ESCARPMENT
Since the Austin metro straddles the geological transition zone of the Balcones Fault, some urban sites have areas of severe slope, and occasionally the exposure of shear rocky edges and crevices. Steep slopes and ridges can also intensify the force of stormwater while inversely reducing infiltration creating specialized conditions, not only for plants to survive, but beneficial to human requirements.
ECOLOGY NOTEBOOK: ESCARPMENT
a.k.a.
What we’re calling an escarpment here, could also be described as:
- rough terrain
- cliff
- mountainside
- the next step’s a doozy
DESIGN SUPPORT
In addition to geological phenomena, many urban built structures like retaining walls and planters have effects that are similar to escarpment conditions, requiring design awareness regarding plant durability, stormwater flow, and human access.
REGIONAL ASSOCIATION
