What is a multi-functional landscape?
A multi-functional landscape provides a range of environmental, social, and economic functions with interests of landowners and users in mind.
This article will be based off the following research article: Creating multifunctional landscapes: how can the field of ecology inform the design of the landscape? By Sarah Taylor Lovell and Douglas M. Johnston
For Ecosystem Science and Management taught by Dr. Sutton at Tennessee State University, this article is for discussion on landscape ecology. The purpose of article discussions is to broaden horizons and create awareness of research being conducted in regards to specific areas.
The authors’ main point for the article: opportunities exist for ecosystem principles to influence the design of landscapes and ecologists should be involved in the process. This combines sustainability and cultural/aesthetic importance.
During my time at Tennessee Tech University in my Horticultural program, we discussed multi-functional landscapes. Some examples of these type of landscapes are edible landscapes, xeric landscaping, vegetation buffer zones between parking lots and drainage ways, waystations for butterflies, etc…
These types of landscapes serve more than just an aesthetic importance, they can provide resources for wildlife and even help encourage biodiversity.
The proposed steps for creating a multi-functional landscape are as follows:
- Defining the project site and landscape context
- Characterizing and analyzing landscape structure and functions
- Developing a master plan using ecosystem approach
- Designing sites to highlight ecological functions
- Monitor ecological functions
In order to properly define the project site, you have to remember that every site affects the surroundings, either positive or negative. What happens when commercial or residential buildings are built is that it separates part of the ecosystem.
Multifunctional landscapes should become a staple in every landscape and be implemented anywhere and everywhere.
Mary Quite Contrary 