HIGHLANDER POINT: A GATEWAY - Floyd County Indiana

Conservation Design 26Conservation SubdivisionAttributesDesignated open space should be locatedto protect environmentally sensitivefeatures. In most cases, it can also providenearby residents benefits such as scenicvistas and recreation areas which addvalue and increase marketability.The location and functions of neighborhoodconservation areas should be the first thingthe developer designs, not the last. If theproperty is blessed with a good fishingstream or notable wildlife habitat, theconservation areas should be configured toprotect these resources.perspective and possibly linked to formgreenways.Social and RecreationalAdvantages• Common open space provides attractiveareas for neighbors to meet informallyand socialize.• Common open space may be designatedfor recreational uses such as biking,walking or ball playing all of whichpromote social interaction.• Smaller yards to tend can provideresidents with more leisure time.Environmental Advantages:For Water Quality• Common open space can be designatedas buffers to protect wetlands, streamsand ponds.• Water quality is enhanced whenimpervious surfaces such as streets,driveways and pipes are minimized.• Where appropriate, stormwater andsewage treatment facilities can belocated within the open space.While recreational use of the open area isoften appropriate, locating a ball field onthe banks of a trout stream, where soil andfertilizer might wash to the water, shouldbe avoided. Ultimately, to retain ruralcharacter and protect habitat, conservationareas need to viewed in a regionalIdeal Rural Open SpaceCreated Nature Preserves