests.org/blog/green-urban-forests\">https://www.nationalforests.org/blog/green-urban-forests</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref16\" name=\"_edn16\">[16]</a> Jacobs, Allan B.  <em>Great Streets</em>.  Cambridge MA: MIT Press.  1995.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref17\" name=\"_edn17\">[17]</a> Center for Urban Horticulture, University of Washington, College of Forest Resources.  “Fact Sheet #5: Trees in Business Districts.”  <a href=\"http://www.naturewithin.info/CityBiz/Biz3Ps-FS5.pdf\">http://www.naturewithin.info/CityBiz/Biz3Ps-FS5.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref18\" name=\"_edn18\">[18]</a> US Forest Service, Center for Urban Forestry Research and Information.  “The Large Tree Argument.”  <a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/psw/topics/urban_forestry/products/cufr_511_large_tree_argument.pdf\">https://www.fs.fed.us/psw/topics/urban_forestry/products/cufr_511_large_tree_argument.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref19\" name=\"_edn19\">[19]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref20\" name=\"_edn20\">[20]</a> US EPA. Green Infrastructure: Climate Resiliency. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/green-infrastructure-climate-resiliency\">https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/green-infrastructure-climate-resiliency</a> (accessed April 25, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-biophilic-design/\">Biophilic Design</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-energy-efficient-landscaping/\">Energy-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-glare-and-heat-gain-reduction/\">Glare and Heat Gain Reduction</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-rain-gardens/\">Rain Gardens</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.arborday.org/treeguide/\">Arbor Day Foundation Tree Guide</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.treesaregood.org/\">International Society of Arboriculture – Trees Are Good</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.itreetools.org/\">I-Tree Tools</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://global.nature.org/?intc=glob_sol.topnav.logo\">The Nature Conservancy</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/forest/community/\">NJ DEP Division of Parks and Forestry – Community Forestry</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njtrees.org/\">NJ Tree Foundation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.phillywatersheds.org/what_were_doing/community_partnerships/programs/soak-it-adoption/green-stormwater-tools\">Philadelphia Water Department</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njaes.rutgers.edu/extension/\">Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.fs.usda.gov/ccrc/topics/urban-forests-and-climate-change\">Urban Forests and Climate Change</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/dg0604.html\">University of Minnesota Extension Service: Fitting Trees and Shrubs into the Landscape</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure\">US EPA Green Infrastructure</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/spf/coop/programs/wf/\">US Forest Service Watershed Forestry</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NR Tree Protection and Placement','','inherit','closed','closed','','1258-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:49:32','2022-06-23 17:49:32','',1258,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2487',0,'revision','',0),(2488,3,'2022-06-23 17:49:35','2022-06-23 17:49:35','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Tree Protection and Placement\" subhead=\"New Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong>What is Tree Protection and Placement?</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees play an essential role in the overall environmental quality of a property. Protecting existing trees and properly siting new trees can increase the energy efficiency of a building design before considering mechanical enhancements or upgrades. Trees protect buildings by reducing energy loads, reducing interior glare, and blocking potentially harsh winds (see <em>Glare and Heat Gain Reduction</em>). Trees also add aesthetic appeal, reduce stormwater runoff and soil erosion, and can improve air quality. It is essential to locate trees strategically. Trees can take 10-15 years to mature to a size that provides significant shade and protection, therefore protecting existing trees during construction is very important.</p>\n<p>Before construction begins, consult with an International Society for Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborist who can work with the project team to formulate a plan to protect existing trees. Symptoms of tree damage from construction may not be visible immediately but may appear years later. In planning for tree protection and determining necessary tree removals, consider the species, size, maturity, location, and condition of each tree.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a> Sometimes saving a younger tree is more beneficial than saving a mature tree because they are better able to adapt to the disturbances of construction. It is essential to maintain a diversity of species and age of trees on the site.</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_432\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"596\"]<img class=\"wp-image-432 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Tree-Protection-and-Placement-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Drip line diagram (Source: Bracewell, Sara K. University of Minnesota – Sustainable Urban Landscape Information Series. “Protecting Existing Trees During Construction.”\" width=\"596\" height=\"572\" /> Figure 1 – Drip line diagram (Source: Bracewell, Sara K. University of Minnesota – Sustainable Urban Landscape Information Series. “Protecting Existing Trees During Construction.”[/caption]\n<h2><strong>How to Implement Tree Protection and Placement</strong></h2>\n<p><strong> </strong>A tree protection plan should be created during design and enforced during construction. The plan should define parameters such as materials and dimensions of tree protection fencing required for all trees in the site protection plan. Fencing helps protect trees by keeping construction vehicles, equipment, and materials away from the tree. Penalties, such as a fine proportional to damages accrued, help construction workers adhere to the tree protection plan.</p>\n<p>When developing a strategy to preserve existing trees during site construction, it is essential to consider both the aboveground and belowground components of the trees. Machinery can damage the trunk and crown of a tree by breaking branches and gashing the trunk. When digging to install a foundation and utilities, roots are susceptible to being severed.  The majority of the roots of a tree are no more than a foot deep in the soil. However, in a mature tree, the root system can extend as far as 1 to 3 times the height of the tree.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a> As Figure 1 illustrates, the drip line, a vertical plane extending from the perimeter of the crown to the ground, is the minimum area that should be left undisturbed when preserving a tree. Extending that boundary increases the likelihood of the tree’s survival. The closer the cut is made to the tree, the more damage the tree suffers.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a> Removing roots also makes the tree more prone to falling over as they stabilize the tree in the ground.  If a utility line must run through the area of a tree, the International Society of Arboriculture recommends tunneling under the tree’s roots as opposed to running through them if possible.</p>\n<p>Although equipment may not always actually cut or physically damage a tree, it should never go within the drip line of a tree because the weight can cause the soil above the roots to compact and impair root development.  Adding or removing soil above the root system should be avoided to prevent smothering or rotting. When making changes to the grade of the soil, stay as far away from the trunk as possible. Exposing trees to the elements by removing nearby trees makes them vulnerable to damage from the sun and to breaking from wind and ice. All of these factors are important as trees require years to adjust to stresses caused by construction.  Continue to monitor and maintain trees and look out for any signs of poor health or safety hazards.  An arborist can provide guidance on how to properly maintain and treat any trees that have suffered damage.</p>\n<p><strong> </strong>Select trees carefully and maintain them as necessary to achieve maximum benefits.  To maximize energy savings associated with trees, plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of the building to lower air-conditioning costs in the summer.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a> Locate trees so that they shade as much hardscape as possible. A commitment to the long-term care of trees is essential to maintaining their health. Consult an ISA-certified arborist for consultation and care.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a></p>\n<h3><strong>Example</strong></h3>\n<p><u>Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge</u></p>\n<p>A reconstruction project at Washington’s Headquarters included taking an inventory of existing trees, protecting historic trees, removing invasive species, and pruning and fertilizing remaining trees on the property.</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_420\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"912\"]<img class=\"wp-image-420 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Tree-Protection-and-Placement-Fig-2.png\" alt=\"Figure 2 – Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge, landscape treatment plan. (Source: Heritage Landscapes LLC).\" width=\"912\" height=\"612\" /> Figure 2 – Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge, landscape treatment plan. (Source: Heritage Landscapes LLC).[/caption]\n<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees are essential to healthy, livable communities as they provide beauty, shade, and enhance a community’s quality of life. As described in further detail below, trees provide numerous benefits such as cleaning our air, reducing stormwater runoff, cooling buildings, and can even stimulate business in downtown areas by creating a more inviting and comfortable environment.</p>\n<p><u>Environment</u></p>\n<p><em>Absorption of Air Pollutants – </em>Preserving and increasing trees on site is a simple strategy for improving local air quality. Trees remove pollutants from the air by absorbing airborne particles and gaseous pollution. According to the US Forestry Service, 100 trees remove 53 tons of carbon dioxide and 430 pounds of other air pollutants per year.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<p><em>Carbon Sequestration – </em>Trees reduce greenhouse gases by storing carbon dioxide in their leaves, branches, trunks, and roots. They use carbon dioxide to form carbohydrates and cellulose for plant structure and function and release oxygen back into the atmosphere.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\">[7]</a><sup>,<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a></sup></p>\n<p><em>Reducing the Urban Heat Island Effect – </em>The high percentage of impervious surfaces in urban areas absorb heat and create what is known as the urban heat island effect; this causes the annual, mean air temperature of cities to be 5.4°F warmer than surrounding areas.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a> Trees help cool urban areas by shading pavement and absorbing excess urban heat, reducing the urban heat island effect. This same strategy can be applied in less densely built areas by shading hardscaped areas.</p>\n<p><em>Energy Conservation – </em>Trees strategically placed on-site can reduce the energy needed to cool and heat buildings. In the summertime, large trees on the west and east side of a building can save up to 30% of air-conditioning costs and allow units to operate more efficiently (see <em>Energy-Efficient Landscaping</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\">[10]</a></p>\n<p><em>Capturing Storm Water Runoff and Preventing Erosion – </em>Trees capture and absorb rainwater, reducing stormwater runoff. Tree roots also hold soil in place, preventing erosion (see <em>Rain Gardens</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\">[11]</a></p>\n<p><u>People</u></p>\n<p><em>Biophilia – </em>The presence of trees nurtures the inherent affinity that humans are believed to have with nature known as biophilia (see <em>Biophilic Design</em>). Well-treed environments have also been shown to reduce stressors in urban environments due to the beauty and serenity they convey. For instance, a study in a Chicago public housing development showed reduced crime levels in apartment buildings that were surrounded by greenery compared to the same buildings in barren landscapes.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn12\" name=\"_ednref12\">[12]</a> Another study showed that exposure to greener play environments reduced ADHD symptoms in children in the United States.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn13\" name=\"_ednref13\">[13]</a> Also, studies find a connection between the presence of trees and lower levels of violence.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn14\" name=\"_ednref14\">[14]</a></p>\n<p><em>Noise Reduction, Traffic Calming, and Pedestrian Safety – </em>Trees can serve as useful sound buffers. For example, a 98-foot-wide by 49-foot-tall tree belt can reduce highway noise pollution by 6 to 10 decibels.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn15\" name=\"_ednref15\">[15]</a> Trees also serve as physical barriers which protect pedestrians in high traffic areas. Since the presence of trees often indicates the presence of pedestrians, trees near roads help suppress the notion of a transportation corridor meant only for vehicles and can help calm traffic.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn16\" name=\"_ednref16\">[16]</a></p>\n<p><u>Economy</u></p>\n<p><em>Increased property values – </em>Property values have been found to increase by as much as 10%, according to the U.S. Forest Service, while the International Society of Arboriculture estimates a 5-20% increase in property value due to street trees.</p>\n<p><em>Increased Business in Shopping Districts – </em>A study conducted by University of Washington’s Center for Urban Horticulture found that the presence of trees and other vegetation positively influenced consumers’ perception of retail districts. Furthermore, shoppers spent more time shopping in downtown business districts that were well landscaped compared to those areas with little vegetation. Shoppers were also willing to pay more for parking and spend up to 11% more for goods and services in highly treed retail areas.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn17\" name=\"_ednref17\">[17]</a></p>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>On average, caring for a large tree costs $13/year but returns about $65 in energy savings, improved stormwater management, and higher property values.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn18\" name=\"_ednref18\">[18]</a></p>\n<p>The cost benefits of large, medium and small trees are as follows:<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn19\" name=\"_ednref19\">[19]</a></p>\n<p><em>Large Tree                                                         Medium Tree</em></p>\n<p>Total benefits/year = $55                                   Total benefits/year = $33</p>\n<p>Total costs/year = $18                                       Total costs/year = $17</p>\n<p>Net benefits/year = $37                                     Net benefits/year = $16</p>\n<p>Life expectancy = 120 years                              Life expectancy = 60 years</p>\n<p>Lifetime benefits = $6,600                               Lifetime benefits = $1,980</p>\n<p>Lifetime costs = $2,160                                     Lifetime costs = $1,020</p>\n<p>Value to community = $4,440                         Value to community = $960</p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><em>Small Tree</em></p>\n<p>Total benefits/year = $23</p>\n<p>Total costs/year = $14</p>\n<p>Net benefits/year = $9</p>\n<p>Life expectancy = 30 years</p>\n<p>Lifetime benefits = $690</p>\n<p>Lifetime costs = $420</p>\n<p>Value to community = $270</p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees provide multiple resiliency benefits. During severe storms, tree roots help to manage flooding and coastal/riparian erosion by soaking up water and stabilizing soil. Trees help reduce strain on local sewer systems, especially combined sewer systems where flooding events can negatively affect water quality and lead to public health concerns.  By infiltrating water where it falls, trees help replenish groundwater reserves, relieving stress on local water supplies and reducing the need to import potable water.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn20\" name=\"_ednref20\">[20]</a> Consequently, trees can lessen the impact of droughts.</p>\n<p>In the event of a significant heat wave, shade-providing trees help to reduce the urban heat island effect, reduce indoor cooling loads, and reduce stress on the power grid. When emergency events disrupt regular supply and delivery networks, fruit producing trees can supplement local food supplies. Furthermore, properly sited and maintained trees can block buildings from severe winds and offer protection from extreme cold.</p>\n<p>Note that debris from storm-related tree damage and downed electric lines caused by wind, snow, and ice, flooding and lighting is often one of the most substantial storm-related expenses. Maintaining tree health through proper pruning, watering, and disease control can help prevent tree damage and preserve the many benefits of trees.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a> International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Trees Are Good. “Avoiding Tree Damage During Construction.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210413063426/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018.)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a> ISA. Trees Are Good. “Avoiding Tree Damage During Construction.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210413063426/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a> ISA. Trees are Good. “Tree Care Information:  Benefits of Trees.” <a href=\"https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/benefits_trees.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/benefits_trees.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a> Sustainable Urban Forests Coalition. “Urban Forests Curb Greenhouse Gases.” <a href=\"http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf\">http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a> US Forestry Service: Benefits of Trees. <a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/learn/trees\">https://www.fs.fed.us/learn/trees</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\">[7]</a> Colorado Tree Coalition.  “Education: Why Plant a Tree?”  <a href=\"http://coloradotrees.org/education/\">http://coloradotrees.org/education/</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\">[8]</a> Sustainable Urban Forests Coalition. “Urban Forests Curb Greenhouse Gases.” <a href=\"http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf\">http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\">[9]</a> US EPA.   “Heat Island Effect.”   <a href=\"http://www.epa.gov/heatisland/\">http://www.epa.gov/heatisland/</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\">[10]</a> Arbor Day Foundation.  “Benefits of Trees.” <a href=\"https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits.cfm\">https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits.cfm</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\">[11]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref12\" name=\"_edn12\">[12]</a> Kuo, F.E., &amp; Sullivan, W.C. (2001). <em>Environment and crime in the inner city: Does vegetation reduce crime?</em><em> </em><em>Environment and Behavior</em><em>,</em> 33(3), 343-367. <a href=\"http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm\">http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm</a> (accessed April 10, 2018)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref13\" name=\"_edn13\">[13]</a> Faber Taylor, A., Kuo, F.E., &amp; Sullivan, W.C. (2001). “Coping with ADD: The surprising connection to green play settings.” <em>Environment and Behavior</em>, 33(1), 54-77. <a href=\"http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm\">http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm</a> (accessed April 10, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref14\" name=\"_edn14\">[14]</a> Sullivan, W.C. &amp; F. E. Kuo.  Human-Environment Research Laboratory Department of</p>\n<p>Natural Resources and the Environmental Sciences University of Illinois at Urbana-</p>\n<p>Champaign.  “Do Trees Strengthen Urban Communities, Reduce Domestic Violence?”  January 1996.  <a href=\"http://www.aces.edu/urban/metronews/vol1no4/forestry.html\">http://www.aces.edu/urban/metronews/vol1no4/forestry.html</a>  (accessed April 10, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref15\" name=\"_edn15\">[15]</a> National Forest Foundation.  “New Research Proves Just How Green Urban Forests Are.” <a href=\"https://www.nationalforests.org/blog/green-urban-forests\">https://www.nationalforests.org/blog/green-urban-forests</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref16\" name=\"_edn16\">[16]</a> Jacobs, Allan B.  <em>Great Streets</em>.  Cambridge MA: MIT Press.  1995.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref17\" name=\"_edn17\">[17]</a> Center for Urban Horticulture, University of Washington, College of Forest Resources.  “Fact Sheet #5: Trees in Business Districts.”  <a href=\"http://www.naturewithin.info/CityBiz/Biz3Ps-FS5.pdf\">http://www.naturewithin.info/CityBiz/Biz3Ps-FS5.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref18\" name=\"_edn18\">[18]</a> US Forest Service, Center for Urban Forestry Research and Information.  “The Large Tree Argument.”  <a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/psw/topics/urban_forestry/products/cufr_511_large_tree_argument.pdf\">https://www.fs.fed.us/psw/topics/urban_forestry/products/cufr_511_large_tree_argument.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref19\" name=\"_edn19\">[19]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref20\" name=\"_edn20\">[20]</a> US EPA. Green Infrastructure: Climate Resiliency. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/green-infrastructure-climate-resiliency\">https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/green-infrastructure-climate-resiliency</a> (accessed April 25, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.17.3\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-biophilic-design/\">Biophilic Design</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-energy-efficient-landscaping/\">Energy-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-glare-and-heat-gain-reduction/\">Glare and Heat Gain Reduction</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-rain-gardens/\">Rain Gardens</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.arborday.org/treeguide/\">Arbor Day Foundation Tree Guide</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.treesaregood.org/\">International Society of Arboriculture – Trees Are Good</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.itreetools.org/\">I-Tree Tools</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://global.nature.org/?intc=glob_sol.topnav.logo\">The Nature Conservancy</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/forest/community/\">NJ DEP Division of Parks and Forestry – Community Forestry</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njtrees.org/\">NJ Tree Foundation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.phillywatersheds.org/what_were_doing/community_partnerships/programs/soak-it-adoption/green-stormwater-tools\">Philadelphia Water Department</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njaes.rutgers.edu/extension/\">Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.fs.usda.gov/ccrc/topics/urban-forests-and-climate-change\">Urban Forests and Climate Change</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/dg0604.html\">University of Minnesota Extension Service: Fitting Trees and Shrubs into the Landscape</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure\">US EPA Green Infrastructure</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/spf/coop/programs/wf/\">US Forest Service Watershed Forestry</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NC Tree Protection and Placement','','inherit','closed','closed','','1128-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:49:35','2022-06-23 17:49:35','',1128,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2488',0,'revision','',0),(2489,3,'2022-06-23 17:49:47','2022-06-23 17:49:47','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Tree Protection and Placement\" subhead=\"New Residential\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong>What is Tree Protection and Placement?</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees play an essential role in the overall environmental quality of a property. Protecting existing trees and properly siting new trees can increase the energy efficiency of a building design before considering mechanical enhancements or upgrades. Trees protect buildings by reducing energy loads, reducing interior glare, and blocking potentially harsh winds (see<span> </span><em>Glare and Heat Gain Reduction</em>). Trees also add aesthetic appeal, reduce stormwater runoff and soil erosion, and can improve air quality. It is essential to locate trees strategically. Trees can take 10-15 years to mature to a size that provides significant shade and protection, therefore protecting existing trees during construction is very important.</p>\n<p>Before construction begins, consult with an International Society for Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborist who can work with the project team to formulate a plan to protect existing trees. Symptoms of tree damage from construction may not be visible immediately but may appear years later. In planning for tree protection and determining necessary tree removals, consider the species, size, maturity, location, and condition of each tree.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a><span> </span>Sometimes saving a younger tree is more beneficial than saving a mature tree because they are better able to adapt to the disturbances of construction. It is essential to maintain a diversity of species and age of trees on the site.</p>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][caption id=\"attachment_432\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"596\"]<img class=\"wp-image-432 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Tree-Protection-and-Placement-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Drip line diagram (Source: Bracewell, Sara K. University of Minnesota – Sustainable Urban Landscape Information Series. “Protecting Existing Trees During Construction.”\" width=\"596\" height=\"572\" /> Figure 1 – Drip line diagram (Source: Bracewell, Sara K. University of Minnesota – Sustainable Urban Landscape Information Series. “Protecting Existing Trees During Construction.”[/caption][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong>How to Implement Tree Protection and Placement</strong></h2>\n<p>A tree protection plan should be created during design and enforced during construction. The plan should define parameters such as materials and dimensions of tree protection fencing required for all trees in the site protection plan. Fencing helps protect trees by keeping construction vehicles, equipment, and materials away from the tree. Penalties, such as a fine proportional to damages accrued, help construction workers adhere to the tree protection plan.</p>\n<p>When developing a strategy to preserve existing trees during site construction, it is essential to consider both the aboveground and belowground components of the trees. Machinery can damage the trunk and crown of a tree by breaking branches and gashing the trunk. When digging to install a foundation and utilities, roots are susceptible to being severed.  The majority of the roots of a tree are no more than a foot deep in the soil. However, in a mature tree, the root system can extend as far as 1 to 3 times the height of the tree.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a><span> </span>As Figure 1 illustrates, the drip line, a vertical plane extending from the perimeter of the crown to the ground, is the minimum area that should be left undisturbed when preserving a tree. Extending that boundary increases the likelihood of the tree’s survival. The closer the cut is made to the tree, the more damage the tree suffers.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a><span> </span>Removing roots also makes the tree more prone to falling over as they stabilize the tree in the ground.  If a utility line must run through the area of a tree, the International Society of Arboriculture recommends tunneling under the tree’s roots as opposed to running through them if possible.</p>\n<p>Although equipment may not always actually cut or physically damage a tree, it should never go within the drip line of a tree because the weight can cause the soil above the roots to compact and impair root development.  Adding or removing soil above the root system should be avoided to prevent smothering or rotting. When making changes to the grade of the soil, stay as far away from the trunk as possible. Exposing trees to the elements by removing nearby trees makes them vulnerable to damage from the sun and to breaking from wind and ice. All of these factors are important as trees require years to adjust to stresses caused by construction.  Continue to monitor and maintain trees and look out for any signs of poor health or safety hazards.  An arborist can provide guidance on how to properly maintain and treat any trees that have suffered damage.</p>\n<p><strong> </strong>Select trees carefully and maintain them as necessary to achieve maximum benefits.  To maximize energy savings associated with trees, plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of the building to lower air-conditioning costs in the summer.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a><span> </span>Locate trees so that they shade as much hardscape as possible. A commitment to the long-term care of trees is essential to maintaining their health. Consult an ISA-certified arborist for consultation and care.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a></p>\n<h3><strong>Example</strong></h3>\n<p><u>Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge</u></p>\n<p>A reconstruction project at Washington’s Headquarters included taking an inventory of existing trees, protecting historic trees, removing invasive species, and pruning and fertilizing remaining trees on the property.</p>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][caption id=\"attachment_420\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"912\"]<img class=\"wp-image-420 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Tree-Protection-and-Placement-Fig-2.png\" alt=\"Figure 2 – Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge, landscape treatment plan. (Source: Heritage Landscapes LLC).\" width=\"912\" height=\"612\" /> Figure 2 – Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge, landscape treatment plan. (Source: Heritage Landscapes LLC).[/caption][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees are essential to healthy, livable communities as they provide beauty, shade, and enhance a community’s quality of life. As described in further detail below, trees provide numerous benefits such as cleaning our air, reducing stormwater runoff, cooling buildings, and can even stimulate business in downtown areas by creating a more inviting and comfortable environment.</p>\n<p><u>Environment</u></p>\n<p><em>Absorption of Air Pollutants – </em>Preserving and increasing trees on site is a simple strategy for improving local air quality. Trees remove pollutants from the air by absorbing airborne particles and gaseous pollution. According to the US Forestry Service, 100 trees remove 53 tons of carbon dioxide and 430 pounds of other air pollutants per year.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<p><em>Carbon Sequestration – </em>Trees reduce greenhouse gases by storing carbon dioxide in their leaves, branches, trunks, and roots. They use carbon dioxide to form carbohydrates and cellulose for plant structure and function and release oxygen back into the atmosphere.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\">[7]</a><sup>,<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a></sup></p>\n<p><em>Reducing the Urban Heat Island Effect – </em>The high percentage of impervious surfaces in urban areas absorb heat and create what is known as the urban heat island effect; this causes the annual, mean air temperature of cities to be 5.4°F warmer than surrounding areas.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a> Trees help cool urban areas by shading pavement and absorbing excess urban heat, reducing the urban heat island effect. This same strategy can be applied in less densely built areas by shading hardscaped areas.</p>\n<p><em>Energy Conservation – </em>Trees strategically placed on-site can reduce the energy needed to cool and heat buildings. In the summertime, large trees on the west and east side of a building can save up to 30% of air-conditioning costs and allow units to operate more efficiently (see <em>Energy-Efficient Landscaping</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\">[10]</a></p>\n<p><em>Capturing Storm Water Runoff and Preventing Erosion – </em>Trees capture and absorb rainwater, reducing stormwater runoff. Tree roots also hold soil in place, preventing erosion (see <em>Rain Gardens</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\">[11]</a></p>\n<p><u>People</u></p>\n<p><em>Biophilia – </em>The presence of trees nurtures the inherent affinity that humans are believed to have with nature known as biophilia (see <em>Biophilic Design</em>). Well-treed environments have also been shown to reduce stressors in urban environments due to the beauty and serenity they convey. For instance, a study in a Chicago public housing development showed reduced crime levels in apartment buildings that were surrounded by greenery compared to the same buildings in barren landscapes.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn12\" name=\"_ednref12\">[12]</a> Another study showed that exposure to greener play environments reduced ADHD symptoms in children in the United States.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn13\" name=\"_ednref13\">[13]</a> Also, studies find a connection between the presence of trees and lower levels of violence.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn14\" name=\"_ednref14\">[14]</a></p>\n<p><em>Noise Reduction, Traffic Calming, and Pedestrian Safety – </em>Trees can serve as useful sound buffers. For example, a 98-foot-wide by 49-foot-tall tree belt can reduce highway noise pollution by 6 to 10 decibels.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn15\" name=\"_ednref15\">[15]</a> Trees also serve as physical barriers which protect pedestrians in high traffic areas. Since the presence of trees often indicates the presence of pedestrians, trees near roads help suppress the notion of a transportation corridor meant only for vehicles and can help calm traffic.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn16\" name=\"_ednref16\">[16]</a></p>\n<p><u>Economy</u></p>\n<p><em>Increased property values – </em>Property values have been found to increase by as much as 10%, according to the U.S. Forest Service, while the International Society of Arboriculture estimates a 5-20% increase in property value due to street trees.</p>\n<p><em>Increased Business in Shopping Districts – </em>A study conducted by University of Washington’s Center for Urban Horticulture found that the presence of trees and other vegetation positively influenced consumers’ perception of retail districts. Furthermore, shoppers spent more time shopping in downtown business districts that were well landscaped compared to those areas with little vegetation. Shoppers were also willing to pay more for parking and spend up to 11% more for goods and services in highly treed retail areas.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn17\" name=\"_ednref17\">[17]</a></p>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>On average, caring for a large tree costs $13/year but returns about $65 in energy savings, improved stormwater management, and higher property values.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn18\" name=\"_ednref18\">[18]</a></p>\n<p>The cost benefits of large, medium and small trees are as follows:<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn19\" name=\"_ednref19\">[19]</a></p>\n<p><em>Large Tree                                                         Medium Tree</em></p>\n<p>Total benefits/year = $55                                   Total benefits/year = $33</p>\n<p>Total costs/year = $18                                       Total costs/year = $17</p>\n<p>Net benefits/year = $37                                     Net benefits/year = $16</p>\n<p>Life expectancy = 120 years                              Life expectancy = 60 years</p>\n<p>Lifetime benefits = $6,600                               Lifetime benefits = $1,980</p>\n<p>Lifetime costs = $2,160                                     Lifetime costs = $1,020</p>\n<p>Value to community = $4,440                         Value to community = $960</p>\n<p><em>Small Tree</em></p>\n<p>Total benefits/year = $23</p>\n<p>Total costs/year = $14</p>\n<p>Net benefits/year = $9</p>\n<p>Life expectancy = 30 years</p>\n<p>Lifetime benefits = $690</p>\n<p>Lifetime costs = $420</p>\n<p>Value to community = $270</p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees provide multiple resiliency benefits. During severe storms, tree roots help to manage flooding and coastal/riparian erosion by soaking up water and stabilizing soil. Trees help reduce strain on local sewer systems, especially combined sewer systems where flooding events can negatively affect water quality and lead to public health concerns.  By infiltrating water where it falls, trees help replenish groundwater reserves, relieving stress on local water supplies and reducing the need to import potable water.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn20\" name=\"_ednref20\">[20]</a> Consequently, trees can lessen the impact of droughts.</p>\n<p>In the event of a significant heat wave, shade-providing trees help to reduce the urban heat island effect, reduce indoor cooling loads, and reduce stress on the power grid. When emergency events disrupt regular supply and delivery networks, fruit producing trees can supplement local food supplies. Furthermore, properly sited and maintained trees can block buildings from severe winds and offer protection from extreme cold.</p>\n<p>Note that debris from storm-related tree damage and downed electric lines caused by wind, snow, and ice, flooding and lighting is often one of the most substantial storm-related expenses. Maintaining tree health through proper pruning, watering, and disease control can help prevent tree damage and preserve the many benefits of trees.</p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a> International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Trees Are Good. “Avoiding Tree Damage During Construction.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210413063426/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018.)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a> ISA. Trees Are Good. “Avoiding Tree Damage During Construction.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210413063426/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a> ISA. Trees are Good. “Tree Care Information:  Benefits of Trees.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210616160250/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/benefits_trees.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/benefits_trees.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a> Sustainable Urban Forests Coalition. “Urban Forests Curb Greenhouse Gases.” <a href=\"http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf\">http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a> US Forestry Service: Benefits of Trees. <a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/learn/trees\">https://www.fs.fed.us/learn/trees</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\">[7]</a> Colorado Tree Coalition.  “Education: Why Plant a Tree?”  <a href=\"http://coloradotrees.org/education/\">http://coloradotrees.org/education/</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\">[8]</a> Sustainable Urban Forests Coalition. “Urban Forests Curb Greenhouse Gases.” <a href=\"http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf\">http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\">[9]</a> US EPA.   “Heat Island Effect.”   <a href=\"http://www.epa.gov/heatisland/\">http://www.epa.gov/heatisland/</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\">[10]</a> Arbor Day Foundation.  “Benefits of Trees.” <a href=\"https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits.cfm\">https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits.cfm</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\">[11]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref12\" name=\"_edn12\">[12]</a> Kuo, F.E., &amp; Sullivan, W.C. (2001). <em>Environment and crime in the inner city: Does vegetation reduce crime?</em><em> </em><em>Environment and Behavior</em><em>,</em> 33(3), 343-367. <a href=\"http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm\">http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm</a> (accessed April 10, 2018)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref13\" name=\"_edn13\">[13]</a> Faber Taylor, A., Kuo, F.E., &amp; Sullivan, W.C. (2001). “Coping with ADD: The surprising connection to green play settings.” <em>Environment and Behavior</em>, 33(1), 54-77. <a href=\"http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm\">http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm</a> (accessed April 10, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref14\" name=\"_edn14\">[14]</a> Sullivan, W.C. &amp; F. E. Kuo.  Human-Environment Research Laboratory Department of Natural Resources and the Environmental Sciences University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  “Do Trees Strengthen Urban Communities, Reduce Domestic Violence?”  January 1996.  <a href=\"http://www.aces.edu/urban/metronews/vol1no4/forestry.html\">http://www.aces.edu/urban/metronews/vol1no4/forestry.html</a>  (accessed April 10, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref15\" name=\"_edn15\">[15]</a> National Forest Foundation.  “New Research Proves Just How Green Urban Forests Are.” <a href=\"https://www.nationalforests.org/blog/green-urban-forests\">https://www.nationalforests.org/blog/green-urban-forests</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref16\" name=\"_edn16\">[16]</a> Jacobs, Allan B.  <em>Great Streets</em>.  Cambridge MA: MIT Press.  1995.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref17\" name=\"_edn17\">[17]</a> Center for Urban Horticulture, University of Washington, College of Forest Resources.  “Fact Sheet #5: Trees in Business Districts.”  <a href=\"http://www.naturewithin.info/CityBiz/Biz3Ps-FS5.pdf\">http://www.naturewithin.info/CityBiz/Biz3Ps-FS5.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref18\" name=\"_edn18\">[18]</a> US Forest Service, Center for Urban Forestry Research and Information.  “The Large Tree Argument.”  <a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/psw/topics/urban_forestry/products/cufr_511_large_tree_argument.pdf\">https://www.fs.fed.us/psw/topics/urban_forestry/products/cufr_511_large_tree_argument.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref19\" name=\"_edn19\">[19]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref20\" name=\"_edn20\">[20]</a> US EPA. Green Infrastructure: Climate Resiliency. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/green-infrastructure-climate-resiliency\">https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/green-infrastructure-climate-resiliency</a> (accessed April 25, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-biophilic-design/\">Biophilic Design</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-energy-efficient-landscaping/\">Energy-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-glare-and-heat-gain-reduction/\">Glare and Heat Gain Reduction</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-rain-gardens/\">Rain Gardens</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.arborday.org/treeguide/\">Arbor Day Foundation Tree Guide</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.treesaregood.org/\">International Society of Arboriculture – Trees Are Good</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.itreetools.org/\">I-Tree Tools</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://global.nature.org/?intc=glob_sol.topnav.logo\">The Nature Conservancy</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/forest/community/\">NJ DEP Division of Parks and Forestry – Community Forestry</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njtrees.org/\">NJ Tree Foundation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.phillywatersheds.org/what_were_doing/community_partnerships/programs/soak-it-adoption/green-stormwater-tools\">Philadelphia Water Department</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njaes.rutgers.edu/extension/\">Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.fs.usda.gov/ccrc/topics/urban-forests-and-climate-change\">Urban Forests and Climate Change</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/dg0604.html\">University of Minnesota Extension Service: Fitting Trees and Shrubs into the Landscape</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure\">US EPA Green Infrastructure</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/spf/coop/programs/wf/\">US Forest Service Watershed Forestry</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NR Tree Protection and Placement','','inherit','closed','closed','','1258-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:49:47','2022-06-23 17:49:47','',1258,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2489',0,'revision','',0),(2490,3,'2022-06-23 17:49:49','2022-06-23 17:49:49','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Tree Protection and Placement\" subhead=\"New Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong>What is Tree Protection and Placement?</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees play an essential role in the overall environmental quality of a property. Protecting existing trees and properly siting new trees can increase the energy efficiency of a building design before considering mechanical enhancements or upgrades. Trees protect buildings by reducing energy loads, reducing interior glare, and blocking potentially harsh winds (see <em>Glare and Heat Gain Reduction</em>). Trees also add aesthetic appeal, reduce stormwater runoff and soil erosion, and can improve air quality. It is essential to locate trees strategically. Trees can take 10-15 years to mature to a size that provides significant shade and protection, therefore protecting existing trees during construction is very important.</p>\n<p>Before construction begins, consult with an International Society for Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborist who can work with the project team to formulate a plan to protect existing trees. Symptoms of tree damage from construction may not be visible immediately but may appear years later. In planning for tree protection and determining necessary tree removals, consider the species, size, maturity, location, and condition of each tree.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a> Sometimes saving a younger tree is more beneficial than saving a mature tree because they are better able to adapt to the disturbances of construction. It is essential to maintain a diversity of species and age of trees on the site.</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_432\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"596\"]<img class=\"wp-image-432 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Tree-Protection-and-Placement-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Drip line diagram (Source: Bracewell, Sara K. University of Minnesota – Sustainable Urban Landscape Information Series. “Protecting Existing Trees During Construction.”\" width=\"596\" height=\"572\" /> Figure 1 – Drip line diagram (Source: Bracewell, Sara K. University of Minnesota – Sustainable Urban Landscape Information Series. “Protecting Existing Trees During Construction.”[/caption]\n<h2><strong>How to Implement Tree Protection and Placement</strong></h2>\n<p><strong> </strong>A tree protection plan should be created during design and enforced during construction. The plan should define parameters such as materials and dimensions of tree protection fencing required for all trees in the site protection plan. Fencing helps protect trees by keeping construction vehicles, equipment, and materials away from the tree. Penalties, such as a fine proportional to damages accrued, help construction workers adhere to the tree protection plan.</p>\n<p>When developing a strategy to preserve existing trees during site construction, it is essential to consider both the aboveground and belowground components of the trees. Machinery can damage the trunk and crown of a tree by breaking branches and gashing the trunk. When digging to install a foundation and utilities, roots are susceptible to being severed.  The majority of the roots of a tree are no more than a foot deep in the soil. However, in a mature tree, the root system can extend as far as 1 to 3 times the height of the tree.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a> As Figure 1 illustrates, the drip line, a vertical plane extending from the perimeter of the crown to the ground, is the minimum area that should be left undisturbed when preserving a tree. Extending that boundary increases the likelihood of the tree’s survival. The closer the cut is made to the tree, the more damage the tree suffers.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a> Removing roots also makes the tree more prone to falling over as they stabilize the tree in the ground.  If a utility line must run through the area of a tree, the International Society of Arboriculture recommends tunneling under the tree’s roots as opposed to running through them if possible.</p>\n<p>Although equipment may not always actually cut or physically damage a tree, it should never go within the drip line of a tree because the weight can cause the soil above the roots to compact and impair root development.  Adding or removing soil above the root system should be avoided to prevent smothering or rotting. When making changes to the grade of the soil, stay as far away from the trunk as possible. Exposing trees to the elements by removing nearby trees makes them vulnerable to damage from the sun and to breaking from wind and ice. All of these factors are important as trees require years to adjust to stresses caused by construction.  Continue to monitor and maintain trees and look out for any signs of poor health or safety hazards.  An arborist can provide guidance on how to properly maintain and treat any trees that have suffered damage.</p>\n<p><strong> </strong>Select trees carefully and maintain them as necessary to achieve maximum benefits.  To maximize energy savings associated with trees, plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of the building to lower air-conditioning costs in the summer.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a> Locate trees so that they shade as much hardscape as possible. A commitment to the long-term care of trees is essential to maintaining their health. Consult an ISA-certified arborist for consultation and care.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a></p>\n<h3><strong>Example</strong></h3>\n<p><u>Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge</u></p>\n<p>A reconstruction project at Washington’s Headquarters included taking an inventory of existing trees, protecting historic trees, removing invasive species, and pruning and fertilizing remaining trees on the property.</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_420\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"912\"]<img class=\"wp-image-420 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Tree-Protection-and-Placement-Fig-2.png\" alt=\"Figure 2 – Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge, landscape treatment plan. (Source: Heritage Landscapes LLC).\" width=\"912\" height=\"612\" /> Figure 2 – Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge, landscape treatment plan. (Source: Heritage Landscapes LLC).[/caption]\n<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees are essential to healthy, livable communities as they provide beauty, shade, and enhance a community’s quality of life. As described in further detail below, trees provide numerous benefits such as cleaning our air, reducing stormwater runoff, cooling buildings, and can even stimulate business in downtown areas by creating a more inviting and comfortable environment.</p>\n<p><u>Environment</u></p>\n<p><em>Absorption of Air Pollutants – </em>Preserving and increasing trees on site is a simple strategy for improving local air quality. Trees remove pollutants from the air by absorbing airborne particles and gaseous pollution. According to the US Forestry Service, 100 trees remove 53 tons of carbon dioxide and 430 pounds of other air pollutants per year.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<p><em>Carbon Sequestration – </em>Trees reduce greenhouse gases by storing carbon dioxide in their leaves, branches, trunks, and roots. They use carbon dioxide to form carbohydrates and cellulose for plant structure and function and release oxygen back into the atmosphere.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\">[7]</a><sup>,<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a></sup></p>\n<p><em>Reducing the Urban Heat Island Effect – </em>The high percentage of impervious surfaces in urban areas absorb heat and create what is known as the urban heat island effect; this causes the annual, mean air temperature of cities to be 5.4°F warmer than surrounding areas.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a> Trees help cool urban areas by shading pavement and absorbing excess urban heat, reducing the urban heat island effect. This same strategy can be applied in less densely built areas by shading hardscaped areas.</p>\n<p><em>Energy Conservation – </em>Trees strategically placed on-site can reduce the energy needed to cool and heat buildings. In the summertime, large trees on the west and east side of a building can save up to 30% of air-conditioning costs and allow units to operate more efficiently (see <em>Energy-Efficient Landscaping</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\">[10]</a></p>\n<p><em>Capturing Storm Water Runoff and Preventing Erosion – </em>Trees capture and absorb rainwater, reducing stormwater runoff. Tree roots also hold soil in place, preventing erosion (see <em>Rain Gardens</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\">[11]</a></p>\n<p><u>People</u></p>\n<p><em>Biophilia – </em>The presence of trees nurtures the inherent affinity that humans are believed to have with nature known as biophilia (see <em>Biophilic Design</em>). Well-treed environments have also been shown to reduce stressors in urban environments due to the beauty and serenity they convey. For instance, a study in a Chicago public housing development showed reduced crime levels in apartment buildings that were surrounded by greenery compared to the same buildings in barren landscapes.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn12\" name=\"_ednref12\">[12]</a> Another study showed that exposure to greener play environments reduced ADHD symptoms in children in the United States.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn13\" name=\"_ednref13\">[13]</a> Also, studies find a connection between the presence of trees and lower levels of violence.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn14\" name=\"_ednref14\">[14]</a></p>\n<p><em>Noise Reduction, Traffic Calming, and Pedestrian Safety – </em>Trees can serve as useful sound buffers. For example, a 98-foot-wide by 49-foot-tall tree belt can reduce highway noise pollution by 6 to 10 decibels.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn15\" name=\"_ednref15\">[15]</a> Trees also serve as physical barriers which protect pedestrians in high traffic areas. Since the presence of trees often indicates the presence of pedestrians, trees near roads help suppress the notion of a transportation corridor meant only for vehicles and can help calm traffic.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn16\" name=\"_ednref16\">[16]</a></p>\n<p><u>Economy</u></p>\n<p><em>Increased property values – </em>Property values have been found to increase by as much as 10%, according to the U.S. Forest Service, while the International Society of Arboriculture estimates a 5-20% increase in property value due to street trees.</p>\n<p><em>Increased Business in Shopping Districts – </em>A study conducted by University of Washington’s Center for Urban Horticulture found that the presence of trees and other vegetation positively influenced consumers’ perception of retail districts. Furthermore, shoppers spent more time shopping in downtown business districts that were well landscaped compared to those areas with little vegetation. Shoppers were also willing to pay more for parking and spend up to 11% more for goods and services in highly treed retail areas.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn17\" name=\"_ednref17\">[17]</a></p>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>On average, caring for a large tree costs $13/year but returns about $65 in energy savings, improved stormwater management, and higher property values.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn18\" name=\"_ednref18\">[18]</a></p>\n<p>The cost benefits of large, medium and small trees are as follows:<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn19\" name=\"_ednref19\">[19]</a></p>\n<p><em>Large Tree                                                         Medium Tree</em></p>\n<p>Total benefits/year = $55                                   Total benefits/year = $33</p>\n<p>Total costs/year = $18                                       Total costs/year = $17</p>\n<p>Net benefits/year = $37                                     Net benefits/year = $16</p>\n<p>Life expectancy = 120 years                              Life expectancy = 60 years</p>\n<p>Lifetime benefits = $6,600                               Lifetime benefits = $1,980</p>\n<p>Lifetime costs = $2,160                                     Lifetime costs = $1,020</p>\n<p>Value to community = $4,440                         Value to community = $960</p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><em>Small Tree</em></p>\n<p>Total benefits/year = $23</p>\n<p>Total costs/year = $14</p>\n<p>Net benefits/year = $9</p>\n<p>Life expectancy = 30 years</p>\n<p>Lifetime benefits = $690</p>\n<p>Lifetime costs = $420</p>\n<p>Value to community = $270</p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees provide multiple resiliency benefits. During severe storms, tree roots help to manage flooding and coastal/riparian erosion by soaking up water and stabilizing soil. Trees help reduce strain on local sewer systems, especially combined sewer systems where flooding events can negatively affect water quality and lead to public health concerns.  By infiltrating water where it falls, trees help replenish groundwater reserves, relieving stress on local water supplies and reducing the need to import potable water.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn20\" name=\"_ednref20\">[20]</a> Consequently, trees can lessen the impact of droughts.</p>\n<p>In the event of a significant heat wave, shade-providing trees help to reduce the urban heat island effect, reduce indoor cooling loads, and reduce stress on the power grid. When emergency events disrupt regular supply and delivery networks, fruit producing trees can supplement local food supplies. Furthermore, properly sited and maintained trees can block buildings from severe winds and offer protection from extreme cold.</p>\n<p>Note that debris from storm-related tree damage and downed electric lines caused by wind, snow, and ice, flooding and lighting is often one of the most substantial storm-related expenses. Maintaining tree health through proper pruning, watering, and disease control can help prevent tree damage and preserve the many benefits of trees.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a> International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Trees Are Good. “Avoiding Tree Damage During Construction.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210413063426/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018.)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a> ISA. Trees Are Good. “Avoiding Tree Damage During Construction.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210413063426/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a> ISA. Trees are Good. “Tree Care Information:  Benefits of Trees.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210616160250/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/benefits_trees.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/benefits_trees.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a> Sustainable Urban Forests Coalition. “Urban Forests Curb Greenhouse Gases.” <a href=\"http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf\">http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a> US Forestry Service: Benefits of Trees. <a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/learn/trees\">https://www.fs.fed.us/learn/trees</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\">[7]</a> Colorado Tree Coalition.  “Education: Why Plant a Tree?”  <a href=\"http://coloradotrees.org/education/\">http://coloradotrees.org/education/</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\">[8]</a> Sustainable Urban Forests Coalition. “Urban Forests Curb Greenhouse Gases.” <a href=\"http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf\">http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\">[9]</a> US EPA.   “Heat Island Effect.”   <a href=\"http://www.epa.gov/heatisland/\">http://www.epa.gov/heatisland/</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\">[10]</a> Arbor Day Foundation.  “Benefits of Trees.” <a href=\"https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits.cfm\">https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits.cfm</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\">[11]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref12\" name=\"_edn12\">[12]</a> Kuo, F.E., &amp; Sullivan, W.C. (2001). <em>Environment and crime in the inner city: Does vegetation reduce crime?</em><em> </em><em>Environment and Behavior</em><em>,</em> 33(3), 343-367. <a href=\"http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm\">http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm</a> (accessed April 10, 2018)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref13\" name=\"_edn13\">[13]</a> Faber Taylor, A., Kuo, F.E., &amp; Sullivan, W.C. (2001). “Coping with ADD: The surprising connection to green play settings.” <em>Environment and Behavior</em>, 33(1), 54-77. <a href=\"http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm\">http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm</a> (accessed April 10, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref14\" name=\"_edn14\">[14]</a> Sullivan, W.C. &amp; F. E. Kuo.  Human-Environment Research Laboratory Department of</p>\n<p>Natural Resources and the Environmental Sciences University of Illinois at Urbana-</p>\n<p>Champaign.  “Do Trees Strengthen Urban Communities, Reduce Domestic Violence?”  January 1996.  <a href=\"http://www.aces.edu/urban/metronews/vol1no4/forestry.html\">http://www.aces.edu/urban/metronews/vol1no4/forestry.html</a>  (accessed April 10, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref15\" name=\"_edn15\">[15]</a> National Forest Foundation.  “New Research Proves Just How Green Urban Forests Are.” <a href=\"https://www.nationalforests.org/blog/green-urban-forests\">https://www.nationalforests.org/blog/green-urban-forests</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref16\" name=\"_edn16\">[16]</a> Jacobs, Allan B.  <em>Great Streets</em>.  Cambridge MA: MIT Press.  1995.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref17\" name=\"_edn17\">[17]</a> Center for Urban Horticulture, University of Washington, College of Forest Resources.  “Fact Sheet #5: Trees in Business Districts.”  <a href=\"http://www.naturewithin.info/CityBiz/Biz3Ps-FS5.pdf\">http://www.naturewithin.info/CityBiz/Biz3Ps-FS5.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref18\" name=\"_edn18\">[18]</a> US Forest Service, Center for Urban Forestry Research and Information.  “The Large Tree Argument.”  <a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/psw/topics/urban_forestry/products/cufr_511_large_tree_argument.pdf\">https://www.fs.fed.us/psw/topics/urban_forestry/products/cufr_511_large_tree_argument.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref19\" name=\"_edn19\">[19]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref20\" name=\"_edn20\">[20]</a> US EPA. Green Infrastructure: Climate Resiliency. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/green-infrastructure-climate-resiliency\">https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/green-infrastructure-climate-resiliency</a> (accessed April 25, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.17.3\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-biophilic-design/\">Biophilic Design</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-energy-efficient-landscaping/\">Energy-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-glare-and-heat-gain-reduction/\">Glare and Heat Gain Reduction</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-rain-gardens/\">Rain Gardens</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.arborday.org/treeguide/\">Arbor Day Foundation Tree Guide</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.treesaregood.org/\">International Society of Arboriculture – Trees Are Good</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.itreetools.org/\">I-Tree Tools</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://global.nature.org/?intc=glob_sol.topnav.logo\">The Nature Conservancy</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/forest/community/\">NJ DEP Division of Parks and Forestry – Community Forestry</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njtrees.org/\">NJ Tree Foundation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.phillywatersheds.org/what_were_doing/community_partnerships/programs/soak-it-adoption/green-stormwater-tools\">Philadelphia Water Department</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njaes.rutgers.edu/extension/\">Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.fs.usda.gov/ccrc/topics/urban-forests-and-climate-change\">Urban Forests and Climate Change</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/dg0604.html\">University of Minnesota Extension Service: Fitting Trees and Shrubs into the Landscape</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure\">US EPA Green Infrastructure</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/spf/coop/programs/wf/\">US Forest Service Watershed Forestry</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NC Tree Protection and Placement','','inherit','closed','closed','','1128-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:49:49','2022-06-23 17:49:49','',1128,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2490',0,'revision','',0),(2491,3,'2022-06-23 17:50:22','2022-06-23 17:50:22','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Tree Protection and Placement\" subhead=\"New Residential\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong>What is Tree Protection and Placement?</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees play an essential role in the overall environmental quality of a property. Protecting existing trees and properly siting new trees can increase the energy efficiency of a building design before considering mechanical enhancements or upgrades. Trees protect buildings by reducing energy loads, reducing interior glare, and blocking potentially harsh winds (see<span> </span><em>Glare and Heat Gain Reduction</em>). Trees also add aesthetic appeal, reduce stormwater runoff and soil erosion, and can improve air quality. It is essential to locate trees strategically. Trees can take 10-15 years to mature to a size that provides significant shade and protection, therefore protecting existing trees during construction is very important.</p>\n<p>Before construction begins, consult with an International Society for Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborist who can work with the project team to formulate a plan to protect existing trees. Symptoms of tree damage from construction may not be visible immediately but may appear years later. In planning for tree protection and determining necessary tree removals, consider the species, size, maturity, location, and condition of each tree.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a><span> </span>Sometimes saving a younger tree is more beneficial than saving a mature tree because they are better able to adapt to the disturbances of construction. It is essential to maintain a diversity of species and age of trees on the site.</p>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][caption id=\"attachment_432\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"596\"]<img class=\"wp-image-432 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Tree-Protection-and-Placement-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Drip line diagram (Source: Bracewell, Sara K. University of Minnesota – Sustainable Urban Landscape Information Series. “Protecting Existing Trees During Construction.”\" width=\"596\" height=\"572\" /> Figure 1 – Drip line diagram (Source: Bracewell, Sara K. University of Minnesota – Sustainable Urban Landscape Information Series. “Protecting Existing Trees During Construction.”[/caption][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong>How to Implement Tree Protection and Placement</strong></h2>\n<p>A tree protection plan should be created during design and enforced during construction. The plan should define parameters such as materials and dimensions of tree protection fencing required for all trees in the site protection plan. Fencing helps protect trees by keeping construction vehicles, equipment, and materials away from the tree. Penalties, such as a fine proportional to damages accrued, help construction workers adhere to the tree protection plan.</p>\n<p>When developing a strategy to preserve existing trees during site construction, it is essential to consider both the aboveground and belowground components of the trees. Machinery can damage the trunk and crown of a tree by breaking branches and gashing the trunk. When digging to install a foundation and utilities, roots are susceptible to being severed.  The majority of the roots of a tree are no more than a foot deep in the soil. However, in a mature tree, the root system can extend as far as 1 to 3 times the height of the tree.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a><span> </span>As Figure 1 illustrates, the drip line, a vertical plane extending from the perimeter of the crown to the ground, is the minimum area that should be left undisturbed when preserving a tree. Extending that boundary increases the likelihood of the tree’s survival. The closer the cut is made to the tree, the more damage the tree suffers.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a><span> </span>Removing roots also makes the tree more prone to falling over as they stabilize the tree in the ground.  If a utility line must run through the area of a tree, the International Society of Arboriculture recommends tunneling under the tree’s roots as opposed to running through them if possible.</p>\n<p>Although equipment may not always actually cut or physically damage a tree, it should never go within the drip line of a tree because the weight can cause the soil above the roots to compact and impair root development.  Adding or removing soil above the root system should be avoided to prevent smothering or rotting. When making changes to the grade of the soil, stay as far away from the trunk as possible. Exposing trees to the elements by removing nearby trees makes them vulnerable to damage from the sun and to breaking from wind and ice. All of these factors are important as trees require years to adjust to stresses caused by construction.  Continue to monitor and maintain trees and look out for any signs of poor health or safety hazards.  An arborist can provide guidance on how to properly maintain and treat any trees that have suffered damage.</p>\n<p><strong> </strong>Select trees carefully and maintain them as necessary to achieve maximum benefits.  To maximize energy savings associated with trees, plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of the building to lower air-conditioning costs in the summer.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a><span> </span>Locate trees so that they shade as much hardscape as possible. A commitment to the long-term care of trees is essential to maintaining their health. Consult an ISA-certified arborist for consultation and care.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a></p>\n<h3><strong>Example</strong></h3>\n<p><u>Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge</u></p>\n<p>A reconstruction project at Washington’s Headquarters included taking an inventory of existing trees, protecting historic trees, removing invasive species, and pruning and fertilizing remaining trees on the property.</p>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][caption id=\"attachment_420\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"912\"]<img class=\"wp-image-420 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Tree-Protection-and-Placement-Fig-2.png\" alt=\"Figure 2 – Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge, landscape treatment plan. (Source: Heritage Landscapes LLC).\" width=\"912\" height=\"612\" /> Figure 2 – Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge, landscape treatment plan. (Source: Heritage Landscapes LLC).[/caption][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees are essential to healthy, livable communities as they provide beauty, shade, and enhance a community’s quality of life. As described in further detail below, trees provide numerous benefits such as cleaning our air, reducing stormwater runoff, cooling buildings, and can even stimulate business in downtown areas by creating a more inviting and comfortable environment.</p>\n<p><u>Environment</u></p>\n<p><em>Absorption of Air Pollutants – </em>Preserving and increasing trees on site is a simple strategy for improving local air quality. Trees remove pollutants from the air by absorbing airborne particles and gaseous pollution. According to the US Forestry Service, 100 trees remove 53 tons of carbon dioxide and 430 pounds of other air pollutants per year.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<p><em>Carbon Sequestration – </em>Trees reduce greenhouse gases by storing carbon dioxide in their leaves, branches, trunks, and roots. They use carbon dioxide to form carbohydrates and cellulose for plant structure and function and release oxygen back into the atmosphere.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\">[7]</a><sup>,<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a></sup></p>\n<p><em>Reducing the Urban Heat Island Effect – </em>The high percentage of impervious surfaces in urban areas absorb heat and create what is known as the urban heat island effect; this causes the annual, mean air temperature of cities to be 5.4°F warmer than surrounding areas.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a> Trees help cool urban areas by shading pavement and absorbing excess urban heat, reducing the urban heat island effect. This same strategy can be applied in less densely built areas by shading hardscaped areas.</p>\n<p><em>Energy Conservation – </em>Trees strategically placed on-site can reduce the energy needed to cool and heat buildings. In the summertime, large trees on the west and east side of a building can save up to 30% of air-conditioning costs and allow units to operate more efficiently (see <em>Energy-Efficient Landscaping</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\">[10]</a></p>\n<p><em>Capturing Storm Water Runoff and Preventing Erosion – </em>Trees capture and absorb rainwater, reducing stormwater runoff. Tree roots also hold soil in place, preventing erosion (see <em>Rain Gardens</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\">[11]</a></p>\n<p><u>People</u></p>\n<p><em>Biophilia – </em>The presence of trees nurtures the inherent affinity that humans are believed to have with nature known as biophilia (see <em>Biophilic Design</em>). Well-treed environments have also been shown to reduce stressors in urban environments due to the beauty and serenity they convey. For instance, a study in a Chicago public housing development showed reduced crime levels in apartment buildings that were surrounded by greenery compared to the same buildings in barren landscapes.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn12\" name=\"_ednref12\">[12]</a> Another study showed that exposure to greener play environments reduced ADHD symptoms in children in the United States.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn13\" name=\"_ednref13\">[13]</a> Also, studies find a connection between the presence of trees and lower levels of violence.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn14\" name=\"_ednref14\">[14]</a></p>\n<p><em>Noise Reduction, Traffic Calming, and Pedestrian Safety – </em>Trees can serve as useful sound buffers. For example, a 98-foot-wide by 49-foot-tall tree belt can reduce highway noise pollution by 6 to 10 decibels.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn15\" name=\"_ednref15\">[15]</a> Trees also serve as physical barriers which protect pedestrians in high traffic areas. Since the presence of trees often indicates the presence of pedestrians, trees near roads help suppress the notion of a transportation corridor meant only for vehicles and can help calm traffic.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn16\" name=\"_ednref16\">[16]</a></p>\n<p><u>Economy</u></p>\n<p><em>Increased property values – </em>Property values have been found to increase by as much as 10%, according to the U.S. Forest Service, while the International Society of Arboriculture estimates a 5-20% increase in property value due to street trees.</p>\n<p><em>Increased Business in Shopping Districts – </em>A study conducted by University of Washington’s Center for Urban Horticulture found that the presence of trees and other vegetation positively influenced consumers’ perception of retail districts. Furthermore, shoppers spent more time shopping in downtown business districts that were well landscaped compared to those areas with little vegetation. Shoppers were also willing to pay more for parking and spend up to 11% more for goods and services in highly treed retail areas.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn17\" name=\"_ednref17\">[17]</a></p>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>On average, caring for a large tree costs $13/year but returns about $65 in energy savings, improved stormwater management, and higher property values.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn18\" name=\"_ednref18\">[18]</a></p>\n<p>The cost benefits of large, medium and small trees are as follows:<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn19\" name=\"_ednref19\">[19]</a></p>\n<p><em>Large Tree                                                         Medium Tree</em></p>\n<p>Total benefits/year = $55                                   Total benefits/year = $33</p>\n<p>Total costs/year = $18                                       Total costs/year = $17</p>\n<p>Net benefits/year = $37                                     Net benefits/year = $16</p>\n<p>Life expectancy = 120 years                              Life expectancy = 60 years</p>\n<p>Lifetime benefits = $6,600                               Lifetime benefits = $1,980</p>\n<p>Lifetime costs = $2,160                                     Lifetime costs = $1,020</p>\n<p>Value to community = $4,440                         Value to community = $960</p>\n<p><em>Small Tree</em></p>\n<p>Total benefits/year = $23</p>\n<p>Total costs/year = $14</p>\n<p>Net benefits/year = $9</p>\n<p>Life expectancy = 30 years</p>\n<p>Lifetime benefits = $690</p>\n<p>Lifetime costs = $420</p>\n<p>Value to community = $270</p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees provide multiple resiliency benefits. During severe storms, tree roots help to manage flooding and coastal/riparian erosion by soaking up water and stabilizing soil. Trees help reduce strain on local sewer systems, especially combined sewer systems where flooding events can negatively affect water quality and lead to public health concerns.  By infiltrating water where it falls, trees help replenish groundwater reserves, relieving stress on local water supplies and reducing the need to import potable water.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn20\" name=\"_ednref20\">[20]</a> Consequently, trees can lessen the impact of droughts.</p>\n<p>In the event of a significant heat wave, shade-providing trees help to reduce the urban heat island effect, reduce indoor cooling loads, and reduce stress on the power grid. When emergency events disrupt regular supply and delivery networks, fruit producing trees can supplement local food supplies. Furthermore, properly sited and maintained trees can block buildings from severe winds and offer protection from extreme cold.</p>\n<p>Note that debris from storm-related tree damage and downed electric lines caused by wind, snow, and ice, flooding and lighting is often one of the most substantial storm-related expenses. Maintaining tree health through proper pruning, watering, and disease control can help prevent tree damage and preserve the many benefits of trees.</p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a> International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Trees Are Good. “Avoiding Tree Damage During Construction.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210413063426/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018.)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a> ISA. Trees Are Good. “Avoiding Tree Damage During Construction.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210413063426/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a> ISA. Trees are Good. “Tree Care Information:  Benefits of Trees.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210616160250/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/benefits_trees.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/benefits_trees.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a> Sustainable Urban Forests Coalition. “Urban Forests Curb Greenhouse Gases.” <a href=\"http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf\">http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a> US Forestry Service: Benefits of Trees. <a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/learn/trees\">https://www.fs.fed.us/learn/trees</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\">[7]</a> Colorado Tree Coalition.  “Education: Why Plant a Tree?”  <a href=\"http://coloradotrees.org/education/\">http://coloradotrees.org/education/</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\">[8]</a> Sustainable Urban Forests Coalition. “Urban Forests Curb Greenhouse Gases.” <a href=\"http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf\">http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\">[9]</a> US EPA.   “Heat Island Effect.”   <a href=\"http://www.epa.gov/heatisland/\">http://www.epa.gov/heatisland/</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\">[10]</a> Arbor Day Foundation.  “Benefits of Trees.” <a href=\"https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits.cfm\">https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits.cfm</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\">[11]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref12\" name=\"_edn12\">[12]</a> Kuo, F.E., &amp; Sullivan, W.C. (2001). <em>Environment and crime in the inner city: Does vegetation reduce crime?</em><em> </em><em>Environment and Behavior</em><em>,</em> 33(3), 343-367. <a href=\"http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm\">http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm</a> (accessed April 10, 2018)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref13\" name=\"_edn13\">[13]</a> Faber Taylor, A., Kuo, F.E., &amp; Sullivan, W.C. (2001). “Coping with ADD: The surprising connection to green play settings.” <em>Environment and Behavior</em>, 33(1), 54-77. <a href=\"http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm\">http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm</a> (accessed April 10, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref14\" name=\"_edn14\">[14]</a> Sullivan, W.C. &amp; F. E. Kuo.  Human-Environment Research Laboratory Department of Natural Resources and the Environmental Sciences University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  “Do Trees Strengthen Urban Communities, Reduce Domestic Violence?”  January 1996.  <a href=\"http://www.aces.edu/urban/metronews/vol1no4/forestry.html\">http://www.aces.edu/urban/metronews/vol1no4/forestry.html</a>  (accessed April 10, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref15\" name=\"_edn15\">[15]</a> National Forest Foundation.  “New Research Proves Just How Green Urban Forests Are.” <a href=\"https://www.nationalforests.org/blog/green-urban-forests\">https://www.nationalforests.org/blog/green-urban-forests</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref16\" name=\"_edn16\">[16]</a> Jacobs, Allan B.  <em>Great Streets</em>.  Cambridge MA: MIT Press.  1995.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref17\" name=\"_edn17\">[17]</a> Center for Urban Horticulture, University of Washington, College of Forest Resources.  “Fact Sheet #5: Trees in Business Districts.”  <a href=\"http://www.naturewithin.info/CityBiz/Biz3Ps-FS5.pdf\">http://www.naturewithin.info/CityBiz/Biz3Ps-FS5.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref18\" name=\"_edn18\">[18]</a> US Forest Service, Center for Urban Forestry Research and Information.  “The Large Tree Argument.”  <a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/psw/topics/urban_forestry/products/cufr_511_large_tree_argument.pdf\">https://www.fs.fed.us/psw/topics/urban_forestry/products/cufr_511_large_tree_argument.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref19\" name=\"_edn19\">[19]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref20\" name=\"_edn20\">[20]</a> US EPA. Green Infrastructure: Climate Resiliency. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/green-infrastructure-climate-resiliency\">https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/green-infrastructure-climate-resiliency</a> (accessed April 25, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-biophilic-design/\">Biophilic Design</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-energy-efficient-landscaping/\">Energy-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-glare-and-heat-gain-reduction/\">Glare and Heat Gain Reduction</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-rain-gardens/\">Rain Gardens</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.arborday.org/treeguide/\">Arbor Day Foundation Tree Guide</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.treesaregood.org/\">International Society of Arboriculture – Trees Are Good</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.itreetools.org/\">I-Tree Tools</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://global.nature.org/?intc=glob_sol.topnav.logo\">The Nature Conservancy</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/forest/community/\">NJ DEP Division of Parks and Forestry – Community Forestry</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njtrees.org/\">NJ Tree Foundation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.phillywatersheds.org/what_were_doing/community_partnerships/programs/soak-it-adoption/green-stormwater-tools\">Philadelphia Water Department</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njaes.rutgers.edu/extension/\">Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.fs.usda.gov/ccrc/topics/urban-forests-and-climate-change\">Urban Forests and Climate Change</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/dg0604.html\">University of Minnesota Extension Service: Fitting Trees and Shrubs into the Landscape</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure\">US EPA Green Infrastructure</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.fs.usda.gov/fs-tags/watershed\">US Forest Service Watershed Forestry</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NR Tree Protection and Placement','','inherit','closed','closed','','1258-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:50:22','2022-06-23 17:50:22','',1258,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2491',0,'revision','',0),(2492,3,'2022-06-23 17:50:24','2022-06-23 17:50:24','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Tree Protection and Placement\" subhead=\"New Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong>What is Tree Protection and Placement?</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees play an essential role in the overall environmental quality of a property. Protecting existing trees and properly siting new trees can increase the energy efficiency of a building design before considering mechanical enhancements or upgrades. Trees protect buildings by reducing energy loads, reducing interior glare, and blocking potentially harsh winds (see <em>Glare and Heat Gain Reduction</em>). Trees also add aesthetic appeal, reduce stormwater runoff and soil erosion, and can improve air quality. It is essential to locate trees strategically. Trees can take 10-15 years to mature to a size that provides significant shade and protection, therefore protecting existing trees during construction is very important.</p>\n<p>Before construction begins, consult with an International Society for Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborist who can work with the project team to formulate a plan to protect existing trees. Symptoms of tree damage from construction may not be visible immediately but may appear years later. In planning for tree protection and determining necessary tree removals, consider the species, size, maturity, location, and condition of each tree.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a> Sometimes saving a younger tree is more beneficial than saving a mature tree because they are better able to adapt to the disturbances of construction. It is essential to maintain a diversity of species and age of trees on the site.</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_432\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"596\"]<img class=\"wp-image-432 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Tree-Protection-and-Placement-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Drip line diagram (Source: Bracewell, Sara K. University of Minnesota – Sustainable Urban Landscape Information Series. “Protecting Existing Trees During Construction.”\" width=\"596\" height=\"572\" /> Figure 1 – Drip line diagram (Source: Bracewell, Sara K. University of Minnesota – Sustainable Urban Landscape Information Series. “Protecting Existing Trees During Construction.”[/caption]\n<h2><strong>How to Implement Tree Protection and Placement</strong></h2>\n<p><strong> </strong>A tree protection plan should be created during design and enforced during construction. The plan should define parameters such as materials and dimensions of tree protection fencing required for all trees in the site protection plan. Fencing helps protect trees by keeping construction vehicles, equipment, and materials away from the tree. Penalties, such as a fine proportional to damages accrued, help construction workers adhere to the tree protection plan.</p>\n<p>When developing a strategy to preserve existing trees during site construction, it is essential to consider both the aboveground and belowground components of the trees. Machinery can damage the trunk and crown of a tree by breaking branches and gashing the trunk. When digging to install a foundation and utilities, roots are susceptible to being severed.  The majority of the roots of a tree are no more than a foot deep in the soil. However, in a mature tree, the root system can extend as far as 1 to 3 times the height of the tree.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a> As Figure 1 illustrates, the drip line, a vertical plane extending from the perimeter of the crown to the ground, is the minimum area that should be left undisturbed when preserving a tree. Extending that boundary increases the likelihood of the tree’s survival. The closer the cut is made to the tree, the more damage the tree suffers.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a> Removing roots also makes the tree more prone to falling over as they stabilize the tree in the ground.  If a utility line must run through the area of a tree, the International Society of Arboriculture recommends tunneling under the tree’s roots as opposed to running through them if possible.</p>\n<p>Although equipment may not always actually cut or physically damage a tree, it should never go within the drip line of a tree because the weight can cause the soil above the roots to compact and impair root development.  Adding or removing soil above the root system should be avoided to prevent smothering or rotting. When making changes to the grade of the soil, stay as far away from the trunk as possible. Exposing trees to the elements by removing nearby trees makes them vulnerable to damage from the sun and to breaking from wind and ice. All of these factors are important as trees require years to adjust to stresses caused by construction.  Continue to monitor and maintain trees and look out for any signs of poor health or safety hazards.  An arborist can provide guidance on how to properly maintain and treat any trees that have suffered damage.</p>\n<p><strong> </strong>Select trees carefully and maintain them as necessary to achieve maximum benefits.  To maximize energy savings associated with trees, plant deciduous trees on the south and west sides of the building to lower air-conditioning costs in the summer.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a> Locate trees so that they shade as much hardscape as possible. A commitment to the long-term care of trees is essential to maintaining their health. Consult an ISA-certified arborist for consultation and care.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a></p>\n<h3><strong>Example</strong></h3>\n<p><u>Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge</u></p>\n<p>A reconstruction project at Washington’s Headquarters included taking an inventory of existing trees, protecting historic trees, removing invasive species, and pruning and fertilizing remaining trees on the property.</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_420\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"912\"]<img class=\"wp-image-420 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Tree-Protection-and-Placement-Fig-2.png\" alt=\"Figure 2 – Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge, landscape treatment plan. (Source: Heritage Landscapes LLC).\" width=\"912\" height=\"612\" /> Figure 2 – Washington’s Headquarters at Valley Forge, landscape treatment plan. (Source: Heritage Landscapes LLC).[/caption]\n<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees are essential to healthy, livable communities as they provide beauty, shade, and enhance a community’s quality of life. As described in further detail below, trees provide numerous benefits such as cleaning our air, reducing stormwater runoff, cooling buildings, and can even stimulate business in downtown areas by creating a more inviting and comfortable environment.</p>\n<p><u>Environment</u></p>\n<p><em>Absorption of Air Pollutants – </em>Preserving and increasing trees on site is a simple strategy for improving local air quality. Trees remove pollutants from the air by absorbing airborne particles and gaseous pollution. According to the US Forestry Service, 100 trees remove 53 tons of carbon dioxide and 430 pounds of other air pollutants per year.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<p><em>Carbon Sequestration – </em>Trees reduce greenhouse gases by storing carbon dioxide in their leaves, branches, trunks, and roots. They use carbon dioxide to form carbohydrates and cellulose for plant structure and function and release oxygen back into the atmosphere.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\">[7]</a><sup>,<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a></sup></p>\n<p><em>Reducing the Urban Heat Island Effect – </em>The high percentage of impervious surfaces in urban areas absorb heat and create what is known as the urban heat island effect; this causes the annual, mean air temperature of cities to be 5.4°F warmer than surrounding areas.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a> Trees help cool urban areas by shading pavement and absorbing excess urban heat, reducing the urban heat island effect. This same strategy can be applied in less densely built areas by shading hardscaped areas.</p>\n<p><em>Energy Conservation – </em>Trees strategically placed on-site can reduce the energy needed to cool and heat buildings. In the summertime, large trees on the west and east side of a building can save up to 30% of air-conditioning costs and allow units to operate more efficiently (see <em>Energy-Efficient Landscaping</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\">[10]</a></p>\n<p><em>Capturing Storm Water Runoff and Preventing Erosion – </em>Trees capture and absorb rainwater, reducing stormwater runoff. Tree roots also hold soil in place, preventing erosion (see <em>Rain Gardens</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\">[11]</a></p>\n<p><u>People</u></p>\n<p><em>Biophilia – </em>The presence of trees nurtures the inherent affinity that humans are believed to have with nature known as biophilia (see <em>Biophilic Design</em>). Well-treed environments have also been shown to reduce stressors in urban environments due to the beauty and serenity they convey. For instance, a study in a Chicago public housing development showed reduced crime levels in apartment buildings that were surrounded by greenery compared to the same buildings in barren landscapes.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn12\" name=\"_ednref12\">[12]</a> Another study showed that exposure to greener play environments reduced ADHD symptoms in children in the United States.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn13\" name=\"_ednref13\">[13]</a> Also, studies find a connection between the presence of trees and lower levels of violence.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn14\" name=\"_ednref14\">[14]</a></p>\n<p><em>Noise Reduction, Traffic Calming, and Pedestrian Safety – </em>Trees can serve as useful sound buffers. For example, a 98-foot-wide by 49-foot-tall tree belt can reduce highway noise pollution by 6 to 10 decibels.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn15\" name=\"_ednref15\">[15]</a> Trees also serve as physical barriers which protect pedestrians in high traffic areas. Since the presence of trees often indicates the presence of pedestrians, trees near roads help suppress the notion of a transportation corridor meant only for vehicles and can help calm traffic.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn16\" name=\"_ednref16\">[16]</a></p>\n<p><u>Economy</u></p>\n<p><em>Increased property values – </em>Property values have been found to increase by as much as 10%, according to the U.S. Forest Service, while the International Society of Arboriculture estimates a 5-20% increase in property value due to street trees.</p>\n<p><em>Increased Business in Shopping Districts – </em>A study conducted by University of Washington’s Center for Urban Horticulture found that the presence of trees and other vegetation positively influenced consumers’ perception of retail districts. Furthermore, shoppers spent more time shopping in downtown business districts that were well landscaped compared to those areas with little vegetation. Shoppers were also willing to pay more for parking and spend up to 11% more for goods and services in highly treed retail areas.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn17\" name=\"_ednref17\">[17]</a></p>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>On average, caring for a large tree costs $13/year but returns about $65 in energy savings, improved stormwater management, and higher property values.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn18\" name=\"_ednref18\">[18]</a></p>\n<p>The cost benefits of large, medium and small trees are as follows:<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn19\" name=\"_ednref19\">[19]</a></p>\n<p><em>Large Tree                                                         Medium Tree</em></p>\n<p>Total benefits/year = $55                                   Total benefits/year = $33</p>\n<p>Total costs/year = $18                                       Total costs/year = $17</p>\n<p>Net benefits/year = $37                                     Net benefits/year = $16</p>\n<p>Life expectancy = 120 years                              Life expectancy = 60 years</p>\n<p>Lifetime benefits = $6,600                               Lifetime benefits = $1,980</p>\n<p>Lifetime costs = $2,160                                     Lifetime costs = $1,020</p>\n<p>Value to community = $4,440                         Value to community = $960</p>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><em>Small Tree</em></p>\n<p>Total benefits/year = $23</p>\n<p>Total costs/year = $14</p>\n<p>Net benefits/year = $9</p>\n<p>Life expectancy = 30 years</p>\n<p>Lifetime benefits = $690</p>\n<p>Lifetime costs = $420</p>\n<p>Value to community = $270</p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency</strong></h2>\n<p>Trees provide multiple resiliency benefits. During severe storms, tree roots help to manage flooding and coastal/riparian erosion by soaking up water and stabilizing soil. Trees help reduce strain on local sewer systems, especially combined sewer systems where flooding events can negatively affect water quality and lead to public health concerns.  By infiltrating water where it falls, trees help replenish groundwater reserves, relieving stress on local water supplies and reducing the need to import potable water.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_edn20\" name=\"_ednref20\">[20]</a> Consequently, trees can lessen the impact of droughts.</p>\n<p>In the event of a significant heat wave, shade-providing trees help to reduce the urban heat island effect, reduce indoor cooling loads, and reduce stress on the power grid. When emergency events disrupt regular supply and delivery networks, fruit producing trees can supplement local food supplies. Furthermore, properly sited and maintained trees can block buildings from severe winds and offer protection from extreme cold.</p>\n<p>Note that debris from storm-related tree damage and downed electric lines caused by wind, snow, and ice, flooding and lighting is often one of the most substantial storm-related expenses. Maintaining tree health through proper pruning, watering, and disease control can help prevent tree damage and preserve the many benefits of trees.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a> International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Trees Are Good. “Avoiding Tree Damage During Construction.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210413063426/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018.)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a> ISA. Trees Are Good. “Avoiding Tree Damage During Construction.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210413063426/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/AvoidingTreeDamage.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a> ISA. Trees are Good. “Tree Care Information:  Benefits of Trees.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20210616160250/https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/benefits_trees.pdf\">https://www.treesaregood.org/portals/0/docs/treecare/benefits_trees.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a> Sustainable Urban Forests Coalition. “Urban Forests Curb Greenhouse Gases.” <a href=\"http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf\">http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a> US Forestry Service: Benefits of Trees. <a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/learn/trees\">https://www.fs.fed.us/learn/trees</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\">[7]</a> Colorado Tree Coalition.  “Education: Why Plant a Tree?”  <a href=\"http://coloradotrees.org/education/\">http://coloradotrees.org/education/</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\">[8]</a> Sustainable Urban Forests Coalition. “Urban Forests Curb Greenhouse Gases.” <a href=\"http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf\">http://www.urbanforestcoalition.org/doc/SUFC_GHG_PolicyPaper.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\">[9]</a> US EPA.   “Heat Island Effect.”   <a href=\"http://www.epa.gov/heatisland/\">http://www.epa.gov/heatisland/</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\">[10]</a> Arbor Day Foundation.  “Benefits of Trees.” <a href=\"https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits.cfm\">https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits.cfm</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\">[11]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref12\" name=\"_edn12\">[12]</a> Kuo, F.E., &amp; Sullivan, W.C. (2001). <em>Environment and crime in the inner city: Does vegetation reduce crime?</em><em> </em><em>Environment and Behavior</em><em>,</em> 33(3), 343-367. <a href=\"http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm\">http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm</a> (accessed April 10, 2018)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref13\" name=\"_edn13\">[13]</a> Faber Taylor, A., Kuo, F.E., &amp; Sullivan, W.C. (2001). “Coping with ADD: The surprising connection to green play settings.” <em>Environment and Behavior</em>, 33(1), 54-77. <a href=\"http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm\">http://lhhl.illinois.edu/crime.htm</a> (accessed April 10, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref14\" name=\"_edn14\">[14]</a> Sullivan, W.C. &amp; F. E. Kuo.  Human-Environment Research Laboratory Department of</p>\n<p>Natural Resources and the Environmental Sciences University of Illinois at Urbana-</p>\n<p>Champaign.  “Do Trees Strengthen Urban Communities, Reduce Domestic Violence?”  January 1996.  <a href=\"http://www.aces.edu/urban/metronews/vol1no4/forestry.html\">http://www.aces.edu/urban/metronews/vol1no4/forestry.html</a>  (accessed April 10, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref15\" name=\"_edn15\">[15]</a> National Forest Foundation.  “New Research Proves Just How Green Urban Forests Are.” <a href=\"https://www.nationalforests.org/blog/green-urban-forests\">https://www.nationalforests.org/blog/green-urban-forests</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref16\" name=\"_edn16\">[16]</a> Jacobs, Allan B.  <em>Great Streets</em>.  Cambridge MA: MIT Press.  1995.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref17\" name=\"_edn17\">[17]</a> Center for Urban Horticulture, University of Washington, College of Forest Resources.  “Fact Sheet #5: Trees in Business Districts.”  <a href=\"http://www.naturewithin.info/CityBiz/Biz3Ps-FS5.pdf\">http://www.naturewithin.info/CityBiz/Biz3Ps-FS5.pdf</a> (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref18\" name=\"_edn18\">[18]</a> US Forest Service, Center for Urban Forestry Research and Information.  “The Large Tree Argument.”  <a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/psw/topics/urban_forestry/products/cufr_511_large_tree_argument.pdf\">https://www.fs.fed.us/psw/topics/urban_forestry/products/cufr_511_large_tree_argument.pdf</a>  (accessed March 21, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref19\" name=\"_edn19\">[19]</a> Ibid.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-tree-protection-and-placement/#_ednref20\" name=\"_edn20\">[20]</a> US EPA. Green Infrastructure: Climate Resiliency. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/green-infrastructure-climate-resiliency\">https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/green-infrastructure-climate-resiliency</a> (accessed April 25, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.17.3\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-biophilic-design/\">Biophilic Design</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-energy-efficient-landscaping/\">Energy-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-glare-and-heat-gain-reduction/\">Glare and Heat Gain Reduction</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-rain-gardens/\">Rain Gardens</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.arborday.org/treeguide/\">Arbor Day Foundation Tree Guide</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.treesaregood.org/\">International Society of Arboriculture – Trees Are Good</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.itreetools.org/\">I-Tree Tools</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://global.nature.org/?intc=glob_sol.topnav.logo\">The Nature Conservancy</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/forest/community/\">NJ DEP Division of Parks and Forestry – Community Forestry</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njtrees.org/\">NJ Tree Foundation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.phillywatersheds.org/what_were_doing/community_partnerships/programs/soak-it-adoption/green-stormwater-tools\">Philadelphia Water Department</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njaes.rutgers.edu/extension/\">Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.fs.usda.gov/ccrc/topics/urban-forests-and-climate-change\">Urban Forests and Climate Change</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/dg0604.html\">University of Minnesota Extension Service: Fitting Trees and Shrubs into the Landscape</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure\">US EPA Green Infrastructure</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.fs.usda.gov/fs-tags/watershed\">US Forest Service Watershed Forestry</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NC Tree Protection and Placement','','inherit','closed','closed','','1128-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:50:24','2022-06-23 17:50:24','',1128,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2492',0,'revision','',0),(2494,3,'2022-06-23 17:52:45','2022-06-23 17:52:45','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Turf Grass Reduction\" subhead=\"New Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>What is Turf Grass?</h2>\n<p>Turf grass refers to a form of grass used when growing a lawn and typically includes species such as bluegrass, rye, and fescue.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a> These species, referred to as conventional turf grass, grow evenly and to a uniform height when maintained. Conventional turf grass requires high levels of maintenance, irrigation, and fertilization to achieve a consistently green and manicured look. Turf grass had become common in the United States after post-World War II when it became a mainstream middle-class status symbol. At that time many types of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers were becoming commercially available.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a></p>\n<p>Alternatives to conventional turf grass lawns include replacing the lawn with native grasses or groundcover and reducing the size of the lawn by incorporating other types of natural landscaping or garden beds (see <em>Native and Adapted Plants</em>).). There are many varieties of groundcovers, including those that are edible or flowering. Groundcover refers to plants that, once established, form a uniform layer over the ground and require little to no maintenance. Native grasses are species of grass that are native to a particular area and climate. These grasses require less maintenance and are less susceptible to pests.</p>\n<p>[caption id=\"attachment_587\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"622\"]<img class=\"wp-image-587 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Turf-Grass-Reduction-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – An example of non-lawn outdoor space (Source: Ithaca College).\" width=\"622\" height=\"540\" /> Figure 1 – An example of non-lawn outdoor space (Source: Ithaca College).[/caption]</p>\n<p>Reasons to consider reducing the use of turf grass include:</p>\n<p><u>High Maintenance Requirements</u></p>\n<p>Lawns require frequent and sometimes costly maintenance. Lawn maintenance often involves hiring lawn care employees, purchasing fertilizers, and maintaining lawn care equipment. Lawns may require mowing multiple times a week during the peak growing season. During a drought, lawns require irrigation. Landscapes consume 9 billion gallons of water each day in the United States, mostly to irrigate lawns.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a></p>\n<p><u>High Pollution Outputs that Create Public Health Risks</u></p>\n<p>Lawn care chemicals can pose a threat to people, pets and the environment. Studies have found numerous adverse health consequences associated with the synthetic chemicals found in traditional lawn care products, especially for children due to their size, physiological development and proximity to the ground.</p>\n<p>Lawns can also contribute to water pollution as chemicals used to treat lawns combine with stormwater runoff and flow into freshwater supplies, adversely affecting plants and animal life. Many commercial lawns require frequent fertilization to maintain quality turf grass. Excessive fertilizer use can also lead to fertilizers entering sources of drinking water.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a></p>\n<p>Note that while conventional turf grass does help remove carbon dioxide from the air, the amount sequestered does not cancel out the greenhouse gas emissions produced from fertilizer production, mowing, leaf blowing and other lawn management practices.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a></p>\n<p><u>Lack of Biodiversity</u></p>\n<p>Conventional turf grass lawns lack biodiversity, an essential component of healthy ecosystems, and do not support a wide variety of birds, beneficial insects, small amphibians, and small land mammals.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<h2>How to Reduce Turf Grass</h2>\n<p>Turf grass accounts for 30-40 million acres of land in the United States.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\">[7]</a> Many fiscally and environmentally responsible alternatives to lawns exist such as minimizing turfgrass areas, using more eco-friendly grass species for remaining turf areas, and planting a wide variety of low-maintenance trees, shrubs, and perennials to create garden spaces, rain gardens, and native habitats (see <em>Rain Gardens</em>). When designing an alternative lawn, select eco-friendly grass and grass-like species such as native sedges and meadow mixes and limit turf areas for defining garden edges, active recreation areas, pathways between planting beds and other structural and functional purposes. <a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a> Native grasses and sedges can provide a low maintenance alternative with high ecological value.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a></p>\n<p><u>Use Groundcover</u></p>\n<p>Groundcovers refer to low-growing plants including native grasses and sedges but also include taller trees and shrubs that grow together to form dense vegetation. Choose groundcovers that require little maintenance and support wildlife.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\">[10]</a>  Increasing the size of shrub beds and adding groundcovers can facilitate the reduction of erosion and water runoff.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\">[11]</a> Select non-invasive groundcovers that do not threaten plant biodiversity or affect wildlife that depends on native species as a food source.</p>\n<ul>\n<li>To select an appropriate groundcover, talk with the local cooperative extension agent and refer to the <a href=\"http://www.npsnj.org/\">NJ Native Plant Society’s</a> listing of native and invasive species and the <a href=\"https://www.nwf.org/NativePlantFinder/About\">Native Plant Finder</a>. Native species often vary across regions, even within New Jersey. Note that the USDA identifies New Jersey as being in Hardiness Zones 5 through 7.</li>\n<li>To contain groundcovers, install an edge barrier such as a row of low bricks or wood frame. Extend edging a few inches into the soil to contain roots.</li>\n<li>Weed and mulch groundcover regularly, especially in the first year of planting.</li>\n<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/county/\">County Extension Offices</a> trains volunteer in each county through its Master Gardeners Program to provide guidance on lawn alternatives.</li>\n</ul>\n<p><u>Tips on Removing Lawn</u></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Use a sod cutter to remove sections of existing lawn gradually.</li>\n<li>Remove existing lawn but do not disturb the soil as turning the soil allows weeds to compete with the new native seedlings.</li>\n</ul>\n<p><u>Tips for Caring for Existing Lawns</u></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Keep mower at 2 1⁄2 inches, water in the early morning and de-thatch if thatch reaches more than 1⁄2 inch in thickness. Cutting lawns too short decreases root growth.</li>\n<li>Leave clippings on the lawn as a natural source of nitrogen for the soil, recycle the clippings or start a compost pile.</li>\n<li>Reduce water needs by mulching the garden beds around an existing lawn.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>Economic</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Decreases maintenance costs and reduces water bills. Once established, groundcovers appropriate to the site conditions require less upkeep than conventional turf grass.</li>\n<li>Reduces costs spent on fertilizers and pesticides.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Environmental</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Increases biodiversity and support of wildlife such as birds, insects, small amphibians, and small land mammals.</li>\n<li>Dense and short growing groundcover plants eliminate weeds, preserve moisture in the soil, and do not require mowing.</li>\n<li>Reduces the need for lawn irrigation (see <em>Water-Efficient Landscaping</em>).</li>\n<li>Groundcovers act as mulch, enhancing the soil.</li>\n<li>Groundcovers and native grasses require less maintenance to prevent soil erosion compared to turfgrass.</li>\n<li>Reduces toxic emissions released into the environment from lawnmowers.</li>\n<li>Reduces use of fossil fuels required by lawn and irrigation equipment.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Personal Wellness</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Saves time and labor.</li>\n<li>Connects people to the natural landscape.</li>\n<li>Creates a diverse and aesthetically pleasing outdoor environment.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>The cost of lawn alternatives varies depending on the type and size of the landscape. For example, cost per square foot of alternative groundcovers depends upon the type of plants chosen and the size of the groundcover. The higher initial cost of selecting plants specific to the site pays for itself over time through reduced maintenance costs compared to less adaptive and higher-maintenance turf grass.</p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency</strong></h2>\n<p>Replacing conventional turf grass with native plants and water-efficient landscaping promotes resiliency by decreasing water use and reducing the reliance and stress on municipal water infrastructure. Alternatives to turf grass can also increase groundwater infiltration, helping to slow stormwater runoff and reduce erosion during flooding events. Also, replacing turf grass with diverse native plants increases the biological diversity in a given area, which in turn, enhances the ability of the natural system to rebound after a disturbance.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a> American-Lawns. “Mixtures and Blends.” <a href=\"http://www.american-lawns.com/grasses/grass.html\">http://www.american-lawns.com/grasses/grass.html</a> (accessed March 22, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a> University of Delaware College of Agriculture &amp; Natural Resources. “Turf Grass Madness: Reasons to Reduce the Lawn in Your Landscape.”  <a href=\"http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Turf_Grass_Madness.pdf\">http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Turf_Grass_Madness.pdf</a> (accessed March 22, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a> U.S. EPA.  Outdoor Water Use in the United States.  <a href=\"https://19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/www3/watersense/pubs/outdoor.html\">https://19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/www3/watersense/pubs/outdoor.html</a> (accessed March 22, 2018)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a> US EPA, University of West Virginia. “Managing Turfgrass and Garden Fertilizer Application to Prevent Contamination of Drinking Water.” <a href=\"http://nesc.wvu.edu/smart/training/toolkit/page1/SWPPT_bulletins/turfgrass.pdf\">http://nesc.wvu.edu/smart/training/toolkit/page1/SWPPT_bulletins/turfgrass.pdf</a> (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a> University of California, Irvine.  Turfgrass. <a href=\"https://news.uci.edu/2010/01/19/turfgrass/\">https://news.uci.edu/2010/01/19/turfgrass/</a>  (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a> NJ DEP. 2015. New Jersey Natural Heritage Program. <a href=\"https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/natural/heritage/\">https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/natural/heritage/</a> (accessed Sept 20, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\">[7]</a> Earth Institute at Columbia University.  “The Problem of Lawns.” <a href=\"http://blogs.ei.columbia.edu/2010/06/04/the-problem-of-lawns/\">http://blogs.ei.columbia.edu/2010/06/04/the-problem-of-lawns/</a> (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\">[8]</a> Less Lawn. “Native Grass Lawns.” <a href=\"http://www.lesslawn.com/articles/article1010.html\">http://www.lesslawn.com/articles/article1010.html</a> (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\">[9]</a> The Nature Conservancy. Habitat Network. Native Grasses for your Native Lawn. <a href=\"http://content.yardmap.org/learn/native-grasses-for-your-native-lawn/\">http://content.yardmap.org/learn/native-grasses-for-your-native-lawn/</a> (accessed November 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\">[10]</a> University of Delaware College of Agriculture &amp; Natural Resources. “Groundcover Alternatives to Turf Grass.”  <a href=\"http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Groundcovers.pdf\">http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Groundcovers.pdf</a> (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\">[11]</a> Ibid.</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/\">Native and Adapted Plants</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/rain-gardens-and-cisterns/\">Rain Gardens</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-water-efficient-landscaping/\">Water-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.audubon.org/bird/at_home/pdf/AAHPA-21-32-Lawn.pdf\">Audubon Society – Lawn Alternatives</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.cleanwaternj.org/garden.html\">Clean Water NJ – In the Garden</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.jerseyyards.org/jersey-friendly-plants/\">Jersey-Friendly Yards</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.npsnj.org/\">Native Plant Society of New Jersey</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.nwf.org/NativePlantFinder/About\">Native Plant Finder</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://content.yardmap.org/learn/native-grasses-for-your-native-lawn/\">Nature Conservancy – Habitat Network</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.nj.gov/dep/watershedrestoration/waterbook_chp6.html\">NJ DEP Lawn and Garden Care</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/county/\">Rutgers NJ Agriculture Experiment Station</a>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/subcategory.php?cat=5&amp;sub=35\">Commercial Turfgrass and Landscape Maintenance Fact Sheets &amp; Bulletins</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.turf.rutgers.edu/\">Center for Turfgrass Science</a></li>\n</ul>\n</li>\n<li><a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/Rain_Gardens/RGWebsite/RainGardenManualofNJ.html\">Rutgers Water Resource Program – Rain Garden Manual of New Jersey</a></li>\n</ul>\n<p><strong>University Extension Services – Groundcovers</strong></p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Groundcovers.pdf\">Delaware</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/groundcover-list\">Maryland</a></li>\n</ul>\n<p>US Environmental Protection Agency</p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://archive.epa.gov/wastes/conserve/tools/greenscapes/web/html/brochure.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">US EPA Greenscapes: Environmentally Beneficial Landscaping</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NC Turf Grass Reduction','','inherit','closed','closed','','1134-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:52:45','2022-06-23 17:52:45','',1134,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2494',0,'revision','',0),(2495,3,'2022-06-23 17:56:23','2022-06-23 17:56:23','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Indoor Water Conservation\" subhead=\"New Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>What is Indoor Water Conservation?</h2>\n<p>Indoor water conservation refers to building operations, occupant behaviors and water-efficient fixtures and appliances that help to reduce overall water consumption in a building. The commercial and industrial building sector uses large quantities of water, with office buildings representing 9% of water use.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a> Figure 1 shows that the three most significant areas for potential water savings in office buildings are restrooms, cooling and heating, and landscape irrigation.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a></p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_76\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"800\"]<img class=\"wp-image-76 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Indoor-Water-Conservation-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1- End used of water in Commercial Office Buildings. (Source: US EPA WaterSense).\" width=\"800\" height=\"472\" /> Figure 1- End used of water in Commercial Office Buildings. (Source: US EPA WaterSense).[/caption]<p>New Jersey receives ample average rainfall of 45 inches per year, and the state’s geology supports the storage of large quantities of groundwater and surface water reservoirs. However, ongoing conservation efforts and water-efficient equipment upgrades can reduce the risk of water shortages and reduce costs associated with increasing population growth, aging water infrastructure, and climate change impacts such as droughts.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a></p>\n<p>Indoor water conservation generally addresses water use reductions in four areas:<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Reducing water losses associated with leaks.</li>\n<li>Increasing the water efficiency of fixtures, equipment, systems, and processes.</li>\n<li>Educating staff and occupants about water conservation to encourage water-saving behaviors.</li>\n<li>Reusing onsite wastewater for irrigation and non-potable uses.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>How to Implement Indoor Water Conservation</h2>\n<p>Implementing indoor water conservation depends on the functions of the building but typically includes:<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Installing water meters and sub-meters and leak detection sensors to track water usage, find and fix leaks and equipment failures, and identify opportunities for water savings (see <em>Smart Meters, and Smart Sensors and Controls</em>).</li>\n<li>Specifying low-flow, <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/watersense/watersense-products\">WaterSense</a> certified fixtures such as toilets, showers, faucets, and aerators, and energy-efficient, <a href=\"https://www.energystar.gov/products?s=mega\">EnergyStar</a> certified appliances, such as dishwashers and clothes washers, that also conserve water (see <em>Energy Star Equipment and Plug Load</em>).</li>\n<li>Properly maintaining HVAC systems to minimize water used for cooling equipment, eliminating single-pass cooling, and optimizing boiler and steam systems by reusing excess steam.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></li>\n<li>Minimizing irrigation or recovering wastewater for irrigation and uses that do not require potable water such as toilet and urinal flushing, and cooling tower make-up water (see <em>Water Efficient Landscaping, Rain Barrels and Cisterns, On-Site Alternative Water Reuse</em>).</li>\n<li>Educating staff and occupants on water conservation efforts and procedures to ensure the proper use of water-saving equipment (e.g., instructions for dual flush toilets) and to help identify water saving opportunities (e.g., hotlines for leak reporting).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\">[7]</a></li>\n</ul>\n<h3>Example</h3>\n<p>US EPA WaterSense for Commercial Buildings – Case Studies</p>\n<p>The US EPA WaterSense program provides case studies from across the country and within the commercial and industrial sector that document water efficiency efforts and best practices outlined in <em><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-02/documents/watersense-at-work_final_508c3.pdf\">WaterSense at Work: Best Management Practices for Commercial and Institutional Facilities</a></em> including detailed descriptions of the project and associated water, energy and cost savings.</p>\n<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>Indoor water conservation reduces the strain on natural water resources and ensures future water supplies.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a> Water saving fixtures and appliances save money on water and energy bills without sacrificing performance, the latter savings due to the significant amount of energy often used to heat water.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a> For example, WaterSense certified fixtures and appliances save 20% more water than standard products.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\">[10]</a> EnergyStar certified commercial dishwashers use 40% less water and energy than standard models.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\">[11]</a> Indoor water conservation can also reduce the costs and the amount of energy required to treat, pump, and transport water and wastewater.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_edn12\" name=\"_ednref12\">[12]</a></p>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>The rising cost over the last decade of water and wastewater services can make minor investments in water conservation strategies and technologies cost-effective based on the savings alone from reduced water bills.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_edn13\" name=\"_ednref13\">[13]</a> Factoring in savings from reduced energy bills further reduces payback periods.</p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency</strong></h2>\n<p>Indoor water conservation enhances resiliency by reducing impacts from droughts and other instances of water scarcity. Water use reductions also decrease the reliance and stress on the entire municipal water infrastructure including groundwater pumping, and water and wastewater treatment and distribution, reducing the likelihood of system overload and failure.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_edn14\" name=\"_ednref14\">[14]</a></p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a> US EPA WaterSense. 2018. Types of Facilities. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/watersense/types-facilities\">https://www.epa.gov/watersense/types-facilities</a> (accessed Oct 25, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a> US EPA WaterSense. 2012. Saving Water in Office Buildings. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-01/documents/ws-commercial-factsheet-offices.pdf\">https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-01/documents/ws-commercial-factsheet-offices.pdf</a> (accessed Oct 25, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a> New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, 2017, New Jersey Water Supply Plan 2017-2022: 484p, <a href=\"http://www.nj.gov/dep/watersupply/wsp.html\">http://www.nj.gov/dep/watersupply/wsp.html</a> (accessed Oct 25, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a> US EPA WaterSense. 2012. WaterSense at Work: Best Management Practices for Commercial and Institutional Facilities. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-02/documents/watersense-at-work_final_508c3.pdf\">https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-02/documents/watersense-at-work_final_508c3.pdf</a>   (accessed Oct 26, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a> US EPA WaterSense. 2018. Types of Facilities. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/watersense/types-facilities\">https://www.epa.gov/watersense/types-facilities</a> (accessed Oct 25, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a> US EPA. 2017. Water Management and Best Practices at EPA. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/greeningepa/water-management-plans-and-best-practices-epa\">https://www.epa.gov/greeningepa/water-management-plans-and-best-practices-epa</a> (accessed Oct 25, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\">[7]</a> Joseph Bourg. 2016. Water Conservation. Whole Building Design Guide – A Program of the National Institute of Building Science. <a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation\">https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation</a> (accessed Oct 26, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\">[8]</a> NJ DEP Division of Water Supply and Geoscience. 2018. The Case for Water Conservation in New Jersey. <a href=\"https://www.state.nj.us/dep/watersupply/conserve.htm\">https://www.state.nj.us/dep/watersupply/conserve.htm</a> (accessed Oct 26, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\">[9]</a> US EPA WaterSense. 2012. Best Management Practices for Commercial and Institutional Facilities.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-01/documents/ws-commercial-factsheet-general-ci.pdf\">https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-01/documents/ws-commercial-factsheet-general-ci.pdf</a>  (accessed Oct 26, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\">[10]</a> US EPA WaterSense. 2017. Statistics and Facts: WaterSense and Water Savings. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/watersense/statistics-and-facts\">https://www.epa.gov/watersense/statistics-and-facts</a> (accessed Oct 26, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\">[11]</a> US DOE EnergyStar. 2018. Dishwashers. <a href=\"https://www.energystar.gov/products/appliances/dishwashers\">https://www.energystar.gov/products/appliances/dishwashers</a> (accessed Oct 26, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_ednref12\" name=\"_edn12\">[12]</a> NJ DEP Division of Water Supply and Geoscience. 2018. The Case for Water Conservation in New Jersey. <a href=\"https://www.state.nj.us/dep/watersupply/conserve.htm\">https://www.state.nj.us/dep/watersupply/conserve.htm</a> (accessed Oct 26, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_ednref13\" name=\"_edn13\">[13]</a> Joseph Bourg. 2016. Water Conservation. Whole Building Design Guide – A Program of the National Institute of Building Science. <a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation\">https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation</a> (accessed Oct 26, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/#_ednref14\" name=\"_edn14\">[14]</a> Ibid.</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-energy-star-equipment-and-plug-loads/\">ENERGY STAR Equipment and Plugload</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/\">On-Site Alternative Water Reuse</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-rain-barrels-and-cisterns/\">Rain Barrels and Cisterns</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/smart-meters/\">Smart Meters</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-smart-sensors-and-controls/\">Smart Sensors and Controls</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-water-efficient-landscaping/\">Water-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.state.nj.us/dep/watersupply/conserve.htm\">NJ DEP Division of Water Supply and Geoscience</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.state.nj.us/dep/opsc/docs/guide_indoor_water_conservation.pdf\">NJ DEP Creating Sustainable Communities – Indoor Water Conservation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://njwatersavers.rutgers.edu\">NJ WaterSavers</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/watersense/commercial-buildings\">US EPA WaterSense for Commercial Buildings</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/greeningepa/water-conservation-epa\">US EPA – Water Conservation at EPA</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation\">Whole Building Design Guide (WBDG) – Water Conservation</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NC Indoor Water Conservation','','inherit','closed','closed','','1521-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:56:23','2022-06-23 17:56:23','',1521,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2495',0,'revision','',0),(2496,3,'2022-06-23 17:56:24','2022-06-23 17:56:24','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Native and Adapted Plants\" subhead=\"New Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2><strong><b>What are Native and Adapted Plants? </b></strong></h2>\n<p>Native plant species thrive naturally in a particular region, ecosystem or habitat without direct or indirect human actions.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> Adapted plants have evolved to the physical conditions such as soil, climate, and geology of a site but were not formally part of the natural ecosystem.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> Invasive plants grow quickly and aggressively, often displacing native plants and adversely impacting native wildlife, local food sources, and pollination.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a></p>\n<p>Landscaping with plants that are native and adapted to the Mid-Atlantic geographic region nurtures a diverse and healthy ecosystem and saves time and maintenance costs. Diverse native habitats resist disease, reduce the need for synthetic pesticides, increase biodiversity and provide habitat for native wildlife, reduce stormwater runoff and mitigate flooding, and provide an alternative to the time-consuming, energy-intensive, and water-inefficient practices of lawn and turf care (see <em><i>Turf Grass Reduction</i></em>).</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_24\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"424\"]<img class=\"wp-image-24 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Native-and-Adapated-Plants-Fig-1-1-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Example of a plant native to New Jersey – New Jersey Tea Ceanothus americanus (Source: US EPA)\" width=\"424\" height=\"608\" /> Figure 1 – Example of a plant native to New Jersey – New Jersey Tea Ceanothus americanus (Source: US EPA)[/caption]\n<h2><strong><b>How to Incorporate Native and Adapted Plants</b></strong></h2>\n<ol>\n<li>Assess existing site conditions: Is the site sunny or shaded? Flat or sloped? Is soil tight (clay) or loose (sand)? Drainage (quick or slow)? What is the existing vegetation on the site?</li>\n<li>Research local nurseries that specialize in native plants and contact nurseries in advance to obtain availability lists.</li>\n<li>Choose plants appropriate for the site conditions. The <u><a href=\"http://www.npsnj.org/pages/nativeplants_Plant_Lists.html\">Native Plant Society of New Jersey</a></u> provides a list of NJ native plants by County. Some projects may be eligible for the <u><a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/whipart03.htm#signup\">Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program</a></u>. Resources such as <u><a href=\"http://www.jerseyyards.org/jersey-friend-plants/\">Jersey-Friendly Yards</a></u> offer plant information and an easily searchable plant database.</li>\n<li>Site preparation: minimize disturbance to the natural landscape, test the soil, and amend the soil with compost when necessary.</li>\n<li>Install plants and water regularly until established (see <em><i>Water-Efficient Landscaping</i></em>).</li>\n<li>Create and implement a long-term land management plan for maintenance, including integrated pest management (see <em><i>Integrated Pest Management</i></em>).</li>\n</ol>\n<h2><strong><b>Benefits</b></strong></h2>\n<p>Incorporating native and adapted plants:</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Reduces the amount of water used in landscaping.</li>\n<li>Reduces use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, which contaminate water from runoff and pose a threat to humans, pets and the environment.</li>\n<li>Increases wildlife habitat and biodiversity.</li>\n<li>Reduces stormwater runoff and improves stormwater quality (replacing lawns and turf with natural vegetation maximizes stormwater absorption).</li>\n<li>Reduces the amount of landscape waste often generated from routine maintenance of a manicured landscape.</li>\n<li>Increases appreciation for regional, natural resources and sense of place.</li>\n<li>Saves maintenance cost (once established, native plants can be less costly to maintain than some non-native landscapes).</li>\n</ul>\n<h2><strong><b>Costs</b></strong></h2>\n<p>All landscapes require regular maintenance and a long-term maintenance plan. The cost of maintaining any landscape depends on the type of plants and the expectations for that landscape. Once established, native landscapes maintenance costs may be lower than some non-native landscapes.</p>\n<h2><strong><b>Resiliency </b></strong></h2>\n<p>In coastal areas, tidal estuaries and along rivers, native and adapted plants act as an essential buffer to encroaching water during flood periods while acting as a routine defense against beach erosion.  For example, American Beachgrass considered one of the best lines of shoreline defense against storms, may also help prevent increasing levels of brackish water from infiltrating water tables close to a salt-water body.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> In general, the root systems of native plants can reduce runoff and mitigate flooding.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> In the event of droughts, water-efficient landscapes designed with native and adapted plants add layers of protection against water scarcity. Native plants also increase biodiversity and provide habitat for native wildlife necessary for a healthy and resilient ecosystem that can better rebound after a disturbance.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a></p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\"><sup>[1]</sup></a> Audubon. Plant Natives. <u><a href=\"http://web4.audubon.org/bird/at_home/PlantNativeSpecies.html\">http://web4.audubon.org/bird/at_home/PlantNativeSpecies.html</a></u> (accessed April 2, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\"><sup>[2]</sup></a> Swearingen, J., K. Reshetiloff, B. Slattery, and S. Zwicker. 2010. National Park Service and U.S. Fish &amp; Wildlife Service. “Plant Invaders of Mid-Atlantic Natural Areas.”  Washington, D.C. <u><a href=\"http://www.nyis.info/user_uploads/files/Plant%20Invaders%20of%20Mid-Atlantic.pdf\">http://www.nyis.info/user_uploads/files/Plant%20Invaders%20of%20Mid-Atlantic.pdf</a></u> (accessed March 14, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\"><sup>[3]</sup></a> PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.  “Invasive Plants” <u><a href=\"http://www.dcnr.pa.gov/Conservation/WildPlants/InvasivePlants/Pages/default.aspx\">http://www.dcnr.pa.gov/Conservation/WildPlants/InvasivePlants/Pages/default.aspx</a></u>  (accessed March 14, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\"><sup>[4]</sup></a> Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. StormSmart Properties Fact Sheet 1: Artificial Dunes and Dune Nourishment.  <u><a href=\"http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/stormsmart-coasts/stormsmart-properties/fs-1-dunes.html\">http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/stormsmart-coasts/stormsmart-properties/fs-1-dunes.html</a></u> (accessed March 14, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\"><sup>[5]</sup></a> USDA Forest Service. Native Gardening.  <u><a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/Native_Plant_Materials/Native_Gardening/index.shtml\">https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/Native_Plant_Materials/Native_Gardening/index.shtml</a></u> (November 9, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\"><sup>[6]</sup></a> Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Why Native Plants. <u><a href=\"https://www.wildflower.org/about/why-native-plants\">https://www.wildflower.org/about/why-native-plants</a></u> (accessed November 4, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-integrated-pest-management/\">Integrated Pest Management</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/\">Turf Grass Reduction</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-water-efficient-landscaping/\">Water-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.i-cure.org/\">Center for Urban Restoration Ecology – A Collaboration between Rutgers University and Brooklyn Botanic Garden</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"https://www.cnt.org/tools/green-values-stormwater-toolbox\">Green Values Stormwater Toolbox</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.jerseyyards.org/jersey-friendly-plants/\">Jersey-Friendly Yards</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CEAM\">Native Plant Database</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.npsnj.org\">The Native Plant Society of New Jersey</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/fs1140/\">Rutgers – New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station – Incorporating Native Plants</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.maipc.org/PlantInvadersMidAtlanticNaturalAreas5thEdition.pdf\">Plant Invaders of Mid-Atlantic Natural Areas</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.sustainablesites.org\">Sustainable Sites Initiative</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/nrcs144p2_043594.pdf\">USDA and NRCS Aberdeen Plant Materials Center – Plants for Riparian Buffers</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"http://plants.usda.gov/\">USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"https://archive.epa.gov/wastes/conserve/tools/greenscapes/web/html/index.html\">US EPA Greenscapes</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NC Native and Adapted Plants','','inherit','closed','closed','','1622-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:56:24','2022-06-23 17:56:24','',1622,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2496',0,'revision','',0),(2497,3,'2022-06-23 17:56:24','2022-06-23 17:56:24','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Composting\" subhead=\"New Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2><strong>What is Composting? </strong></h2>\n<p>Composting is the natural conversion of organic materials into a useable soil amendment. Compost is the by-product of decaying organic matter like vegetable scraps. Material that can be composted (e.g., food scraps and landscape waste) make up 30% of the material we discard.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a> Composting this material instead of sending it to a landfill turns it into a useful resource that builds nutrient-rich organic soil. Vermicomposting is composting facilitated by worms (i.e., generally red wiggler worms <em>Eisenia foetida)</em>. The worms help expedite the breakdown of the organic matter; vermicomposting provides a space-saving option for offices and businesses with limited space.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a></p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_382\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"374\"]<img class=\"wp-image-382 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/EC-Composting-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Outdoor composting container (Source: Flickr solylunafamilia http://www.flickr.com/photos/solylunafamilia/2985709812/)\" width=\"374\" height=\"280\" /> Figure 1 – Outdoor composting container (Source: Flickr solylunafamilia http://www.flickr.com/photos/solylunafamilia/2985709812/)[/caption]\n<h2><strong>How to Implement Composting</strong></h2>\n<p>Organic matter can be collected separately to create compost including kitchen scraps (plant and animal), paper products, wood scraps and grass clippings. Grass clippings can also be left directly on the lawn. This saves time and helps recycle nutrients back into the soil.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a><sup>,<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a></sup> Depending on the volume and type of waste generated, there are two ways to compost non-lawn waste: choose a pick-up service or choose to compost waste and use it on site. The decision should be Based the decision to compose on how much organic matter you collect regularly, whether the space exists to convert refuse to compost, whether there is a need for nutrient-rich soil on-site (e.g.,  landscaping, planting, etc.), and whether waste is primarily plant (e.g., leaves and wood chips) or animal matter, and availability of a pick-up service in your area. Some municipalities offer composting drop-off/pick-up services (see <a href=\"https://www.hobokennj.gov/resources/compost\">Hoboken – Composting</a>). If dropping off materials, be sure to check what waste types are accepted at composting facilities: <a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/dep/dshw/rrtp/classcfc.htm\">NJ DEP Solid &amp; Hazardous Waste: Compost Facilities</a>. If composting is not possible on-site, local composting programs or community garden projects often accept items like grass clippings and food waste for their compost operations.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a> If composting in-house, plan for ongoing maintenance of the composting process.</p>\n<p><u>Outdoor Composting Process</u>:</p>\n<p>Compost outdoors with either a simple pile in the yard or a compost bin. First, decide on a location for the pile or bin that is shady and relatively dry. Collect roughly equal amounts of nitrogen-rich (e.g., food scraps) and carbon-rich (e.g., dead leaves, twigs) wastes. Add materials to the pile or bin as they are collected while also adding a little water each time. Once the pile is established, add grass clippings, green leaves, and mix to make sure the food scraps are inside the pile. Use the bin lid or a tarp to cover the pile to retain moisture and heat. When the material at the bottom of the pile is rich in organic matter and dark in color, it is ready to use. This could take anywhere from two months to a year, depending on the contents of the compost pile and the outdoor conditions.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<p><u>Indoor Composting Process</u>:<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\">[7]</a></p>\n<p>If outdoor space is limited or unavailable, composting can be done inside on a smaller scale. Purchase or build indoor compost bins, that when managed correctly, do not smell or attract pests.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a> Indoor composting can be performed in one of two ways: anaerobic (i.e., without oxygen) or aerobic (i.e., with oxygen). Choose from anaerobic composters that can be placed on a countertop or under a sink or aerobic composter that use a worm bin.  These can either be purchased or made quite easily.</p>\n<p>Building a Worm Bin (Vermicomposting)<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a></p>\n<ol>\n<li>In a plastic storage container, place about 8-12 inches of bedding material such as potting soil, leaves, grass clipping, and newspaper strips. Purchase worms, typically red wiggler, to place in the bin. In addition, drill several air holes into the lid of the bin and make sure the bedding is moist and loosely placed in the bin to ensure proper air circulation.</li>\n<li>Add about 1 lb of red worms to the bin.</li>\n<li>Place food scraps, except animal products (e.g., meat, grease, cheese, etc.) under the bedding. Worms can eat about 3 to 3.5 pounds of kitchen waste per week.</li>\n<li>Keep the bin covered to retain heat and moisture. Check the box every day or two for moisture. If the edges begin to look dry, add some water.</li>\n<li>Store the bin in a warm dark place since the worms do not like light and can freeze if it gets too cold.</li>\n<li>Harvest compost when it is a dark, rich color to use in a garden or in potted plants.</li>\n</ol>\n<p>Order worm bins or make them a plastic storage bin. For more information on worm bins and composting indoors visit: <a href=\"http://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/publication.asp?pid=FS805\">Rutgers Cooperative Research &amp; Extension</a></p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_285\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"592\"]<img class=\"wp-image-285 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/EC-Composting-Fig-2.png\" alt=\"Figure 2 – Typical Worm bin (source: Flickr vees http://www.flickr.com/photos/vees/2150446340/sizes/l/in/photostream/)\" width=\"592\" height=\"440\" /> Figure 2 – Typical Worm bin (source: Flickr vees http://www.flickr.com/photos/vees/2150446340/sizes/l/in/photostream/)[/caption]\n<h3><strong>Example</strong></h3>\n<p><a href=\"https://www.nj.gov/dep/dshw/recycling/wastewise/njwwcasestudy.pdf\">Campbell Soup Company Headquarters, Camden, NJ</a></p>\n<p>Campbell initiated a comprehensive waste reduction program, including composting, in 2014. That year, they diverted 2,776 tons of waste from going to the landfill through composting.</p>\n<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Saves money on waste management</li>\n<li>Reduces landfill waste; reducing the production of methane, a greenhouse gas (GHG).</li>\n<li>Improves landscapes through improved soil structure, stabilized pH and suppressing plant diseases<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\">[10]</a></li>\n<li>Provides opportunities to garden and grow produce on-site</li>\n</ul>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>The small up-front costs can be quickly offset by the benefits of waste reduction and the use of compost on-site instead of purchasing fertilizer.</p>\n<p>Full size outdoor bins can range in price from $26 – $500. For indoor composting activities, composter prices range from $40 – $300, and small simple collection canisters as low as $20.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\">[11]</a> Worm/vermicompost bins can be made relatively easily<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn12\" name=\"_ednref12\">[12]</a> or purchased (average $60-100 each)<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn13\" name=\"_ednref13\">[13]</a> and worms can be purchased for about $20-$40.00/lb (2 lbs to 1 lb of food scraps).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn14\" name=\"_ednref14\">[14]</a> Mature compost can also minimize the amount of fertilizer needed, therefore saving on the cost of purchasing fertilizer. Finally, in areas where garbage is collected on a pay per bag basis, reducing the amount of trash by composting food scraps and paper saves money in trash collection fees.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn15\" name=\"_ednref15\">[15]</a></p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency </strong></h2>\n<p>Composting increases local community resilience by reducing stress on the waste management system, emissions from landfill gas and trash burning, and the release of pollutants. Compost enhances soil health, tilth (or physical condition), aeration, and water holding capacity, which support healthy plant and microorganism populations that are more resilient to ecosystem disturbances.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_edn16\" name=\"_ednref16\">[16]</a> Composting also provides stormwater management and erosion control benefits.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a> US EPA. Composting <a href=\"http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/rrr/composting/basic.htm\">http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/rrr/composting/basic.htm</a> (accessed April 7, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a> US EPA. Vermicomposting. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/reducefoodwaste/types-composting-and-understanding-process#vermi\">https://www.epa.gov/reducefoodwaste/types-composting-and-understanding-process#vermi</a> (accessed April 8, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a> US EPA. Types of Compost and Understanding the Process. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/reducefoodwaste/types-composting-and-understanding-process\">https://www.epa.gov/reducefoodwaste/types-composting-and-understanding-process</a> (accessed April 8, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a> NJ DEP. NJ Manual on Composting Leaves and Management of Other Yard Trimmings. VI. Management of Other Yard Wastes: <em>A. Grass Clippings.</em> <a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/dep/dshw/rrtp/compost/manag.htm\">http://www.state.nj.us/dep/dshw/rrtp/compost/manag.htm</a> (accessed May 5, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a> One Green Planet. 7 Things to do with Compost if you don’t Garden. <a href=\"https://www.onegreenplanet.org/lifestyle/things-to-do-with-compost-if-you-dont-garden/\">https://www.onegreenplanet.org/lifestyle/things-to-do-with-compost-if-you-dont-garden/</a></p>\n<p><a href=\"http://www.epa.gov/greenhomes/reducewaste.htm\">http://www.epa.gov/greenhomes/reducewaste.htm</a> (accessed May 5, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a> US EPA, Wastes – Resource Conservation – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – Composting, <a href=\"http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/rrr/composting/index.htm\">http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/rrr/composting/index.htm</a> (accessed May 5, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\">[7]</a> Lower East Side Ecology Center: In-Vessel Composting System. <a href=\"https://www.lesecologycenter.org/programs/compost/\">https://www.lesecologycenter.org/programs/compost/</a> (accessed May 5, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\">[8]</a> US EPA. Wastes – Resource Conservation – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – Composting, <a href=\"http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/rrr/composting/index.htm\">http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/rrr/composting/index.htm</a> (accessed May 5, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\">[9]</a> Rutgers Cooperative Extension – Vermicomposting (Worm composting) fact sheet <a href=\"http://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/publication.asp?pid=FS805\">http://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/publication.asp?pid=FS805</a> (accessed May 5, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\">[10]</a> Lower East Side Ecology Center. Community Compost Program.  <a href=\"https://www.lesecologycenter.org/programs/compost/\">https://www.lesecologycenter.org/programs/compost/</a> (accessed May 5, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\">[11]</a> Based on a survey of several manufacturers</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref12\" name=\"_edn12\">[12]</a> US EPA. How to Create and Maintain an Indoor Worm Composting Bin. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/recycle/how-create-and-maintain-indoor-worm-composting-bin\">https://www.epa.gov/recycle/how-create-and-maintain-indoor-worm-composting-bin</a> (accessed May 5, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref13\" name=\"_edn13\">[13]</a> Based on a survey of several manufacturers</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref14\" name=\"_edn14\">[14]</a> Based on a survey of several suppliers</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref15\" name=\"_edn15\">[15]</a> US EPA. Sustainable Management of Food Basics. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/sustainable-management-food-basics\">https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/sustainable-management-food-basics</a> (accessed May 5, 2019).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-composting/#_ednref16\" name=\"_edn16\">[16]</a> Platt, Brenda. 2013. “Composting and Community Resilience. Institute for Local Self-Reliance PowerPoint presented for Prince George’s County Planning Department Speaker Series Upper Marlboro, MD, November 20, 2013. <a href=\"https://ilsr.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Composting-Community-Resilience.pdf\">https://ilsr.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Composting-Community-Resilience.pdf</a> (accessed May 7, 2019).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/\">Native and Adapted Plants</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-operator-and-occupant-training/\">Operator and Occupant Training</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/rain-gardens-and-cisterns/\">Rain gardens</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-source-reduction-and-recycling/\">Source Reduction and Recycling</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-sustainable-materials-2/\">Sustainable Materials</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/\">Turf Grass Reduction</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-vegetated-roofs/\">Vegetated Roofs</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-water-efficient-landscaping/\">Water-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n	<li><a href=\"https://ilsr.org/\">Institute for Local-Self Reliance</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"https://www.lesecologycenter.org/programs/compost/\">Lower East Side Ecology Center – Community Compost Program</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"https://www.nrdc.org/stories/composting-way-easier-you-think\">Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) – Composting is Way Easier Than You Think</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"https://www.nj.gov/dep/dshw/recycling/wastewise/njwwcasestudy.pdf\">NJ WasteWise – The Economic Benefits of Waste Reduction – WasteWise Case Studies from the Private and Public Sectors</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/dsny/docs/nyc-master-composter-manual-mcm.pdf\">NYC Master Composter Manual</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"http://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/subcategory.asp?cat=5&amp;sub=36\">Rutgers Agricultural Experiment Station- Rutgers Cooperative Extension</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"http://www.compostingcouncil.org/education/resources.php\">US Composting Council</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/recycle/how-create-and-maintain-indoor-worm-composting-bin\">US EPA – How to Create and Maintain an Indoor Worm Composting Bin</a></li>\n	<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/types-composting-and-understanding-process\">US EPA – Types of Composting and Understanding the Process</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NC Composting','','inherit','closed','closed','','1726-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:56:24','2022-06-23 17:56:24','',1726,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2497',0,'revision','',0),(2498,3,'2022-06-23 17:56:25','2022-06-23 17:56:25','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Site and Stormwater Management\" subhead=\"Existing Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>What is Site and Stormwater Management?</h2>\n<p>Site and stormwater management includes techniques for handling stormwater to avoid runoff, erosion, flooding and other harmful effects of uncontrolled water discharge as well as other site protection and resource conservation practices. Stormwater runoff occurs when precipitation, in all forms, falls on land or impervious surfaces and does not infiltrate into the ground. When the runoff flows over the land or impermeable surfaces, including paved surfaces and building rooftops, it combines with pollutants such as debris, chemicals, and sediments. This polluted stormwater can negatively affect the hydrology and water quality of local water sources, resulting in habitat modification and loss, increased flooding, decreased biological diversity, increased sedimentation and erosion, contaminated drinking water, and forced beach closings due to health threats to swimmers.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a></p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_268\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"548\"]<img class=\"wp-image-268 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/EC-Site-and-Stormwater-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Chicago City Hall rooftop garden (Source: Flickr)\" width=\"548\" height=\"406\" /> Figure 1 – Chicago City Hall rooftop garden (Source: Flickr)[/caption]<p>Site and stormwater management includes both Low Impact Development (also known as nonstructural strategies) and Green Infrastructure. Low Impact Development is the concept of designing a site to reduce the negative environmental impacts. Design techniques include<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Preserving stream buffers</li>\n<li>Minimizing the number of trees cut down during construction</li>\n<li>Reducing the use of heavy equipment</li>\n<li>Selecting soils and vegetation beneficial to the site</li>\n<li>Utilizing green infrastructure practices that treat stormwater through soil and vegetation</li>\n</ul>\n<p>The NJ Department of Environmental Protection’s <a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/dep/stormwater/bmp_manual2.htm\">Stormwater Best Management Practices Manual</a> provides guidance on Low Impact Development strategies for new and existing projects in New Jersey.</p>\n<p>Green Infrastructure refers to stormwater management practices that capture, filter, absorb, and reuse stormwater, restoring the natural water cycle, reducing stormwater runoff, promoting infiltration, and enhancing evapotranspiration.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a> For example, green infrastructure can effectively turn parking lot islands, street medians, tree planter boxes, and landscaped areas near buildings into specialized stormwater treatment systems. Developers and property owners can redesign parking lots to reduce impervious coverage and increase stormwater infiltration. Innovative site and stormwater management designs may also include vegetated or green roofs, methods for capturing and reusing rainwater, and the use of pervious paving materials in low traffic areas, parking areas, and walking paths.</p>\n<p>The <a href=\"http://www.nj.gov/dep/gi/More_Info.html\">NJ DEP’s Green Infrastructure for New Jersey</a> website provides informational fact sheets on common green infrastructure practices, including rain gardens/bioretention basins, grass swales, constructed gravel wetlands, and rain barrels. The <a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/GreenInfrastructureGuidanceManual.html\">Rutgers NJ Agricultural Experiment Station – Water Resources Program – Green Infrastructure Guidance Manual for New Jersey</a> provides detailed information for the identification, design, and implementation of green infrastructure practices throughout New Jersey.</p>\n<h2><strong>How to Integrate Site and Stormwater Management </strong></h2>\n<p><a href=\"https://new.usgbc.org/leed-v4\">Both LEED v4.1 Operations &amp; Maintenance (O+M),</a> and <a href=\"http://www.sustainablesites.org/\">SITES</a> require stormwater management as part of their certification systems. Under Sustainable Sites, LEED O+M awards points for rainwater and site management strategies. SITES offers a comprehensive, performance-based rating system for sustainable landscapes. SITES certification applies to new construction projects as well as existing sites that include significant renovations (with or without buildings). Projects constructed within the last two years with a minimum of 2,000 square feet qualify for certification.</p>\n<p>Existing commercial projects that impact the site should have a site protection plan included in the contract documents. A site protection plan protects the natural resources of a project site and adjacent areas and achieves compliance with local laws and codes. Existing trees and vegetation, healthy soils and natural hydrologic systems on a site are all valuable resources to consider protecting before a construction project begins.</p>\n<p>The sections below focus on the redesign of landscaping and incorporation of pervious paving materials, rain gardens, and vegetated roofs as ways to reduce a current commercial building’s stormwater runoff and incorporate best management practices for site development.</p>\n<p><u>Native and Adapted Plants</u></p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_89\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"424\"]<img class=\"wp-image-89 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Native-and-Adapated-Plants-Fig-1-.png\" alt=\"Figure 2 – Example of a plant native to New Jersey – New Jersey Tea Ceanothus americanus (Source: US EPA)\" width=\"424\" height=\"608\" /> Figure 2 – Example of a plant native to New Jersey – New Jersey Tea Ceanothus americanus (Source: US EPA)[/caption]<p>Consider incorporating a native NJ habitat with plants adapted for the site. A native plant species thrive naturally in a particular region, ecosystem or habitat without direct or indirect human actions.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a> Adapted plants have evolved to the physical conditions such as soil, climate, and geology of a site but were not formally part of the natural ecosystem.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a> Invasive plants grow quickly and aggressively, often displacing native plants and adversely impacting native wildlife, local food sources, and pollination.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<p>Landscaping with plants that are native and adapted to the Mid-Atlantic geographic region nurtures a diverse and healthy ecosystem and saves time and money on maintenance. Diverse native habitats resist disease and reduce the need for synthetic pesticides, increase biodiversity and provide habitat for native wildlife, reduce stormwater runoff and mitigate flooding, and provide an alternative to the time-consuming, energy-intensive, and water-inefficient practices of lawn and turf care.</p>\n<p>The <a href=\"http://www.npsnj.org/pages/nativeplants_Plant_Lists.html\">Native Plant Society of New Jersey</a> provides a list of NJ native plants by County.</p>\n<p>Some projects may be eligible for the <a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/whipart03.htm#signup\">Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program</a>. Resources such as <a href=\"http://www.jerseyyards.org/jersey-friend-plants/\">Jersey-Friendly Yards</a> offer plant information and an easily searchable plant database.</p>\n<p><u>Pervious Hardscape Materials</u></p>\n<p>Pervious paving systems absorb water rather than diverting water into underlying soils, reducing runoff and treating pollutants as water passes through soils and replenishes groundwater.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\">[7]</a> Pervious surfaces include pervious concrete, porous asphalt, interlocking concrete pavers, and grid pavers. Review municipal regulations for permission to use pervious paving materials and consult with local officials and Soil Conservation Districts.</p>\n<p>Using pervious hardscape materials reduces:</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Decrease the rate and quantity of stormwater runoff</li>\n<li>Reduces pollution of total suspended solids and nutrients in the soil</li>\n<li>Eliminates the need for or reduces the size of detention ponds, protecting open space and wildlife habitats</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Three types of pervious pavement systems include pervious concrete, porous asphalt, and interlocking concrete pavers. Proper installation and base materials such as open-grade crushed stone maximize the surface’s ability to absorb and store water.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a></p>\n<p>Maintenance and Tips:</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Consider using salvaged bricks or recycled stone pavers</li>\n<li>Look for a regionally-quarried stone to reduce transportation costs</li>\n<li>Prevent clogging by cleaning any soil deposited on pavement and vacuum (as necessary) twice each year</li>\n<li>Maintain planted areas adjacent to the pavement</li>\n</ul>\n<p><strong> </strong>For additional information regarding the design of pervious pavement, see the <a href=\"http://www.njstormwater.org/bmp_manual2.htm\">NJ DEP Stormwater Best Practices Manual</a> and the <a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/Green_Infrastructure_Guidance_Manual/2015-03-31_Manual.compressed.pdf\">Green Infrastructure Guidance Manual for NJ</a>.</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_383\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"690\"]<img class=\"wp-image-383 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/EC-Site-and-Stormwater-Fig-3.png\" alt=\"Figure 3- Schematic layer design of pervious hardscape; concrete pavers. (Source: Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute)\" width=\"690\" height=\"490\" /> Figure 3- Schematic layer design of pervious hardscape; concrete pavers. (Source: Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute)[/caption]<p><u>Rain Barrels and Cisterns</u></p>\n<p>Rain barrel and cistern systems collect, store, and distribute water for later use, providing a cost-effective and environmentally beneficial way to conserve water and minimize problems associated with stormwater runoff. Use rainwater collected in barrels and cisterns from catchment areas such as rooftops for irrigation, flushing toilets and other non-potable uses. Treat or filter the water depending on the intended use. Commercial applications often use cisterns or large-scale rain barrels.</p>\n<p>Standard components of a rain harvesting system include<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Catchment area such as a roof</li>\n<li>Gutters and downspouts</li>\n<li>Leaf screens</li>\n<li>Rain barrel or cistern for storage</li>\n<li>Conveyance system to deliver stored water via gravity or pump</li>\n<li>Water treatment or filter system</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Set aside sufficient space, either interior, above ground or underground, for the appropriately sized barrel or cistern. The size of rain barrels and cisterns varies from as small as 55-gallons to systems that hold thousands of gallons )which may require the use of an electric pump for distribution). To calculate the volume of water available for capture, assume that every 1,000 square feet of catchment area generates 600 gallons of runoff during a one-inch rainfall event.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\">[10]</a></p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\">Catchment Area * Inches of Rain * 600 gallons *0 .75</h3>\n<hr />\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\">1,000 square feet</h3>\n<p>Consider combining rain barrels and cisterns with a drip irrigation system to direct overflow to a dry well, rain garden or bio-retention area.</p>\n<p>Rain barrels require maintenance. Use water within two weeks to prevent algae growth and clean barrels every few months. A screen with a cover prevents algae growth and mosquito breeding. Drain, disconnect and store rain barrels during the winter months.</p>\n<p>For more detailed information about the design and construction of rain barrels and cisterns see the Rutgers Water Resources Program’s – <a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/Green_Infrastructure_Guidance_Manual/2015-03-31_Manual.compressed.pdf\">Green Infrastructure Manual for New Jersey</a>.</p>\n<p><u>Rain Gardens</u></p>\n<p>Rain gardens, also referred to as vegetated swales and bioswales, consist of sloped depressions in the landscape planted densely with native plants that can soak up and filter stormwater runoff from rooftops, streets, or parking lots. Rain garden vegetation absorbs and filters stormwater before it enters storm drains.</p>\n<p>Place rain gardens to capture runoff from a site effectively. Observe the site during the next rain and note where runoff problems exist. Consider the following:</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Does it come from a roof or downspout?</li>\n<li>Is there runoff from a parking lot?</li>\n<li>Does the runoff gravitate towards one place more than another?</li>\n</ul>\n<p>As a general rule of thumb, place the rain gardens at least 10 feet from building foundations if the structure has a basement; for buildings without basements, place rain gardens at least 2 feet from buildings.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\">[11]</a></p>\n<p>The <a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/Rain_Gardens/RGWebsite/demoraingardens.html\">Rutgers NJ Agricultural Experiment Station’s Water Resources Program</a> has installed over 125 demonstration rain gardens in New Jersey.</p>\n<p>For step-by-step guidance on installing a rain garden, see The Rutgers Water Resources Program and the Native Plant Society of New Jersey’s <a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/Rain_Gardens/RGWebsite/RainGardenManualofNJ.html\">Rain Garden Manual of New Jersey</a>.</p>\n<p><u>Vegetated Roofs </u></p>\n<p>A vegetated roof or green roof consists of vegetation in a lightweight growing medium placed on top of the drainage layer, root barrier, and waterproof membrane (see Figure 1). Vegetated roofs provide many environmental benefits such as decreased stormwater runoff and reduced energy use. They absorb air pollutants and provide a habitat for beneficial insects and birds, serve as a sound barrier, and mitigate the urban heat island effect. Use a pre-engineered green roof system or customize the green roof to achieve a project’s specific performance objectives. Vegetated roofs often weigh between 10-50 pounds per square foot. Consult a structural engineer and evaluate the strength of the roof before installing a vegetated roof on a building. Consider reinforcing the roof to support the added weight.</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_455\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"924\"]<img class=\"wp-image-455 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/EC-Site-and-Stormwater-Fig-5.png\" alt=\"Figure 5 – A cross-section of a vegetated roof (Source: New York City Department of Design &amp; Construction Cool and Green Roofing Manual)\" width=\"924\" height=\"538\" /> Figure 5 – A cross-section of a vegetated roof (Source: New York City Department of Design &amp; Construction Cool and Green Roofing Manual)[/caption]<p>The two primary categories of vegetated roofs include: extensive and intensive. Extensive vegetated roofs consist of lightweight systems with shallow soil (or other growing media)  depths usually less than 6 inches.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn12\" name=\"_ednref12\">[12]</a> Extensive vegetated roofs require less structural support than an intensive system and support a limited palette of hardy plants adapted to extreme environments that need little maintenance. Intensive vegetated roofs have deeper soil typically have more than 6″ of soil or other growing media, weigh more than extensive vegetated roofs, and can support a greater variety of plants. Intensive systems require more maintenance and a higher initial investment than an extensive roof.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn13\" name=\"_ednref13\">[13]</a></p>\n<p>Vegetated roofs can host a variety of plant species but typically include drought-tolerant species such as hardy succulents, sedums, and perennials. Consider low-maintenance, native species capable of living in the shallow soil. For a list of species indigenous to the Northeast, see <a href=\"https://www.nycgovparks.org/greening/greenbelt-native-plant-center/garden-species-lists/garden-green-roof\">NYC Greenbelt Native Plant Center</a> or <a href=\"http://www.npsnj.org/pages/nativeplants_Plant_Lists.html\">List of NJ Native Plants by County</a>.</p>\n<p>Vegetated roof requires some maintenance such as watering during the establishment period and occasional weeding. Seasonal pruning and cutting of grasses and annual plants reduce the accumulation of combustible material on the roof. Regularly inspect and maintain the components of the roof’s drainage system such as gutters, underdrains, and downspouts.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn14\" name=\"_ednref14\">[14]</a></p>\n<blockquote><p><strong>Blue roofs</strong> are systems designed to store and slowly release stormwater. Orifices, weirs, or other outlet devices manage and control the discharge rate of rooftop runoff, thereby reducing the size of downstream detention basins. Locations where the roof makes up a majority of the impervious surface area of the site, and where there is little room at the site for other stormwater management strategies make blue roofs most effective. </p>\n</blockquote>\n<p>For more information on blue roofs, see the <a href=\"http://www.njstormwater.org/bmp_manual2.htm\">NJ Stormwater Best Management Practices Manual – Chapter 9.8 Blue Roofs</a>.</p>\n<p><strong> </strong><u>Water-Efficient Landscaping </u></p>\n<p>Design landscapes that rely on natural rainfall and only require supplemental irrigation during the plants’ initial establishment period. Use native and appropriate non-native vegetation adapted to site conditions and climate. Group plants with similar water requirements to maximize irrigation efficiency and use climate-based controllers for irrigation systems to lower water consumption. Collect non-potable water for irrigation from sources such as rooftops, greywater, air conditioner condensate, or stormwater basins.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn15\" name=\"_ednref15\">[15]</a></p>\n<p>For more information, refer to US EPA’s WaterSense Water-Smart Landscaping Design Guide.</p>\n<h3><strong>Example of Site and Stormwater Management </strong></h3>\n<p><a href=\"http://www.hobokennj.gov/swpark/\">Southwest Park, Hoboken, NJ</a></p>\n<p>A one-acre park designed with green infrastructure such as bioswales, rain gardens, permeable pavement, and underground chambers that can store 200,000 gallons of stormwater runoff, South Park in Hoboken NJ helps reduce localized flooding in the surrounding neighborhood.</p>\n<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>Effective stormwater management can;<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn16\" name=\"_ednref16\">[16]</a></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Alleviate the rate and quantity of stormwater runoff, thus mitigates flooding.</li>\n<li>Protect wetlands and aquatic ecosystems</li>\n<li>Improve quality of receiving waterbodies</li>\n<li>Conserve water resources</li>\n<li>Protect public health</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>Costs</h2>\n<p>Natural areas lost to development and replaced with impervious surfaces require new and costly levees, pipes, and pollution-control technology to perform displaced ecosystem functions.</p>\n<p>The cost of site and stormwater management systems varies depending on the type of landscape and selection of strategies. For example, rain gardens vary in cost depending on the size of the roof and the selection of plants. According to the US EPA, estimated costs of installing a green roof average $10/sf for extensive roofing, and $25/sf for intensive roofs. Maintenance costs vary for either type of roof and may range from $0.75–$1.50/sf.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn17\" name=\"_ednref17\">[17]</a> The typical cost for institutional rain gardens ranges from $30-$40 per square foot depending on existing soil conditions, the selection of plants, and whether or not the project requires professional installation, organizes volunteers, or uses in-house personnel.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn18\" name=\"_ednref18\">[18]</a></p>\n<h2>Resiliency</h2>\n<p>Green infrastructure integrates resilient and green design to complement and reduce reliance on traditional “grey” infrastructure.</p>\n<p>In coastal areas, tidal estuaries and along rivers, native and adapted plants act as an essential buffer to encroaching water during flood periods while acting as a routine defense against beach erosion.  For example, American Beachgrass considered one of the best lines of shoreline defense against storms and may also help prevent increasing levels of brackish water from infiltrating water tables close to a salt-water body.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn19\" name=\"_ednref19\">[19]</a> In general, the root systems of native plants can reduce runoff and mitigate flooding.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn20\" name=\"_ednref20\">[20]</a>  In the event of droughts, water-efficient landscapes designed with native and adapted plants add layers of protection against water scarcity. Rain gardens designed with native and adapted plants support ecological resilience by increasing the biological diversity of plants and animals in a given area, which in turn, enhances the ability of the natural system to rebound after a disturbance.</p>\n<p>When massive storms, hurricanes, or droughts cause municipal water sources to shut down or pollute wells, rain barrels and cisterns can provide stockpiled water. Filter and purify before using the water to irrigate edible gardens, wash dishes, and or provide water for drinking and showering.</p>\n<p>Vegetated roofs can provide thermal insulation throughout all four seasons, reducing energy consumption and reliance on the electrical grid. In the event of a power outage, they can help keep temperatures cool in hot weather and warmer during the heating season. During heavy rainfalls and flooding events, vegetated roofs can help reduce stress on municipal stormwater infrastructure and reduce combined sewer overflows.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_edn21\" name=\"_ednref21\">[21]</a> Vegetated roofs can also offer local communities the opportunity to grow some of their food, reducing dependency on supply chains and transportation networks often disrupted or compromised from storms and other events.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a> US EPA National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Stormwater Program <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/npdes/npdes-stormwater-program\">https://www.epa.gov/npdes/npdes-stormwater-program</a> (accessed April 2, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a> NJ DEP. Green Infrastructure in NJ. Pervious Pavement. <a href=\"http://www.nj.gov/dep/gi/\">http://www.nj.gov/dep/gi/</a> (accessed April 3, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a> Rutgers NJ Agricultural Experiment Station – Water Resources Program – <em>Green Infrastructure Guidance Manual for New Jersey</em> <a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/GreenInfrastructureGuidanceManual.html\">http://water.rutgers.edu/GreenInfrastructureGuidanceManual.html</a> (accessed April 2, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a> Audubon. Plant Natives. <a href=\"http://web4.audubon.org/bird/at_home/PlantNativeSpecies.html\">http://web4.audubon.org/bird/at_home/PlantNativeSpecies.html</a> (accessed April 2, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a> Swearingen, J., K. Reshetiloff, B. Slattery, and S. Zwicker. 2010. National Park Service and U.S. Fish &amp; Wildlife Service. “Plant Invaders of Mid-Atlantic Natural Areas.”  Washington, D.C. <a href=\"http://www.nyis.info/user_uploads/files/Plant%20Invaders%20of%20Mid-Atlantic.pdf\">http://www.nyis.info/user_uploads/files/Plant%20Invaders%20of%20Mid-Atlantic.pdf</a> (accessed March 14, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a> PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.  “Invasive Plants” <a href=\"http://www.dcnr.pa.gov/Conservation/WildPlants/InvasivePlants/Pages/default.aspx\">http://www.dcnr.pa.gov/Conservation/WildPlants/InvasivePlants/Pages/default.aspx</a>  (accessed March 14, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\">[7]</a> NJ DEP. Green Infrastructure in NJ. Pervious Pavement. <a href=\"http://www.nj.gov/dep/gi/\">http://www.nj.gov/dep/gi/</a> (accessed April 3, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\">[8]</a> NJ DEP. New Jersey Stormwater Best Practices Manual. “Best Practices Standard for Pervious Paving Systems” <a href=\"http://www.nj.gov/dep/stormwater/pdf/2016-11-07-pervious-paving-final.pdf\">http://www.nj.gov/dep/stormwater/pdf/2016-11-07-pervious-paving-final.pdf</a> (accessed March 24, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\">[9]</a> US DOE | EERE. “Best Management Practices:  Alternate Water Sources.”  <a href=\"https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/best-management-practice-14-alternative-water-sources\">https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/best-management-practice-14-alternative-water-sources</a> (accessed April 2, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\">[10]</a> Rutgers Water Resources Program. Green Infrastructure Manual for NJ. <a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/Green_Infrastructure_Guidance_Manual/2015-03-31_Manual.compressed.pdf\">http://water.rutgers.edu/Green_Infrastructure_Guidance_Manual/2015-03-31_Manual.compressed.pdf</a> (accessed April 3, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\">[11]</a> The Rutgers Cooperative Extension Water Resources Program and the Native Plant Society of New Jersey’s Rain Garden Manual of New Jersey <a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/Rain_Gardens/RGWebsite/RainGardenManualofNJ.html\">http://water.rutgers.edu/Rain_Gardens/RGWebsite/RainGardenManualofNJ.html</a> (accessed April 2, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref12\" name=\"_edn12\">[12]</a> WBDG. Extensive Green Roofs. <a href=\"http://www.wbdg.org/resources/greenroofs.php\">http://www.wbdg.org/resources/greenroofs.php</a> (accessed April 2, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref13\" name=\"_edn13\">[13]</a> US EPA. “Reducing Urban Heat Islands: Compendium of Strategies- Green Roofs.” <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/heat-islands\">https://www.epa.gov/heat-islands</a>  (accessed April 2, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref14\" name=\"_edn14\">[14]</a> NJ Stormwater Best Management Practices Manual – Chapter 2: Low Impact Development Techniques. <a href=\"http://www.njstormwater.org/bmp_manual/NJ_SWMP_2%20print.pdf\">http://www.njstormwater.org/bmp_manual/NJ_SWMP_2 print.pdf</a> (accessed April 2, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref15\" name=\"_edn15\">[15]</a> Dr. Steve Windhager, University of Texas School of Architecture.  <em>Sustainable Sites </em> <a href=\"https://soa.utexas.edu/sites/default/disk/urban_ecosystems/urban_ecosystems/09_03_fa_windhager_calaci_ml.pdf\">https://soa.utexas.edu/sites/default/disk/urban_ecosystems/urban_ecosystems/09_03_fa_windhager_calaci_ml.pdf</a> (accessed April 15, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref16\" name=\"_edn16\">[16]</a> US EPA National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System – Problems with Stormwater Pollution. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/npdes/npdes-stormwater-program\">https://www.epa.gov/npdes/npdes-stormwater-program</a> (accessed April 3, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref17\" name=\"_edn17\">[17]</a> US EPA Heat Island Effect – Green Roofs <a href=\"http://www.epa.gov/heatisland/mitigation/greenroofs.htm\">http://www.epa.gov/heatisland/mitigation/greenroofs.htm</a> (accessed April 2, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref18\" name=\"_edn18\">[18]</a> Sustainble Jersey. 2017. Rain Gardens Action. <a href=\"http://www.sustainablejersey.com\">http://www.sustainablejersey.com</a> (accessed April 2, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref19\" name=\"_edn19\">[19]</a> Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs. StormSmart Properties Fact Sheet 1: Artificial Dunes and Dune Nourishment.  <a href=\"http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/stormsmart-coasts/stormsmart-properties/fs-1-dunes.html\">http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/czm/program-areas/stormsmart-coasts/stormsmart-properties/fs-1-dunes.html</a> (accessed March 14, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref20\" name=\"_edn20\">[20]</a> USDA Forest Service. Native Gardening. <a href=\"https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/Native_Plant_Materials/Native_Gardening/index.shtml\">https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/Native_Plant_Materials/Native_Gardening/index.shtml</a> (accessed November 9, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/ec-site-and-stormwater-management/#_ednref21\" name=\"_edn21\">[21]</a> GSA. 2011. The Benefits and Challenges of Green Roofs on Public and Commercial Buildings. <a href=\"https://www.gsa.gov/cdnstatic/The_Benefits_and_Challenges_of_Green_Roofs_on_Public_and_Commercial_Buildings.pdf\">https://www.gsa.gov/cdnstatic/The_Benefits_and_Challenges_of_Green_Roofs_on_Public_and_Commercial_Buildings.pdf</a> (accessed Sept 24, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/\">Native and Adapted Plants</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-pervious-hardscape-materials/\">Pervious Hardscape Materials</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-rain-barrels-and-cisterns/\">Rain Barrels and Cisterns</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-rain-barrels-and-cisterns/\">Rain Gardens</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-vegetated-roofs/\">Vegetated Roofs</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-water-efficient-landscaping/\">Water-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://greenvalues.cnt.org/national/calculator.php\">Center for Neighborhood Technology – Green Values Calculator</a></li>\n<li>U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2018). <em>Estimating the environmental effects of green roofs: A case study in Kansas City, Missouri. </em>EPA 430-S-18-001. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/heat-islands/using-green-roofs-reduce-heat-islands\">https://www.epa.gov/heat-islands/using-green-roofs-reduce-heat-islands</a></li>\n<li>Gaffin, S. R., Kong, A.Y.Y., De Mel, J.M., and Rosenzweig, C. 2017. <em>Green, White and Dark Roofs – The energy perspective. </em>New York, NY, USA: Center for Climate Systems Research at Columbia University and NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies.</li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenroofs.org/about-green-roofs/\">Green Roofs for Healthy Cities</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.jerseyyards.org/jersey-friendly-plants/\">Jersey-Friendly Yards</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.npsnj.org/pages/nativeplants_Plant_Lists.html\">Native Plant Society of New Jersey</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CEAM\">Native Plant Database</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.wef.org\">Water Environment Federation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://sustainablesites.org/\">The Sustainable Sites Initiative</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://developersguide.njfuture.org\">NJ Developers’ Green Infrastructure Guide</a></li>\n</ul>\n<p>NJ DEP</p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/dep/stormwater/\">Stormwater Management</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.nj.gov/dep/gi/\">Green Infrastructure</a></li>\n</ul>\n<p>Rutgers NJ Agricultural Experiment Station – Water Resources Program</p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/GreenInfrastructureGuidanceManual.html\">Green Infrastructure</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/Rain_Gardens/RGWebsite/raingardens.html\">Rain Gardens</a></li>\n</ul>\n<p>US EPA</p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure\">Green Infrastructure</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/sustainability/giwiz\">Green Infrastructure Wizard</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','EC Site and Stormwater Management','','inherit','closed','closed','','1873-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:56:25','2022-06-23 17:56:25','',1873,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2498',0,'revision','',0),(2499,3,'2022-06-23 17:56:26','2022-06-23 17:56:26','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"On-site Alternative Water Reuse\" subhead=\"New Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2><strong>What is On-site Alternative Water Reuse?<br /></strong></h2>\n<p>On-site alternative water reuse intentionally captures, treats, and utilizes stormwater, graywater, and wastewater for reuse at the building site. Stormwater includes precipitation such as rainfall and snowmelt. Graywater (also spelled gray water, greywater and grey water) refers to untreated water from bathroom sinks, laundry, and bathing and does not include water contaminated with toilet waste, food and grease content from kitchen sinks, or dishwasher soap residue.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a> Graywater is of lesser quality than potable (drinking) water but of higher quality than blackwater, which in New Jersey refers to wastewater from water closets, toilets, and urinals.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a> Potential sources of onsite alternative water include rainwater, treated graywater and blackwater, condensate from air conditioners, reject water from water treatment systems, and cooling equipment blowdown.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a> Figure 1 shows examples of end-uses for on-site alternative water reuse such as irrigation, cooling tower make-up water, and toilet and urinal flushing.</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_291\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"840\"]<img class=\"wp-image-291 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-On-Site-Alternative-Water-Reuse-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Examples of On-site Alternative Water Reuse. (Source: US EPA WaterSense at Work)\" width=\"840\" height=\"644\" /> Figure 1 – Examples of On-site Alternative Water Reuse. (Source: US EPA WaterSense at Work)[/caption]\n<h2><strong>How to Implement Onsite Alternative Water Reuse </strong></h2>\n<p>Implementing on-site alternative water reuse starts with water conservation and includes identifying and evaluating opportunities to substitute or supplement potable water use with on-site alternative water sources based on the water quality and treatment requirements of the intended end-uses, and the feasibility of capturing and delivering alternative water sources to those end-uses (see <em>Indoor Water Conservation</em>).</p>\n<p>Harvest and filter rainwater from rooftops to supplement or replace landscape irrigation and toilet and urinal flushing (see <em>Rain Barrels and Cisterns, Vegetated Roofs, and Emergency Water Supply and Storage</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a> Rainwater that flows over parking lots and impervious hardscapes and filtered by rain gardens or captured by retention ponds also provides an alternative water source for landscape irrigation (see <em>Rain Gardens</em>, <em>Water Efficient Landscaping</em>).</p>\n<p>Capture graywater from fixtures and appliances by designating separate drain lines, storage units, and pumps to deliver graywater to desired locations. Graywater used for subsurface irrigation of trees, shrubs, and flower gardens requires filtering to remove suspended solids. Indoor uses for graywater such as toilet and urinal flushing, or above-ground irrigation for turf grass or edible gardens often require additional treatment through natural, mechanical or chemical applications.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a> Treatment systems include engineered systems, tailored to specific projects, and packaged systems designed to fit a wide range of project applications.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<p>Reuse wastewater from building applications and processes for use in another onsite applications. For example, use condensate from air conditioners for cooling tower make-up water or subsurface irrigation. Use water rejected from water treatment systems for a range of end-uses that do not require potable water such as toilet and urinal flushing, cooling tower make-up water, above-ground irrigation, and decorative water features.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\">[7]</a></p>\n<p>Blackwater treatment systems require a higher level of treatment to bring recycled water to acceptable standards for reuse. Constructed wetlands use a combination of plants, snails, clams, algae, and fish to filter and break down compounds in blackwater. Commercial treatment systems may include sedimentation, membrane filtration or UV sterilization. Composting toilets provide another way to reduce potable water use and reduce the need for wastewater treatment.</p>\n<p>Hire certified professionals familiar with the design, construction, and maintenance of onsite alternative water reuse systems. Review local ordinances, permitting requirements, and plumbing codes.</p>\n<p>The <a href=\"http://www.iapmo.org/westand/Pages/GreenPlumbingandMechanicalCodeSupplement.aspx\">International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials Green Plumbing &amp; Mechanical Code Supplement</a> provides guidance on implementing onsite alternative water reuse for non-potable end-uses.</p>\n<p>The <a href=\"http://www.nsf.org/services/by-industry/water-wastewater/onsite-wastewater/onsite-reuse-water-treatment-systems\">NSF International/American National Standards Institute (NSF/ANSI) 350, <em>Onsite Residential and Commercial Reuse Treatment Systems</em></a> establishes design, construction and performance requirements for onsite alternative reuse systems.</p>\n<h3><strong>Example</strong></h3>\n<p><a href=\"http://rcgb1.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/JAWRA2007.pdf\">The Solaire, New York City</a></p>\n<p>The Solaire, a LEED Gold certified residential high-rise building in Battery Park completed in 2003 offers examples of on-site alternative water reuse and wastewater treatment technologies applicable to new commercial buildings. Indoor water conservation measures include low-flow fixtures, toilets, and appliances that reduce potable water use by 43%. The building’s onsite wastewater treatment plant utilizes digestion, membrane filtration, and ultraviolet disinfection to processes 30,000 gallons of blackwater each day and reuses it as cooling water for two on-site cooling towers and to flush toilets in both the Solaire and an adjacent building, the Verdesian. The Solaire’s vegetated roof helps manage stormwater and diverts excess stormwater runoff to a 10,000-gallon basement water storage tank that stores the water for later use by the vegetated roofs drip irrigation system.</p>\n<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>On-site alternative water reuse reduces potable water use and the reliance on surface water, groundwater, and reclaimed water purchased from a third-party.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a> Harvesting rainwater can reduce stormwater runoff, flooding, and pollution. Graywater and blackwater reuse reduces the strain on municipal water and wastewater treatment plants. Compared to potable water, recycled water used for irrigation often contains higher levels of nutrients, such as nitrogen, that lessens the need for synthetic fertilizers. On-site alternative water reuse reduces the energy required to transport water or pump water from deep underground sources. Using recycled water for applications that do not require water treated to potable or drinkable water quality standards saves energy and money by reducing treatment requirements.</p>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>The rising cost over the last decade of water and wastewater services can make minor investments in water conservation strategies and onsite alternative water use technologies cost-effective based on the savings alone from reduced water bills.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a> Factoring in savings from reduced energy bills further reduces payback periods. As on-site alternative water technologies evolve, and costs decline, and water shortages and water quality issues become more common, the resiliency benefits of a local and reliable water resource on reduced business closures, health and safety hazards, and inconvenience from schedule disruptions, can offset the incremental costs. <a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\">[10]</a></p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency</strong></h2>\n<p>Using on-site alternative water resources enhances resiliency by utilizing safe, reliable, redundant and locally controlled water supplies, by reducing impacts from droughts and other instances of water scarcity, and by protecting sensitive, natural water bodies. Reducing potable water use reduces the reliance and stress on the entire municipal water infrastructure including groundwater pumping, and water and wastewater treatment and distribution, reducing the likelihood of system overload and failure (see <em>Emergency Water Supply and Storage</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\">[11]</a> Many water pumps run on electricity, and without a source of backup power, fail to operate during power outages highlighting the importance of on-site alternative water sources and treatment options that cover all or part of onsite water use and wastewater treatment needs (see <em>Energy Storage and Backup Power Generation</em>). Compostable toilets also increase resiliency by continuing to operate during water shortages and by preventing sewage backups.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a> Alliance for Water Efficiency. 2018. Graywater Introduction. <a href=\"http://www.allianceforwaterefficiency.org/graywater-introduction.aspx\">http://www.allianceforwaterefficiency.org/graywater-introduction.aspx</a> (accessed Nov 15, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a> NJ DEP. Division of Water Quality. <em>Standards for Individual Subsurface Sewage Disposal Systems.</em> <a href=\"http://www.state.nj.us/dep/dwq/pdf/njac79a.pdf\">www.state.nj.us/dep/dwq/pdf/njac79a.pdf</a> (accessed October 22, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a> US EPA. 2012. WaterSense at Work: Best Management Practices for Commercial and Institutional Facilities. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-02/documents/watersense-at-work_final_508c3.pdf\">https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-02/documents/watersense-at-work_final_508c3.pdf</a> (accessed Nov 14, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a> US EPA. 2012. WaterSense at Work: Best Management Practices for Commercial and Institutional Facilities. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-02/documents/watersense-at-work_final_508c3.pdf\">https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-02/documents/watersense-at-work_final_508c3.pdf</a> (accessed Nov 14, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a> US EPA. 2012. WaterSense at Work: Best Management Practices for Commercial and Institutional Facilities. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-02/documents/watersense-at-work_final_508c3.pdf\">https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-02/documents/watersense-at-work_final_508c3.pdf</a> (accessed Nov 14, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a> Alliance for Water Efficiency. 2018. Graywater Introduction. <a href=\"http://www.allianceforwaterefficiency.org/graywater-introduction.aspx\">http://www.allianceforwaterefficiency.org/graywater-introduction.aspx</a> (accessed Nov 15, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\">[7]</a> US EPA. 2012. WaterSense at Work: Best Management Practices for Commercial and Institutional Facilities. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-02/documents/watersense-at-work_final_508c3.pdf\">https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-02/documents/watersense-at-work_final_508c3.pdf</a> (accessed Nov 14, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\">[8]</a> US EPA. 2012. WaterSense at Work: Best Management Practices for Commercial and Institutional Facilities. <a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-02/documents/watersense-at-work_final_508c3.pdf\">https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2017-02/documents/watersense-at-work_final_508c3.pdf</a> (accessed Nov 14, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\">[9]</a> Joseph Bourg. 2016. Water Conservation. Whole Building Design Guide – A Program of the National Institute of Building Science. <a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation\">https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation</a> (accessed Oct 26, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\">[10]</a> DOE. “Smart Grid Investments Improve Grid Reliability, Resilience, and Storm Responses.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20170513121841/https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf\">https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf</a> (accessed May 1, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\">[11]</a> Joseph Bourg. 2016. Water Conservation. Whole Building Design Guide – A Program of the National Institute of Building Science. <a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation\">https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation</a> (accessed Oct 26, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-energy-storage-and-back-up-power-generation/\">Energy Storage and Backup Power Generation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/\">Emergency Water Supply and Storage</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/\">Indoor Water Conservation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-rain-barrels-and-cisterns/\">Rain Barrels and Cisterns</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/rain-gardens-and-cisterns/\">Rain Gardens</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-vegetated-roofs/\">Vegetated Roofs</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-water-efficient-landscaping/\">Water-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" theme_builder_area=\"post_content\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.allianceforwaterefficiency.org/default.aspx\">Alliance for Water Efficiency</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://new.usgbc.org/center-for-resilience\">The Center for Resilience</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.nj.gov/dep/dwq/\">New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection – Division of Water Quality</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.resilientdesign.org\">Resilient Design Institute</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/\">Rutgers University NJ Agricultural Experiment Station – Water Resources Program</a></li>\n</ul>\n<p><strong>US Environmental Protection Agency</strong></p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/watersense/commercial-buildings\">WaterSense for Commercial Buildings</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/greeningepa/water-conservation-epa\">Water Conservation at EPA</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www3.epa.gov/region9/water/recycling/#benefits\">Water Recycling</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://watereuse.org\">WaterReuse</a></li>\n<li>Whole Building Design Guide – Water Conservation</li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NC On-site Alternative Water Reuse','','inherit','closed','closed','','1527-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:56:26','2022-06-23 17:56:26','',1527,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2499',0,'revision','',0),(2500,3,'2022-06-23 17:56:27','2022-06-23 17:56:27','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Emergency Water Supply and Storage\" subhead=\"New Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2><strong>What is Emergency Water Supply and Storage? </strong></h2>\n<p>New Jersey receives ample rainfall, and the state’s geology supports the storage of large quantities of groundwater and surface water.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a> However, water conservation and planning for water scarcity when water is plentiful can reduce the risk and the costs associated with increasing population growth, aging water infrastructure, and climate change impacts such as droughts on future water quality and availability. An increase in extreme weather events, such as major hurricanes, thunderstorms, ice storms, and flooding in New Jersey has highlighted the importance of having access to clean and safe water to meet drinking, sanitation and hygiene needs during and after natural disasters, extended power outages, and other emergencies. For example, flooding can overwhelm municipal water and wastewater treatment plants and storm-related power outages can impact plant operations. Flood waters can contaminate local water supplies and private wells with raw sewage and stormwater runoff containing chemicals, debris, and other contaminants that can cause serious illness.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a> While backup generators at municipal water and wastewater treatment plants can prevent power outages and elevating equipment can protect plant operations, individual building owners and operators can also take steps to safeguard water for emergencies.</p>\n[caption id=\"attachment_67\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"768\"]<img class=\"wp-image-67 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Emergency-Water-Supply-and-Storage-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Flooding (Source: NJ DEP Flood Control)\" width=\"768\" height=\"498\" /> Figure 1 – Flooding (Source: NJ DEP Flood Control)[/caption]<p>Strategies to safeguard water at the building level include designating back-up power for water pumps, providing on-site water storage, and designing redundant water supply and treatment systems that utilize captured rainwater or recycled wastewater as the primary or backup water supply (see <em>Rain Barrels and Cisterns, and On-site Alternative Water Reuse</em>).</p>\n<h2><strong>How to Provide for Emergency Water Supply and Storage </strong></h2>\n<p>Planning for access to potable water during a power outage or storm-related event, starts with water conservation, and can include reusing water on-site, such as harvested rainwater or recycled greywater for storage and later use during emergencies to cover operations such as toilet flushing, mechanical equipment, and irrigation (see <em>Water-Efficient Landscaping, Indoor Water Conservation, On-site Alternative Water Reuse</em>).</p>\n<p>The specifics depend on whether or not the building utilizes the municipal water system. During a water emergency, a building on municipal water may still have access to clean potable water due to the municipal water and treatment plant’s backup water storage or backup power system.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a> In this situation, planning for emergency water supply and storage requires providing backup power generation to operate water pumps and to distribute water throughout a building (see <em>Energy Storage and Back-Up Power Generation</em>).</p>\n<p>Buildings with deep-well pumps that do not rely on the municipal water supply can utilize energy storage and back-power generation, or hand pumps to power the deep-well pump. Gravity-fed water from an on-site spring or cistern part of a rainwater harvesting system, which includes adequate water storage can provide a redundant or backup water supply to complement public or deep-well water resources. Where there is no option for on-site water replenishment, look to provide emergency water storage that can gravity-feed water to the building, such as rooftop water tanks or water storage with pumps powered by stored energy or off-grid generators.</p>\n<h3><strong>Example</strong></h3>\n<p><a href=\"https://thewatershed.org/visit/\">Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association Center</a></p>\n<p>Rainwater collected from the building’s rooftop supplies water for flushing toilets, reducing municipal potable water, stormwater runoff, and energy used to pump and treat water.</p>\n<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>The benefits of planning for emergency water supply and storage become most apparent during an emergency or disaster. Proper preparations can reduce business closures and avoid health and safety hazards associated with water emergencies. Planning for access to potable water during emergencies can also benefit overall water conservation efforts during normal operations, as alternative solutions and reuse scenarios are considered to utilize and manage water on a site.</p>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>The rising cost over the last decade of water and wastewater services can make minor investments in water conservation strategies and back-up technologies cost-effective based on the savings alone from reduced water bills.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a> Factoring in savings from reduced energy bills further reduces payback periods. As the cost of water storage and backup power generation technologies decline and power outages and water emergencies become more common, the resiliency benefits of reduced business closures, health and safety hazards, and inconvenience from schedule disruptions, can offset the incremental costs. <a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a></p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency</strong></h2>\n<p>Providing for emergency water supply and storage enhances resiliency by utilizing redundant and local water supplies and reducing impacts from droughts and other instances of water scarcity. Ensuring access to potable water during emergencies decreases the reliance and stress on the entire municipal water infrastructure including groundwater pumping, and water and wastewater treatment and distribution, reducing the likelihood of system overload and failure.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a> New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, 2017, New Jersey Water Supply Plan 2017-2022: 484p, <a href=\"http://www.nj.gov/dep/watersupply/wsp.html\">http://www.nj.gov/dep/watersupply/wsp.html</a> (accessed Oct 25, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a> Center for Disease Control and Prevention. 2018. Healthy Water – Water-Related Emergencies and Outbreaks. <a href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/\">https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/</a> (accessed Nov 6, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a> Wilson, Alex. 2015. LEED Pilot Credits on Resilient Design Adopted! <a href=\"http://www.resilientdesign.org/leed-pilot-credits-on-resilient-design-adopted/\">http://www.resilientdesign.org/leed-pilot-credits-on-resilient-design-adopted/</a> (accessed Nov 6, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a> Joseph Bourg. 2016. Water Conservation. Whole Building Design Guide – A Program of the National Institute of Building Science. <a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation\">https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation</a> (accessed Oct 26, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a> DOE. “Smart Grid Investments Improve Grid Reliability, Resilience, and Storm Responses.” <a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20170513121841/https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf\">https://www.smartgrid.gov/files/B2-Master-File-with-edits_120114.pdf</a> (accessed May 1, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-emergency-water-supply-and-storage/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a> Joseph Bourg. 2016. Water Conservation. Whole Building Design Guide – A Program of the National Institute of Building Science. <a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation\">https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation</a> (accessed Oct 26, 2018).</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-energy-storage-and-back-up-power-generation/\">Energy Storage and Back-up Power Generation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/indoor-water-conservation/\">Indoor Water Conservation</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-on-site-alternative-water-reuse/\">On-site Alternative Water Reuse</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-rain-barrels-and-cisterns/\">Rain Barrels and Cisterns</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-solar-islanding-and-microgrid-ready-solar-pv/\">Solar Islanding and Microgrid-Ready PV</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-water-efficient-landscaping/\">Water-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/\">Center for Disease Control – Healthy Water</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://new.usgbc.org/center-for-resilience\">The Center for Resilience</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.resilientdesign.org\">Resilient Design Institute</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/watersense/commercial-buildings\">US EPA WaterSense for Commercial Buildings</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.epa.gov/greeningepa/water-conservation-epa\">US EPA – Water Conservation at EPA</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.wbdg.org/resources/water-conservation\">Whole Building Design Guide – Water Conservation</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NC Emergency Water Supply and Storage','','inherit','closed','closed','','1539-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:56:27','2022-06-23 17:56:27','',1539,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2500',0,'revision','',0),(2501,3,'2022-06-23 17:56:27','2022-06-23 17:56:27','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Turf Grass Reduction\" subhead=\"New Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>What is Turf Grass?</h2>\n<p>Turf grass refers to a form of grass used when growing a lawn and typically includes species such as bluegrass, rye, and fescue.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a> These species, referred to as conventional turf grass, grow evenly and to a uniform height when maintained. Conventional turf grass requires high levels of maintenance, irrigation, and fertilization to achieve a consistently green and manicured look. Turf grass had become common in the United States after post-World War II when it became a mainstream middle-class status symbol. At that time many types of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers were becoming commercially available.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a></p>\n<p>Alternatives to conventional turf grass lawns include replacing the lawn with native grasses or groundcover and reducing the size of the lawn by incorporating other types of natural landscaping or garden beds (see <em>Native and Adapted Plants</em>).). There are many varieties of groundcovers, including those that are edible or flowering. Groundcover refers to plants that, once established, form a uniform layer over the ground and require little to no maintenance. Native grasses are species of grass that are native to a particular area and climate. These grasses require less maintenance and are less susceptible to pests.</p>\n<p>[caption id=\"attachment_587\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"622\"]<img class=\"wp-image-587 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Turf-Grass-Reduction-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – An example of non-lawn outdoor space (Source: Ithaca College).\" width=\"622\" height=\"540\" /> Figure 1 – An example of non-lawn outdoor space (Source: Ithaca College).[/caption]</p>\n<p>Reasons to consider reducing the use of turf grass include:</p>\n<p><u>High Maintenance Requirements</u></p>\n<p>Lawns require frequent and sometimes costly maintenance. Lawn maintenance often involves hiring lawn care employees, purchasing fertilizers, and maintaining lawn care equipment. Lawns may require mowing multiple times a week during the peak growing season. During a drought, lawns require irrigation. Landscapes consume 9 billion gallons of water each day in the United States, mostly to irrigate lawns.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a></p>\n<p><u>High Pollution Outputs that Create Public Health Risks</u></p>\n<p>Lawn care chemicals can pose a threat to people, pets and the environment. Studies have found numerous adverse health consequences associated with the synthetic chemicals found in traditional lawn care products, especially for children due to their size, physiological development and proximity to the ground.</p>\n<p>Lawns can also contribute to water pollution as chemicals used to treat lawns combine with stormwater runoff and flow into freshwater supplies, adversely affecting plants and animal life. Many commercial lawns require frequent fertilization to maintain quality turf grass. Excessive fertilizer use can also lead to fertilizers entering sources of drinking water.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a></p>\n<p>Note that while conventional turf grass does help remove carbon dioxide from the air, the amount sequestered does not cancel out the greenhouse gas emissions produced from fertilizer production, mowing, leaf blowing and other lawn management practices.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a></p>\n<p><u>Lack of Biodiversity</u></p>\n<p>Conventional turf grass lawns lack biodiversity, an essential component of healthy ecosystems, and do not support a wide variety of birds, beneficial insects, small amphibians, and small land mammals.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<h2>How to Reduce Turf Grass</h2>\n<p>Turf grass accounts for 30-40 million acres of land in the United States.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\">[7]</a> Many fiscally and environmentally responsible alternatives to lawns exist such as minimizing turfgrass areas, using more eco-friendly grass species for remaining turf areas, and planting a wide variety of low-maintenance trees, shrubs, and perennials to create garden spaces, rain gardens, and native habitats (see <em>Rain Gardens</em>). When designing an alternative lawn, select eco-friendly grass and grass-like species such as native sedges and meadow mixes and limit turf areas for defining garden edges, active recreation areas, pathways between planting beds and other structural and functional purposes. <a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a> Native grasses and sedges can provide a low maintenance alternative with high ecological value.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a></p>\n<p><u>Use Groundcover</u></p>\n<p>Groundcovers refer to low-growing plants including native grasses and sedges but also include taller trees and shrubs that grow together to form dense vegetation. Choose groundcovers that require little maintenance and support wildlife.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\">[10]</a>  Increasing the size of shrub beds and adding groundcovers can facilitate the reduction of erosion and water runoff.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\">[11]</a> Select non-invasive groundcovers that do not threaten plant biodiversity or affect wildlife that depends on native species as a food source.</p>\n<ul>\n<li>To select an appropriate groundcover, talk with the local cooperative extension agent and refer to the <a href=\"http://www.npsnj.org/\">NJ Native Plant Society’s</a> listing of native and invasive species and the <a href=\"https://www.nwf.org/NativePlantFinder/About\">Native Plant Finder</a>. Native species often vary across regions, even within New Jersey. Note that the USDA identifies New Jersey as being in Hardiness Zones 5 through 7.</li>\n<li>To contain groundcovers, install an edge barrier such as a row of low bricks or wood frame. Extend edging a few inches into the soil to contain roots.</li>\n<li>Weed and mulch groundcover regularly, especially in the first year of planting.</li>\n<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/county/\">County Extension Offices</a> trains volunteer in each county through its Master Gardeners Program to provide guidance on lawn alternatives.</li>\n</ul>\n<p><u>Tips on Removing Lawn</u></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Use a sod cutter to remove sections of existing lawn gradually.</li>\n<li>Remove existing lawn but do not disturb the soil as turning the soil allows weeds to compete with the new native seedlings.</li>\n</ul>\n<p><u>Tips for Caring for Existing Lawns</u></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Keep mower at 2 1⁄2 inches, water in the early morning and de-thatch if thatch reaches more than 1⁄2 inch in thickness. Cutting lawns too short decreases root growth.</li>\n<li>Leave clippings on the lawn as a natural source of nitrogen for the soil, recycle the clippings or start a compost pile.</li>\n<li>Reduce water needs by mulching the garden beds around an existing lawn.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>Economic</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Decreases maintenance costs and reduces water bills. Once established, groundcovers appropriate to the site conditions require less upkeep than conventional turf grass.</li>\n<li>Reduces costs spent on fertilizers and pesticides.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Environmental</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Increases biodiversity and support of wildlife such as birds, insects, small amphibians, and small land mammals.</li>\n<li>Dense and short growing groundcover plants eliminate weeds, preserve moisture in the soil, and do not require mowing.</li>\n<li>Reduces the need for lawn irrigation (see <em>Water-Efficient Landscaping</em>).</li>\n<li>Groundcovers act as mulch, enhancing the soil.</li>\n<li>Groundcovers and native grasses require less maintenance to prevent soil erosion compared to turfgrass.</li>\n<li>Reduces toxic emissions released into the environment from lawnmowers.</li>\n<li>Reduces use of fossil fuels required by lawn and irrigation equipment.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Personal Wellness</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Saves time and labor.</li>\n<li>Connects people to the natural landscape.</li>\n<li>Creates a diverse and aesthetically pleasing outdoor environment.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>The cost of lawn alternatives varies depending on the type and size of the landscape. For example, cost per square foot of alternative groundcovers depends upon the type of plants chosen and the size of the groundcover. The higher initial cost of selecting plants specific to the site pays for itself over time through reduced maintenance costs compared to less adaptive and higher-maintenance turf grass.</p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency</strong></h2>\n<p>Replacing conventional turf grass with native plants and water-efficient landscaping promotes resiliency by decreasing water use and reducing the reliance and stress on municipal water infrastructure. Alternatives to turf grass can also increase groundwater infiltration, helping to slow stormwater runoff and reduce erosion during flooding events. Also, replacing turf grass with diverse native plants increases the biological diversity in a given area, which in turn, enhances the ability of the natural system to rebound after a disturbance.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a> American-Lawns. “Mixtures and Blends.” <a href=\"http://www.american-lawns.com/grasses/grass.html\">http://www.american-lawns.com/grasses/grass.html</a> (accessed March 22, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a> University of Delaware College of Agriculture &amp; Natural Resources. “Turf Grass Madness: Reasons to Reduce the Lawn in Your Landscape.”  <a href=\"http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Turf_Grass_Madness.pdf\">http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Turf_Grass_Madness.pdf</a> (accessed March 22, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a> U.S. EPA.  Outdoor Water Use in the United States.  <a href=\"https://19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/www3/watersense/pubs/outdoor.html\">https://19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/www3/watersense/pubs/outdoor.html</a> (accessed March 22, 2018)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a> US EPA, University of West Virginia. “Managing Turfgrass and Garden Fertilizer Application to Prevent Contamination of Drinking Water.” <a href=\"http://nesc.wvu.edu/smart/training/toolkit/page1/SWPPT_bulletins/turfgrass.pdf\">http://nesc.wvu.edu/smart/training/toolkit/page1/SWPPT_bulletins/turfgrass.pdf</a> (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a> University of California, Irvine.  Turfgrass. <a href=\"https://news.uci.edu/2010/01/19/turfgrass/\">https://news.uci.edu/2010/01/19/turfgrass/</a>  (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a> NJ DEP. 2015. New Jersey Natural Heritage Program. <a href=\"https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/natural/heritage/\">https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/natural/heritage/</a> (accessed Sept 20, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\">[7]</a> Earth Institute at Columbia University.  “The Problem of Lawns.” <a href=\"http://blogs.ei.columbia.edu/2010/06/04/the-problem-of-lawns/\">http://blogs.ei.columbia.edu/2010/06/04/the-problem-of-lawns/</a> (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\">[8]</a> Less Lawn. “Native Grass Lawns.” <a href=\"http://www.lesslawn.com/articles/article1010.html\">http://www.lesslawn.com/articles/article1010.html</a> (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\">[9]</a> The Nature Conservancy. Habitat Network. Native Grasses for your Native Lawn. <a href=\"http://content.yardmap.org/learn/native-grasses-for-your-native-lawn/\">http://content.yardmap.org/learn/native-grasses-for-your-native-lawn/</a> (accessed November 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\">[10]</a> University of Delaware College of Agriculture &amp; Natural Resources. “Groundcover Alternatives to Turf Grass.”  <a href=\"http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Groundcovers.pdf\">http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Groundcovers.pdf</a> (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\">[11]</a> Ibid.</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/\">Native and Adapted Plants</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/rain-gardens-and-cisterns/\">Rain Gardens</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-water-efficient-landscaping/\">Water-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.audubon.org/bird/at_home/pdf/AAHPA-21-32-Lawn.pdf\">Audubon Society – Lawn Alternatives</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.cleanwaternj.org/garden.html\">Clean Water NJ – In the Garden</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.jerseyyards.org/jersey-friendly-plants/\">Jersey-Friendly Yards</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.npsnj.org/\">Native Plant Society of New Jersey</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.nwf.org/NativePlantFinder/About\">Native Plant Finder</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://content.yardmap.org/learn/native-grasses-for-your-native-lawn/\">Nature Conservancy – Habitat Network</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.nj.gov/dep/watershedrestoration/waterbook_chp6.html\">NJ DEP Lawn and Garden Care</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/county/\">Rutgers NJ Agriculture Experiment Station</a>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/subcategory.php?cat=5&amp;sub=35\">Commercial Turfgrass and Landscape Maintenance Fact Sheets &amp; Bulletins</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.turf.rutgers.edu/\">Center for Turfgrass Science</a></li>\n</ul>\n</li>\n<li><a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/Rain_Gardens/RGWebsite/RainGardenManualofNJ.html\">Rutgers Water Resource Program – Rain Garden Manual of New Jersey</a></li>\n</ul>\n<p><strong>University Extension Services – Groundcovers</strong></p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Groundcovers.pdf\">Delaware</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/groundcover-list\">Maryland</a></li>\n</ul>\n<p>US Environmental Protection Agency</p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://archive.epa.gov/wastes/conserve/tools/greenscapes/web/html/brochure.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">US EPA Greenscapes: Environmentally Beneficial Landscaping</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NC Turf Grass Reduction','','inherit','closed','closed','','1134-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:56:27','2022-06-23 17:56:27','',1134,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2501',0,'revision','',0),(2502,3,'2022-06-23 17:56:56','2022-06-23 17:56:56','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Turfgrass Reduction\" subhead=\"New Residential\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>What is Turfgrass?</h2>\n<p>Turfgrass refers to a form of grass used when growing a lawn and typically includes species such as bluegrass, rye, and fescue.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a><span> </span>These species, referred to as conventional turf grass, grow evenly and to a uniform height when maintained. Conventional turf grass requires high levels of maintenance, irrigation, and fertilization to achieve a consistently green and manicured look. Turfgrass had become common in the United States after post-World War II when it became a mainstream middle-class status symbol. At that time many types of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers were becoming commercially available.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a></p>\n<p>Alternatives to conventional turf grass lawns include replacing the lawn with native grasses or groundcover and reducing the size of the lawn by incorporating other types of natural landscaping or garden beds (see<span> </span><em>Native and Adapted Plants,<span> </span></em><em>and Wildlife Habitat</em>). There are many varieties of groundcovers, including those that are edible or flowering. Groundcover refers to plants that, once established, form a uniform layer over the ground and require little to no maintenance. Native grasses are species of grass that are native to a particular area and climate. These grasses require less maintenance and are less susceptible to pests (see<span> </span><em>Integrated Pest Management</em>).</p>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][caption id=\"attachment_309\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"468\"]<img class=\"wp-image-309 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/NR-Turf-Grass-Reduction-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Blue Wood Sedge (Source: Courtesy of North Creek Nurseries)\" width=\"468\" height=\"494\" /> Figure 1 – Blue Wood Sedge (Source: Courtesy of North Creek Nurseries)[/caption][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<p>Reasons to consider reducing the use of turfgrass include:</p>\n<p><u>High Maintenance Requirements</u></p>\n<p>Lawns require frequent and sometimes costly maintenance. Lawn maintenance often involves hiring lawn care employees, purchasing fertilizers, and maintaining lawn care equipment. Lawns may require mowing multiple times a week during the peak growing season. During a drought, lawns require irrigation. Landscapes consume 9 billion gallons of water each day in the United States, mostly to irrigate lawns (see<span> </span><em>Water-Efficient Landscaping</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a></p>\n<p><u>High Pollution Outputs that Create Public Health Risks</u></p>\n<p>Lawn care chemicals can pose a threat to people, pets and the environment. Studies have found numerous adverse health consequences associated with the synthetic chemicals found in traditional lawn care products, especially for children due to their size, physiological development and proximity to the ground.</p>\n<p>Lawns can also contribute to water pollution as chemicals used to treat lawns combine with stormwater runoff and flow into freshwater supplies, adversely affecting plants and animal life. Many commercial lawns require frequent fertilization to maintain quality turf grass. Excessive fertilizer use can also lead to fertilizers entering sources of drinking water.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a></p>\n<p>Note that while conventional turf grass does help remove carbon dioxide from the air, the amount sequestered does not cancel out the greenhouse gas emissions produced from fertilizer production, mowing, leaf blowing and other lawn management practices (see<span> </span><em>Energy-Efficient Landscaping</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a></p>\n<p><u>Lack of Biodiversity</u></p>\n<p>Conventional turfgrass lawns lack biodiversity, an essential component of healthy ecosystems, and do not support a wide variety of birds, beneficial insects, small amphibians, and small land mammals.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<h2>How to Reduce the Use of Turf Grass</h2>\n<p>In New Jersey, homeowners account for 76 percent of the state’s 880,542 acres of turf grass.<span> </span><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\">[7]</a><span> </span>On average, lawns take up half of an average lot size.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a><span> </span>Many fiscally and environmentally responsible alternatives to lawns exist such as minimizing turfgrass areas, using more eco-friendly grass species for remaining turf areas, and planting a wide variety of low-maintenance trees, shrubs, and perennials to create garden spaces, rain gardens, and native habitats (see Rain Gardens). When designing an alternative lawn, select eco-friendly grass and grass-like species such as native sedges and meadow mixes and limit turf areas for defining garden edges, active recreation areas, pathways between planting beds and other structural and functional purposes.<span> </span><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a><span> </span>Native grasses and sedges can provide a low maintenance alternative with high ecological value.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\">[10]</a></p>\n<p><u>Use Groundcover or Native Grasses</u></p>\n<p>Groundcovers refer to low-growing plants including native grasses and sedges but also include taller trees and shrubs that grow together to form dense vegetation. Choose groundcovers that require little maintenance and support wildlife.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\">[11]</a><span> </span> Increasing the size of shrub beds and adding groundcovers can facilitate the reduction of erosion and water runoff (see<span> </span><em>Erosion Control</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn12\" name=\"_ednref12\">[12]</a><span> </span>Select non-invasive groundcovers that do not threaten plant biodiversity or affect wildlife that depends on native species as a food source.<span> </span><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn13\" name=\"_ednref13\">10</a></p>\n<ul>\n<li>To select an appropriate groundcover, talk with the local cooperative extension agent and refer to the<span> </span><a href=\"http://www.npsnj.org/\">NJ Native Plant Society’s</a><span> </span>listing of native and invasive species and the Native Plant Finder. Native species often vary across regions, even within New Jersey. Note that the USDA identifies New Jersey as being in Hardiness Zones 5 through 7.</li>\n<li>To contain groundcovers, install an edge barrier such as a row of low bricks or wood frame. Extend edging a few inches into the soil to contain roots.</li>\n<li>Weed and mulch groundcover regularly, especially in the first year of planting.</li>\n<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/county/\">County Extension Offices</a><span> </span>trains volunteer in each county through its Master Gardeners Program to provide guidance on lawn alternatives.</li>\n</ul>\n<p><u>Tips on Removing Lawn</u></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Use a sod cutter to remove sections of existing lawn gradually.</li>\n<li>Remove existing lawn but do not disturb the soil as turning the soil allows weeds to compete with the new native seedlings.</li>\n</ul>\n<p><u>Tips for Caring for Existing Lawns</u></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Keep mower at 2 1⁄2 inches, water in the early morning and de-thatch if thatch reaches more than 1⁄2 inch in thickness. Cutting lawns too short decreases root growth.</li>\n<li>Leave clippings on the lawn as a natural source of nitrogen for the soil, recycle the clippings or start a compost pile.</li>\n<li>Reduce water needs by mulching the garden beds around an existing lawn.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>Economic</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Decreases maintenance costs and reduces water bills. Once established, groundcovers appropriate to the site conditions require less upkeep than conventional turf grass.</li>\n<li>Reduces costs spent on fertilizers and pesticides.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Environmental</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Increases in biodiversity and support of wildlife such as birds, insects, small amphibians, and small land mammals.</li>\n<li>Dense and short growing groundcover plants eliminate weeds, preserve moisture in the soil, and do not require mowing.</li>\n<li>Reduces the need for lawn irrigation.</li>\n<li>Groundcovers act as mulch, enhancing the soil.</li>\n<li>Groundcovers and native grasses require less maintenance to prevent soil erosion compared to turfgrass.</li>\n<li>Reduces toxic emissions released into the environment from lawnmowers.</li>\n<li>Reduces use of fossil fuels required by lawn and irrigation equipment.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Personal Wellness</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Saves time and labor.</li>\n<li>Connects people to the natural landscape.</li>\n<li>Creates a diverse and aesthetically pleasing outdoor environment.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>The cost of lawn alternatives varies depending on the type and size of the landscape. For example, cost per square foot of alternative groundcovers depends upon the type of plants chosen and the size of the groundcover. The higher initial cost of selecting plants specific to the site pays for itself over time through reduced maintenance costs compared to less adaptive and higher-maintenance turfgrass.</p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency</strong></h2>\n<p>Replacing conventional turf grass with native plants and water-efficient landscaping promotes resiliency by decreasing water use and reducing the reliance and stress on municipal water infrastructure. Alternatives to turf grass can also increase groundwater infiltration, helping to slow stormwater runoff and reduce erosion during flooding events. Also, replacing turf grass with diverse native plants, increases the biological diversity in a given area, which in turn, enhances the ability of the natural system to rebound after a disturbance.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a><span> </span>American-Lawns. “Mixtures and Blends.”<span> </span><a href=\"http://www.american-lawns.com/grasses/grass.html\">http://www.american-lawns.com/grasses/grass.html</a><span> </span>(accessed March 22, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a>  University of Delaware College of Agriculture &amp; Natural Resources. “Turf Grass Madness: Reasons to Reduce the Lawn in Your Landscape.” <span> </span><a href=\"http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Turf_Grass_Madness.pdf\">http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Turf_Grass_Madness.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed March 22, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a><span> </span>U.S. EPA.  Outdoor Water Use in the United States. <span> </span><a href=\"https://19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/www3/watersense/pubs/outdoor.html\">https://19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/www3/watersense/pubs/outdoor.html</a><span> </span>(accessed March 22, 2018)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a><span> </span>US EPA, University of West Virginia. “Managing Turfgrass and Garden Fertilizer Application to Prevent Contamination of Drinking Water.”<span> </span><a href=\"http://nesc.wvu.edu/smart/training/toolkit/page1/SWPPT_bulletins/turfgrass.pdf\">http://nesc.wvu.edu/smart/training/toolkit/page1/SWPPT_bulletins/turfgrass.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a><span> </span>University of California, Irvine.  Turfgrass.<span> </span><a href=\"https://news.uci.edu/2010/01/19/turfgrass/\">https://news.uci.edu/2010/01/19/turfgrass/</a>  (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a><span> </span>NJ DEP. 2015. New Jersey Natural Heritage Program.<span> </span><a href=\"https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/natural/heritage/\">https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/natural/heritage/</a><span> </span>(accessed Sept 20, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\">[7]</a><span> </span>880,542 acres is equal to 18 percent of NJ’s total land area.<span> </span><a href=\"http://www.turf.rutgers.edu/outreach/econsurvexecsummfullreport.pdf\">www.turf.rutgers.edu/outreach/econsurvexecsummfullreport.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed April 15, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\">[8]</a><span> </span>The Center for Turf grass Science. The New Jersey Turf grass Industry Economic Survey. February 2007.<span> </span><a href=\"http://www.turf.rutgers.edu/outreach/econsurvexecsummfullreport.pdf\">www.turf.rutgers.edu/outreach/econsurvexecsummfullreport.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed April 15, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\">[9]</a><span> </span>Less Lawn. “Native Grass Lawns.”<span> </span><a href=\"http://www.lesslawn.com/articles/article1010.html\">http://www.lesslawn.com/articles/article1010.html</a><span> </span>(accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\">[10]</a><span> </span>The Nature Conservancy. Habitat Network. Native Grasses for Your Native Lawn.<span> </span><a href=\"http://content.yardmap.org/learn/native-grasses-for-your-native-lawn/\">http://content.yardmap.org/learn/native-grasses-for-your-native-lawn/</a><span> </span>(accessed November 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\">[11]</a><span> </span>University of Delaware College of Agriculture &amp; Natural Resources. “Groundcover Alternatives to Turf Grass.” <span> </span><a href=\"http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Groundcovers.pdf\">http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Groundcovers.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref12\" name=\"_edn12\">[12]</a><span> </span>Ibid.</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-energy-efficient-landscaping/\">Energy-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-erosion-control/\">Erosion Control</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/integrated-pest-management-ipm/\">Integrated Pest Management</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-native-and-adapted-plants/\">Native and Adapted Plants</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-rain-gardens/\">Rain Gardens</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-water-efficient-landscaping/\">Water-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-wildlife-habitat/\">Wildlife Habitat</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.audubon.org/bird/at_home/pdf/AAHPA-21-32-Lawn.pdf\">Audubon Society – Lawn Alternatives</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.cleanwaternj.org/garden.html\">Clean Water NJ – In the Garden</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.jerseyyards.org/jersey-friendly-plants/\">Jersey-Friendly Yards</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.npsnj.org/\">Native Plant Society of New Jersey</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.nwf.org/NativePlantFinder/About\">Native Plant Finder</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://content.yardmap.org/learn/native-grasses-for-your-native-lawn/\">Nature Conservancy – Habitat Network</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.nj.gov/dep/watershedrestoration/waterbook_chp6.html\">NJ DEP Lawn and Garden Care</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/county/\">Rutgers NJ Agriculture Experiment Station</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/subcategory.php?cat=5&amp;sub=35\">Commercial Turfgrass and Landscape Maintenance Fact Sheets &amp; Bulletins</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://turf.rutgers.edu/\">Center for Turfgrass Science</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/Rain_Gardens/RGWebsite/RainGardenManualofNJ.html\">Rutgers Water Resource Program – Rain Garden Manual of New Jersey</a></li>\n<li>University Extension Services – Groundcovers\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Groundcovers.pdf\">Delaware</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/groundcover-list\">Maryland</a></li>\n</ul>\n</li>\n<li><a href=\"https://archive.epa.gov/greenbuilding/web/pdf/brochure.pdf\">US EPA Greenscapes: Environmentally Beneficial Landscaping</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NR Turfgrass Reduction','','inherit','closed','closed','','1263-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:56:56','2022-06-23 17:56:56','',1263,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2502',0,'revision','',0),(2503,3,'2022-06-23 17:56:56','2022-06-23 17:56:56','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Turf Grass Reduction\" subhead=\"New Commercial\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>What is Turf Grass?</h2>\n<p>Turf grass refers to a form of grass used when growing a lawn and typically includes species such as bluegrass, rye, and fescue.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a> These species, referred to as conventional turf grass, grow evenly and to a uniform height when maintained. Conventional turf grass requires high levels of maintenance, irrigation, and fertilization to achieve a consistently green and manicured look. Turf grass had become common in the United States after post-World War II when it became a mainstream middle-class status symbol. At that time many types of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers were becoming commercially available.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a></p>\n<p>Alternatives to conventional turf grass lawns include replacing the lawn with native grasses or groundcover and reducing the size of the lawn by incorporating other types of natural landscaping or garden beds (see <em>Native and Adapted Plants</em>).). There are many varieties of groundcovers, including those that are edible or flowering. Groundcover refers to plants that, once established, form a uniform layer over the ground and require little to no maintenance. Native grasses are species of grass that are native to a particular area and climate. These grasses require less maintenance and are less susceptible to pests.</p>\n<p>[caption id=\"attachment_587\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"622\"]<img class=\"wp-image-587 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NC-Turf-Grass-Reduction-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – An example of non-lawn outdoor space (Source: Ithaca College).\" width=\"622\" height=\"540\" /> Figure 1 – An example of non-lawn outdoor space (Source: Ithaca College).[/caption]</p>\n<p>Reasons to consider reducing the use of turf grass include:</p>\n<p><u>High Maintenance Requirements</u></p>\n<p>Lawns require frequent and sometimes costly maintenance. Lawn maintenance often involves hiring lawn care employees, purchasing fertilizers, and maintaining lawn care equipment. Lawns may require mowing multiple times a week during the peak growing season. During a drought, lawns require irrigation. Landscapes consume 9 billion gallons of water each day in the United States, mostly to irrigate lawns.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a></p>\n<p><u>High Pollution Outputs that Create Public Health Risks</u></p>\n<p>Lawn care chemicals can pose a threat to people, pets and the environment. Studies have found numerous adverse health consequences associated with the synthetic chemicals found in traditional lawn care products, especially for children due to their size, physiological development and proximity to the ground.</p>\n<p>Lawns can also contribute to water pollution as chemicals used to treat lawns combine with stormwater runoff and flow into freshwater supplies, adversely affecting plants and animal life. Many commercial lawns require frequent fertilization to maintain quality turf grass. Excessive fertilizer use can also lead to fertilizers entering sources of drinking water.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a></p>\n<p>Note that while conventional turf grass does help remove carbon dioxide from the air, the amount sequestered does not cancel out the greenhouse gas emissions produced from fertilizer production, mowing, leaf blowing and other lawn management practices.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a></p>\n<p><u>Lack of Biodiversity</u></p>\n<p>Conventional turf grass lawns lack biodiversity, an essential component of healthy ecosystems, and do not support a wide variety of birds, beneficial insects, small amphibians, and small land mammals.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<h2>How to Reduce Turf Grass</h2>\n<p>Turf grass accounts for 30-40 million acres of land in the United States.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\">[7]</a> Many fiscally and environmentally responsible alternatives to lawns exist such as minimizing turfgrass areas, using more eco-friendly grass species for remaining turf areas, and planting a wide variety of low-maintenance trees, shrubs, and perennials to create garden spaces, rain gardens, and native habitats (see <em>Rain Gardens</em>). When designing an alternative lawn, select eco-friendly grass and grass-like species such as native sedges and meadow mixes and limit turf areas for defining garden edges, active recreation areas, pathways between planting beds and other structural and functional purposes. <a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a> Native grasses and sedges can provide a low maintenance alternative with high ecological value.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a></p>\n<p><u>Use Groundcover</u></p>\n<p>Groundcovers refer to low-growing plants including native grasses and sedges but also include taller trees and shrubs that grow together to form dense vegetation. Choose groundcovers that require little maintenance and support wildlife.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\">[10]</a>  Increasing the size of shrub beds and adding groundcovers can facilitate the reduction of erosion and water runoff.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\">[11]</a> Select non-invasive groundcovers that do not threaten plant biodiversity or affect wildlife that depends on native species as a food source.</p>\n<ul>\n<li>To select an appropriate groundcover, talk with the local cooperative extension agent and refer to the <a href=\"http://www.npsnj.org/\">NJ Native Plant Society’s</a> listing of native and invasive species and the <a href=\"https://www.nwf.org/NativePlantFinder/About\">Native Plant Finder</a>. Native species often vary across regions, even within New Jersey. Note that the USDA identifies New Jersey as being in Hardiness Zones 5 through 7.</li>\n<li>To contain groundcovers, install an edge barrier such as a row of low bricks or wood frame. Extend edging a few inches into the soil to contain roots.</li>\n<li>Weed and mulch groundcover regularly, especially in the first year of planting.</li>\n<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/county/\">County Extension Offices</a> trains volunteer in each county through its Master Gardeners Program to provide guidance on lawn alternatives.</li>\n</ul>\n<p><u>Tips on Removing Lawn</u></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Use a sod cutter to remove sections of existing lawn gradually.</li>\n<li>Remove existing lawn but do not disturb the soil as turning the soil allows weeds to compete with the new native seedlings.</li>\n</ul>\n<p><u>Tips for Caring for Existing Lawns</u></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Keep mower at 2 1⁄2 inches, water in the early morning and de-thatch if thatch reaches more than 1⁄2 inch in thickness. Cutting lawns too short decreases root growth.</li>\n<li>Leave clippings on the lawn as a natural source of nitrogen for the soil, recycle the clippings or start a compost pile.</li>\n<li>Reduce water needs by mulching the garden beds around an existing lawn.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>Economic</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Decreases maintenance costs and reduces water bills. Once established, groundcovers appropriate to the site conditions require less upkeep than conventional turf grass.</li>\n<li>Reduces costs spent on fertilizers and pesticides.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Environmental</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Increases biodiversity and support of wildlife such as birds, insects, small amphibians, and small land mammals.</li>\n<li>Dense and short growing groundcover plants eliminate weeds, preserve moisture in the soil, and do not require mowing.</li>\n<li>Reduces the need for lawn irrigation (see <em>Water-Efficient Landscaping</em>).</li>\n<li>Groundcovers act as mulch, enhancing the soil.</li>\n<li>Groundcovers and native grasses require less maintenance to prevent soil erosion compared to turfgrass.</li>\n<li>Reduces toxic emissions released into the environment from lawnmowers.</li>\n<li>Reduces use of fossil fuels required by lawn and irrigation equipment.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Personal Wellness</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Saves time and labor.</li>\n<li>Connects people to the natural landscape.</li>\n<li>Creates a diverse and aesthetically pleasing outdoor environment.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>The cost of lawn alternatives varies depending on the type and size of the landscape. For example, cost per square foot of alternative groundcovers depends upon the type of plants chosen and the size of the groundcover. The higher initial cost of selecting plants specific to the site pays for itself over time through reduced maintenance costs compared to less adaptive and higher-maintenance turf grass.</p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency</strong></h2>\n<p>Replacing conventional turf grass with native plants and water-efficient landscaping promotes resiliency by decreasing water use and reducing the reliance and stress on municipal water infrastructure. Alternatives to turf grass can also increase groundwater infiltration, helping to slow stormwater runoff and reduce erosion during flooding events. Also, replacing turf grass with diverse native plants increases the biological diversity in a given area, which in turn, enhances the ability of the natural system to rebound after a disturbance.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a> American-Lawns. “Mixtures and Blends.” <a href=\"http://www.american-lawns.com/grasses/grass.html\">http://www.american-lawns.com/grasses/grass.html</a> (accessed March 22, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a> University of Delaware College of Agriculture &amp; Natural Resources. “Turf Grass Madness: Reasons to Reduce the Lawn in Your Landscape.”  <a href=\"http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Turf_Grass_Madness.pdf\">http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Turf_Grass_Madness.pdf</a> (accessed March 22, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a> U.S. EPA.  Outdoor Water Use in the United States.  <a href=\"https://19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/www3/watersense/pubs/outdoor.html\">https://19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/www3/watersense/pubs/outdoor.html</a> (accessed March 22, 2018)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a> US EPA, University of West Virginia. “Managing Turfgrass and Garden Fertilizer Application to Prevent Contamination of Drinking Water.” <a href=\"http://nesc.wvu.edu/smart/training/toolkit/page1/SWPPT_bulletins/turfgrass.pdf\">http://nesc.wvu.edu/smart/training/toolkit/page1/SWPPT_bulletins/turfgrass.pdf</a> (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a> University of California, Irvine.  Turfgrass. <a href=\"https://news.uci.edu/2010/01/19/turfgrass/\">https://news.uci.edu/2010/01/19/turfgrass/</a>  (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a> NJ DEP. 2015. New Jersey Natural Heritage Program. <a href=\"https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/natural/heritage/\">https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/natural/heritage/</a> (accessed Sept 20, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\">[7]</a> Earth Institute at Columbia University.  “The Problem of Lawns.” <a href=\"http://blogs.ei.columbia.edu/2010/06/04/the-problem-of-lawns/\">http://blogs.ei.columbia.edu/2010/06/04/the-problem-of-lawns/</a> (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\">[8]</a> Less Lawn. “Native Grass Lawns.” <a href=\"http://www.lesslawn.com/articles/article1010.html\">http://www.lesslawn.com/articles/article1010.html</a> (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\">[9]</a> The Nature Conservancy. Habitat Network. Native Grasses for your Native Lawn. <a href=\"http://content.yardmap.org/learn/native-grasses-for-your-native-lawn/\">http://content.yardmap.org/learn/native-grasses-for-your-native-lawn/</a> (accessed November 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\">[10]</a> University of Delaware College of Agriculture &amp; Natural Resources. “Groundcover Alternatives to Turf Grass.”  <a href=\"http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Groundcovers.pdf\">http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Groundcovers.pdf</a> (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\">[11]</a> Ibid.</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.16\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nc-native-and-adapted-plants/\">Native and Adapted Plants</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/rain-gardens-and-cisterns/\">Rain Gardens</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-water-efficient-landscaping/\">Water-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.16\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.audubon.org/bird/at_home/pdf/AAHPA-21-32-Lawn.pdf\">Audubon Society – Lawn Alternatives</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.cleanwaternj.org/garden.html\">Clean Water NJ – In the Garden</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.jerseyyards.org/jersey-friendly-plants/\">Jersey-Friendly Yards</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.npsnj.org/\">Native Plant Society of New Jersey</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.nwf.org/NativePlantFinder/About\">Native Plant Finder</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://content.yardmap.org/learn/native-grasses-for-your-native-lawn/\">Nature Conservancy – Habitat Network</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.nj.gov/dep/watershedrestoration/waterbook_chp6.html\">NJ DEP Lawn and Garden Care</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/county/\">Rutgers NJ Agriculture Experiment Station</a>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/subcategory.php?cat=5&amp;sub=35\">Commercial Turfgrass and Landscape Maintenance Fact Sheets &amp; Bulletins</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://turf.rutgers.edu/\">Center for Turfgrass Science</a></li>\n</ul>\n</li>\n<li><a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/Rain_Gardens/RGWebsite/RainGardenManualofNJ.html\">Rutgers Water Resource Program – Rain Garden Manual of New Jersey</a></li>\n</ul>\n<p><strong>University Extension Services – Groundcovers</strong></p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Groundcovers.pdf\">Delaware</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/groundcover-list\">Maryland</a></li>\n</ul>\n<p>US Environmental Protection Agency</p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://archive.epa.gov/wastes/conserve/tools/greenscapes/web/html/brochure.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">US EPA Greenscapes: Environmentally Beneficial Landscaping</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NC Turf Grass Reduction','','inherit','closed','closed','','1134-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:56:56','2022-06-23 17:56:56','',1134,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2503',0,'revision','',0),(2504,3,'2022-06-23 17:57:18','2022-06-23 17:57:18','[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" _builder_version=\"3.22\" background_color=\"#f7f7f7\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=\"Turfgrass Reduction\" subhead=\"New Residential\" text_orientation=\"center\" content_max_width=\"none\" _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" background_color=\"rgba(255, 255, 255, 0)\" background_layout=\"light\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\" button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=\"off\"][/et_pb_fullwidth_header][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"2_3,1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" background_size=\"initial\" background_position=\"top_left\" background_repeat=\"repeat\" width=\"90%\" max_width=\"1200px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][et_pb_column type=\"2_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" custom_padding=\"||5px|||\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>What is Turfgrass?</h2>\n<p>Turfgrass refers to a form of grass used when growing a lawn and typically includes species such as bluegrass, rye, and fescue.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn1\" name=\"_ednref1\">[1]</a><span> </span>These species, referred to as conventional turf grass, grow evenly and to a uniform height when maintained. Conventional turf grass requires high levels of maintenance, irrigation, and fertilization to achieve a consistently green and manicured look. Turfgrass had become common in the United States after post-World War II when it became a mainstream middle-class status symbol. At that time many types of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers were becoming commercially available.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn2\" name=\"_ednref2\">[2]</a></p>\n<p>Alternatives to conventional turf grass lawns include replacing the lawn with native grasses or groundcover and reducing the size of the lawn by incorporating other types of natural landscaping or garden beds (see<span> </span><em>Native and Adapted Plants,<span> </span></em><em>and Wildlife Habitat</em>). There are many varieties of groundcovers, including those that are edible or flowering. Groundcover refers to plants that, once established, form a uniform layer over the ground and require little to no maintenance. Native grasses are species of grass that are native to a particular area and climate. These grasses require less maintenance and are less susceptible to pests (see<span> </span><em>Integrated Pest Management</em>).</p>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"][caption id=\"attachment_309\" align=\"aligncenter\" width=\"468\"]<img class=\"wp-image-309 size-full\" src=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/NR-Turf-Grass-Reduction-Fig-1.png\" alt=\"Figure 1 – Blue Wood Sedge (Source: Courtesy of North Creek Nurseries)\" width=\"468\" height=\"494\" /> Figure 1 – Blue Wood Sedge (Source: Courtesy of North Creek Nurseries)[/caption][/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<p>Reasons to consider reducing the use of turfgrass include:</p>\n<p><u>High Maintenance Requirements</u></p>\n<p>Lawns require frequent and sometimes costly maintenance. Lawn maintenance often involves hiring lawn care employees, purchasing fertilizers, and maintaining lawn care equipment. Lawns may require mowing multiple times a week during the peak growing season. During a drought, lawns require irrigation. Landscapes consume 9 billion gallons of water each day in the United States, mostly to irrigate lawns (see<span> </span><em>Water-Efficient Landscaping</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn3\" name=\"_ednref3\">[3]</a></p>\n<p><u>High Pollution Outputs that Create Public Health Risks</u></p>\n<p>Lawn care chemicals can pose a threat to people, pets and the environment. Studies have found numerous adverse health consequences associated with the synthetic chemicals found in traditional lawn care products, especially for children due to their size, physiological development and proximity to the ground.</p>\n<p>Lawns can also contribute to water pollution as chemicals used to treat lawns combine with stormwater runoff and flow into freshwater supplies, adversely affecting plants and animal life. Many commercial lawns require frequent fertilization to maintain quality turf grass. Excessive fertilizer use can also lead to fertilizers entering sources of drinking water.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn4\" name=\"_ednref4\">[4]</a></p>\n<p>Note that while conventional turf grass does help remove carbon dioxide from the air, the amount sequestered does not cancel out the greenhouse gas emissions produced from fertilizer production, mowing, leaf blowing and other lawn management practices (see<span> </span><em>Energy-Efficient Landscaping</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn5\" name=\"_ednref5\">[5]</a></p>\n<p><u>Lack of Biodiversity</u></p>\n<p>Conventional turfgrass lawns lack biodiversity, an essential component of healthy ecosystems, and do not support a wide variety of birds, beneficial insects, small amphibians, and small land mammals.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn6\" name=\"_ednref6\">[6]</a></p>\n<h2>How to Reduce the Use of Turf Grass</h2>\n<p>In New Jersey, homeowners account for 76 percent of the state’s 880,542 acres of turf grass.<span> </span><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn7\" name=\"_ednref7\">[7]</a><span> </span>On average, lawns take up half of an average lot size.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn8\" name=\"_ednref8\">[8]</a><span> </span>Many fiscally and environmentally responsible alternatives to lawns exist such as minimizing turfgrass areas, using more eco-friendly grass species for remaining turf areas, and planting a wide variety of low-maintenance trees, shrubs, and perennials to create garden spaces, rain gardens, and native habitats (see Rain Gardens). When designing an alternative lawn, select eco-friendly grass and grass-like species such as native sedges and meadow mixes and limit turf areas for defining garden edges, active recreation areas, pathways between planting beds and other structural and functional purposes.<span> </span><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn9\" name=\"_ednref9\">[9]</a><span> </span>Native grasses and sedges can provide a low maintenance alternative with high ecological value.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn10\" name=\"_ednref10\">[10]</a></p>\n<p><u>Use Groundcover or Native Grasses</u></p>\n<p>Groundcovers refer to low-growing plants including native grasses and sedges but also include taller trees and shrubs that grow together to form dense vegetation. Choose groundcovers that require little maintenance and support wildlife.<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn11\" name=\"_ednref11\">[11]</a><span> </span> Increasing the size of shrub beds and adding groundcovers can facilitate the reduction of erosion and water runoff (see<span> </span><em>Erosion Control</em>).<a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn12\" name=\"_ednref12\">[12]</a><span> </span>Select non-invasive groundcovers that do not threaten plant biodiversity or affect wildlife that depends on native species as a food source.<span> </span><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_edn13\" name=\"_ednref13\">10</a></p>\n<ul>\n<li>To select an appropriate groundcover, talk with the local cooperative extension agent and refer to the<span> </span><a href=\"http://www.npsnj.org/\">NJ Native Plant Society’s</a><span> </span>listing of native and invasive species and the Native Plant Finder. Native species often vary across regions, even within New Jersey. Note that the USDA identifies New Jersey as being in Hardiness Zones 5 through 7.</li>\n<li>To contain groundcovers, install an edge barrier such as a row of low bricks or wood frame. Extend edging a few inches into the soil to contain roots.</li>\n<li>Weed and mulch groundcover regularly, especially in the first year of planting.</li>\n<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/county/\">County Extension Offices</a><span> </span>trains volunteer in each county through its Master Gardeners Program to provide guidance on lawn alternatives.</li>\n</ul>\n<p><u>Tips on Removing Lawn</u></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Use a sod cutter to remove sections of existing lawn gradually.</li>\n<li>Remove existing lawn but do not disturb the soil as turning the soil allows weeds to compete with the new native seedlings.</li>\n</ul>\n<p><u>Tips for Caring for Existing Lawns</u></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Keep mower at 2 1⁄2 inches, water in the early morning and de-thatch if thatch reaches more than 1⁄2 inch in thickness. Cutting lawns too short decreases root growth.</li>\n<li>Leave clippings on the lawn as a natural source of nitrogen for the soil, recycle the clippings or start a compost pile.</li>\n<li>Reduce water needs by mulching the garden beds around an existing lawn.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2><strong>Benefits</strong></h2>\n<p>Economic</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Decreases maintenance costs and reduces water bills. Once established, groundcovers appropriate to the site conditions require less upkeep than conventional turf grass.</li>\n<li>Reduces costs spent on fertilizers and pesticides.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Environmental</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Increases in biodiversity and support of wildlife such as birds, insects, small amphibians, and small land mammals.</li>\n<li>Dense and short growing groundcover plants eliminate weeds, preserve moisture in the soil, and do not require mowing.</li>\n<li>Reduces the need for lawn irrigation.</li>\n<li>Groundcovers act as mulch, enhancing the soil.</li>\n<li>Groundcovers and native grasses require less maintenance to prevent soil erosion compared to turfgrass.</li>\n<li>Reduces toxic emissions released into the environment from lawnmowers.</li>\n<li>Reduces use of fossil fuels required by lawn and irrigation equipment.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Personal Wellness</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Saves time and labor.</li>\n<li>Connects people to the natural landscape.</li>\n<li>Creates a diverse and aesthetically pleasing outdoor environment.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2><strong>Costs</strong></h2>\n<p>The cost of lawn alternatives varies depending on the type and size of the landscape. For example, cost per square foot of alternative groundcovers depends upon the type of plants chosen and the size of the groundcover. The higher initial cost of selecting plants specific to the site pays for itself over time through reduced maintenance costs compared to less adaptive and higher-maintenance turfgrass.</p>\n<h2><strong>Resiliency</strong></h2>\n<p>Replacing conventional turf grass with native plants and water-efficient landscaping promotes resiliency by decreasing water use and reducing the reliance and stress on municipal water infrastructure. Alternatives to turf grass can also increase groundwater infiltration, helping to slow stormwater runoff and reduce erosion during flooding events. Also, replacing turf grass with diverse native plants, increases the biological diversity in a given area, which in turn, enhances the ability of the natural system to rebound after a disturbance.</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref1\" name=\"_edn1\">[1]</a><span> </span>American-Lawns. “Mixtures and Blends.”<span> </span><a href=\"http://www.american-lawns.com/grasses/grass.html\">http://www.american-lawns.com/grasses/grass.html</a><span> </span>(accessed March 22, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref2\" name=\"_edn2\">[2]</a>  University of Delaware College of Agriculture &amp; Natural Resources. “Turf Grass Madness: Reasons to Reduce the Lawn in Your Landscape.” <span> </span><a href=\"http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Turf_Grass_Madness.pdf\">http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Turf_Grass_Madness.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed March 22, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref3\" name=\"_edn3\">[3]</a><span> </span>U.S. EPA.  Outdoor Water Use in the United States. <span> </span><a href=\"https://19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/www3/watersense/pubs/outdoor.html\">https://19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/www3/watersense/pubs/outdoor.html</a><span> </span>(accessed March 22, 2018)</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref4\" name=\"_edn4\">[4]</a><span> </span>US EPA, University of West Virginia. “Managing Turfgrass and Garden Fertilizer Application to Prevent Contamination of Drinking Water.”<span> </span><a href=\"http://nesc.wvu.edu/smart/training/toolkit/page1/SWPPT_bulletins/turfgrass.pdf\">http://nesc.wvu.edu/smart/training/toolkit/page1/SWPPT_bulletins/turfgrass.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref5\" name=\"_edn5\">[5]</a><span> </span>University of California, Irvine.  Turfgrass.<span> </span><a href=\"https://news.uci.edu/2010/01/19/turfgrass/\">https://news.uci.edu/2010/01/19/turfgrass/</a>  (accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref6\" name=\"_edn6\">[6]</a><span> </span>NJ DEP. 2015. New Jersey Natural Heritage Program.<span> </span><a href=\"https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/natural/heritage/\">https://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/natural/heritage/</a><span> </span>(accessed Sept 20, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref7\" name=\"_edn7\">[7]</a><span> </span>880,542 acres is equal to 18 percent of NJ’s total land area.<span> </span><a href=\"http://www.turf.rutgers.edu/outreach/econsurvexecsummfullreport.pdf\">www.turf.rutgers.edu/outreach/econsurvexecsummfullreport.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed April 15, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref8\" name=\"_edn8\">[8]</a><span> </span>The Center for Turf grass Science. The New Jersey Turf grass Industry Economic Survey. February 2007.<span> </span><a href=\"http://www.turf.rutgers.edu/outreach/econsurvexecsummfullreport.pdf\">www.turf.rutgers.edu/outreach/econsurvexecsummfullreport.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed April 15, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref9\" name=\"_edn9\">[9]</a><span> </span>Less Lawn. “Native Grass Lawns.”<span> </span><a href=\"http://www.lesslawn.com/articles/article1010.html\">http://www.lesslawn.com/articles/article1010.html</a><span> </span>(accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref10\" name=\"_edn10\">[10]</a><span> </span>The Nature Conservancy. Habitat Network. Native Grasses for Your Native Lawn.<span> </span><a href=\"http://content.yardmap.org/learn/native-grasses-for-your-native-lawn/\">http://content.yardmap.org/learn/native-grasses-for-your-native-lawn/</a><span> </span>(accessed November 11, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref11\" name=\"_edn11\">[11]</a><span> </span>University of Delaware College of Agriculture &amp; Natural Resources. “Groundcover Alternatives to Turf Grass.” <span> </span><a href=\"http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Groundcovers.pdf\">http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Groundcovers.pdf</a><span> </span>(accessed March 23, 2018).</p>\n<p><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-turf-grass-reduction/#_ednref12\" name=\"_edn12\">[12]</a><span> </span>Ibid.</p>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_3\" _builder_version=\"4.14.8\" custom_padding=\"||||false|false\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<h2>Related Strategies</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-energy-efficient-landscaping/\">Energy-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-erosion-control/\">Erosion Control</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/integrated-pest-management-ipm/\">Integrated Pest Management</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-native-and-adapted-plants/\">Native and Adapted Plants</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-rain-gardens/\">Rain Gardens</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-water-efficient-landscaping/\">Water-Efficient Landscaping</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/nr-wildlife-habitat/\">Wildlife Habitat</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.14.9\" _module_preset=\"default\" hover_enabled=\"0\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_enabled=\"0\"]<h2>Resources</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.audubon.org/bird/at_home/pdf/AAHPA-21-32-Lawn.pdf\">Audubon Society – Lawn Alternatives</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.cleanwaternj.org/garden.html\">Clean Water NJ – In the Garden</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.jerseyyards.org/jersey-friendly-plants/\">Jersey-Friendly Yards</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.npsnj.org/\">Native Plant Society of New Jersey</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://www.nwf.org/NativePlantFinder/About\">Native Plant Finder</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://content.yardmap.org/learn/native-grasses-for-your-native-lawn/\">Nature Conservancy – Habitat Network</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://www.nj.gov/dep/watershedrestoration/waterbook_chp6.html\">NJ DEP Lawn and Garden Care</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/county/\">Rutgers NJ Agriculture Experiment Station</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://njaes.rutgers.edu/pubs/subcategory.php?cat=5&amp;sub=35\">Commercial Turfgrass and Landscape Maintenance Fact Sheets &amp; Bulletins</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://turf.rutgers.edu/\">Center for Turfgrass Science</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"http://water.rutgers.edu/Rain_Gardens/RGWebsite/RainGardenManualofNJ.html\">Rutgers Water Resource Program – Rain Garden Manual of New Jersey</a></li>\n<li>University Extension Services – Groundcovers\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"http://ag.udel.edu/udbg/sl/vegetation/Groundcovers.pdf\">Delaware</a></li>\n<li><a href=\"https://web.archive.org/web/20170911143317/http://extension.umd.edu:80/hgic/groundcover-list\">Maryland</a></li>\n</ul>\n</li>\n<li><a href=\"https://archive.epa.gov/greenbuilding/web/pdf/brochure.pdf\">US EPA Greenscapes: Environmentally Beneficial Landscaping</a></li>\n</ul>[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]','NR Turfgrass Reduction','','inherit','closed','closed','','1263-revision-v1','','','2022-06-23 17:57:18','2022-06-23 17:57:18','',1263,'https://greenmanual.rutgers.edu/?p=2504',0,'revision','',0),