To earn credit for minimizing disturbed area of the site on a previously developed lot, what is essential?

To earn credit for minimizing disturbed area on a previously developed lot, developing a tree or plant preservation plan is essential because it directly addresses the health and preservation of existing vegetation. This plan outlines strategies to protect existing trees and plants during construction activities, thereby minimizing site disturbance and promoting ecological integrity.

By preserving existing vegetation, a project can significantly reduce the amount of landscape that needs to be disturbed, which not only conserves natural resources but also supports local biodiversity and wildlife habitats. This approach also helps in managing stormwater, reducing soil erosion, and maintaining aesthetic qualities of the site, all of which are important goals in sustainable site development.

While creating a landscape design, installing a new fence, and conducting a soil test may be relevant to the overall project, they do not directly contribute to the minimization of disturbed areas in the same way that a tree or plant preservation plan does. Properly preserving existing plants ensures that the ecological footprint of the project remains minimal, which is a core requirement for earning credit in this area.