Winch of the following minor improvements within a required buffer zone may be undertaken to enhance appreciation for a wetland or body of water, provided such facilities are open to public access?

Winch of the following minor improvements within a required buffer zone may be undertaken to enhance appreciation for a wetland or body of water, provided such facilities are open to public access?
A . Build one single-story structure not exceeding 1.000 ft2 (93 m2) per 300 linear feet of Outer, on average
B . Remove hazardous trees, up to 100% of dead trees, and trees less than eight in. (20 cm) in diameter at breast height
C . Add bicycle and pedestrian pathways that are no more than 12 ft. (3.5 m) wide and where no more than 8 ft. (2.5 m) of their width may be impervious
D . Create new clearings, not exceeding 1.000 ft2 (95 m2) each, for tables, benches and access for recreational watercraft

View Answer

Answer: C

Explanation:

Within the required buffer zone around a wetland or body of water, minor improvements such as the ddition of bicycle and pedestrian pathways are permitted under specific conditions. The pathways ust not exceed 12 feet (3.5 meters) in width, and no more than 8 feet (2.5 meters) of their width an be impervious (non-permeable).

Detailed Explanation

Buffer Zone Requirements:

LEED-ND has strict guidelines for protecting wetlands and water bodies to maintain their ecological ntegrity. However, the rating system allows for certain minor improvements within these buffer ones to enhance public access and appreciation of these natural features.

Pathway Specifications:

The specified limits on the width and imperviousness of the pathways ensure that the improvements do not significantly disrupt the natural hydrology or increase runoff into the wetland or water body. By limiting the impervious surface area, the pathways allow for better water infiltration and reduce the potential for erosion or other negative impacts on the ecosystem. Public Access:

Providing public access through such pathways aligns with LEED’s goals of promoting sustainable and ealthy communities by encouraging outdoor recreation and non-motorized transportation while reserving the natural environment.

Reference: The LEED Reference Guide for Neighborhood Development provides detailed criteria for permissible activities within buffer zones.

The LEED v4 Neighborhood Development documentation further elaborates on the conditions under which minor improvements, like pathways, can be implemented.

For additional details, refer to:

LEED Reference Guide for Neighborhood Development

LEED v4 Neighborhood Development