UF/IFAS faculty member publishes book on how to get green development done

February 8, 2012

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — A University of Florida professor who has spent more than a decade studying urban biodiversity conservation has published a new book outlining what it takes to build and maintain ecologically friendly housing developments.

In “The Green Leap: A Primer for Conserving Biodiversity in Subdivision Development,” author Mark Hostetler writes for audiences ranging from policy makers and land developers to potential homeowners.

The book offers detailed information about building green developments, but it also can be used to retrofit existing communities.

Part of his aim in writing the book was to help cities and developers avoid potential pitfalls when attempting to conserve biodiversity when land is subdivided, he said. The trick is to address design issues while paying attention to construction and post-construction issues.

For instance, a developer may set aside a common area as a natural preserve. But if there are no management plans for both the built and conserved areas, much can go wrong. During construction, heavy equipment can dramatically impact conserved areas. After construction, a well-meaning landscaper or resident might bring in an invasive plant that takes over, or free-roaming pets may prey upon local wildlife.

Hostetler said he’s happy to see increasing interest from cities, developers and the public in green developments.

“Every time you can build a model green community, it makes it easier for the next person who comes through,” he said. “One thing I’ve learned, it’s not easy. But for all of those steps that have to be taken, it makes the planning process just a little bit easier for the next person.”

The book discusses the dynamic relationship among residents, developers, and policy makers and what each stakeholder must do to build functional green communities. Specific design and management strategies are discussed and topics range from tree and natural area protection to community engagement and wildlife-friendly transportation systems.

The book is published by the University of California Press and available now.