Landscape Architects are imperative in city planning, rejuvenation and regeneration.  They create healthy, livable spaces for all people and communities.  They are advocates for the security and resiliency of natural resources and fragile environments and work to enhance natural biodiversity.  They address climate change and the real long-term effects it can have on our communities.  They work on mitigating those changes through sustainable practices and green infrastructures.  Landscape Architects help mitigate human impacts on the earth.  They are an integral part of the design community, bridging design, culture and nature.  They design for a better future; one that is healthier, more sustainable and inclusive.  It is vitally important to have individuals who are educated, have experience and are licensed in their field of practice as a measure of their adequacy.

Without landscape architects, cities would be poorly designed and there would be a breakdown of spatial functions.  There would be a collapse of the relationship between humans and the natural world and irreparable damage would be done to our designed spaces.  Stormwater would go unchecked, leading to the degradation of stream banks, hillsides and ditches.  Quality of life in all communities, from urban to suburban would become bleaker; less greenspace, less clean air, less care in planned spaces and movement, heat islands, water and soil pollution…  The connection between Landscape Architects, design and the health of the ecosystems and our communities go hand-in-hand.  Choosing to not license Landscape Architects would be detrimental in the continuation of pursuing healthy, safe, sustainable and beautiful communities.  All would suffer without a qualified advocate for the importance in the connection between design and nature.

I am a strong supporter of continued licensing for Landscape Architects.