"In the course of its relatively young history, this nation has changed the face of a
vast continent. Yet an ethic for shaping our land has also emerged, and we can claim a
remarkable array of outdoor spaces that enrich the human spirit and add immeasurably to
our quality of life."
-William H. Tishler
The magnitude of social and environmental problems has increased dramatically
during the post-World War II decades. The economic engine that has driven
uncontrolled development has often not been balanced by social, historical,
aesthetic, or environmental concerns. New development has replaced the rural
landscape with retail boxes, six-lane roads lined with parking lots and
billboards, and fast-food restaurants sitting next to historic buildings.
Design and planning can make a difference. In fact
the body of evidence in both the natural and built environments suggests that
inspired design can make a significant improvement in the lives of people and
the life of our planet. From the transformation of the grittiest urban centers
to the conservation of the grandest expanse of public lands, Americans have
accumulated an unparalleled record of achievement in the creation of landscapes
that enrich the human spirit.
The power of planning and design to connect seemingly
unrelated systems and resources lies at the heart of our ability to leave a
sustainable imprint on the planet. This is a lasting legacy for future generations.
From urban centers to national parks, from regional greenways to neighborhood
playgrounds, landscape planning and design is one of the most effective,
economical, and valuable methods of holistically addressing such topical issues
as clean water, transportation patterns, open space protection, and community
planning.
