Why Site Planning is Important

Land unsuited for a particular use or activity is at risk of being degraded, leading to possible environmental damage that may be expensive to repair or maintain and which may still not be used as intended.

The key to reducing long-term development and maintenance costs is to match as closely as possible your needs to the capability of the landscape. The shape of the land, soils, hydrology, and vegetation are the basic elements that determine the types of uses that can be supported.

The goal of responsible planning and design is to make use of the land while preserving and enhancing its productivity. The environmental, aesthetic, and economic value, of the land should increase through your thoughtful stewardship.

There is a wealth of useful information available to new and current landowners. Unfortunately, a great deal of this information is specific to a particular subject and does not look at the broader picture of how a variety of activities can or should come together as a whole. At Rural Land Design, we help you consider all the activities and how they relate to each other and the land.

Building locations, roads, ponds, pastures, waste disposal, well locations, outbuildings, utility access, water distribution, wildlife habitat protection and enhancement are a few of the critical activities that your land must or may need to accommodate. Other items such guest houses, pools, gardens, orchards, workshops, etc. may come later but need to be considered early to make sure they will fit with the rest of the site and that needed utilities can be added.

If you have visions of using your land as an income generator for agricultural products or niche-marketing something you craft yourself, it is vital to plan your property carefully. Inviting visitors to your property will mean that safety and aesthetics will be important issues for you and your clients.

Having livestock on your property requires careful attention to their care and safety and also to that of yourself and visitors. Animals have a big impact on the land and managing that impact is very important to prevent damage to your property.

Planning early for your rural lifestyle is the best first step to achieving your vision for an attractive and productive home-site. We at Rural Land Design look forward to helping you accomplish your goals.