Ecosystem Architects

Make a Restoration Plan

Open the Shopping Center Scenario. Note the location of the site relative to other land uses and the current inventory of plants on the site.

Open the Restoration Project Guide. [Note - This abbreviated version of the activity will not involve all the steps listed on the guide. Follow the instructions as written here.]

Think about the following factors related to your site. (Information is not provided, you decide what you want the characteristics to be.)

• Topography - Is the area flat? hilly?

• Location - Is it in a low area, or at a higher elevation?

• What are potential water sources?

• Soil - Since the area has been developed, what sort of soil exists now? How could you find out more about the soil and how to address any soil issues?

Open the Ecosystem Architects Jamboard.

1. Add a sticky note and list one animal that might do well on the site, and would be compatible with other activity in the area. (See the additional resources listed below if you are not sure about kinds of animals that might do well on urban sites.)

2. What sort of plants would support the animal you selected? (grasses, shrubs, trees, forbs (flowering plants)? List some plants that would provide habitat for the animal you selected. (Initial your sticky note.)

Following are some additional resources on creating wildlife habitat in urban areas:

1. • NRCS Wildlife Habitat Tip Sheet

   • NWF - Wildlife Friendly Habitat Resources

The types of animals you would like to attract to the site, and the plants that would provide habitat for them are foundations of site development. The longer version of the activity would address more specific planning for the site including arrangement, water sources and more.