Next Steps
The initiative is a five-year project that will include pilot projects and develop three products: Standards and Guidelines, Rating System and Reference Guide. Currently in progress is the development of the first product, the Standards and Guidelines. Preliminary findings of this product were released in November 2007. Feedback received during the public review period (which ended January 11, 2008) was reviewed by project staff and a response was posted on March 11, 2008 (see "Review Process"). An updated draft on the Standards and Guidelines will be released in November 2008.
Please see the timeline and brief descriptions of the products below. For more information or to get involved, please contact us at info@sustainablesites.org.
Standards and Guidelines (September 2006–May 2009)
A compilation of current research, technology, and practices to provide technical
guidance and performance benchmarks and solicit feedback.
Rating System (May 2009–2011)
Sustainable landscape performance benchmarks with weighed credits and a recognition
system.
Pilot Projects phase (2010-2012)
Pilot projects will test the Standards and Guidelines and the Rating System. The
knowledge gained from these pilot projects will be incorporated in the Reference
Guide and will clarify and improve the performance goals.
A user guide containing information from pilot projects that will explain credit requirements and provide resources to aid in creative problem-solving.