I am a licensed landscape architect (Virginia #1100) with over 20 years of experience practicing landscape architecture in the State of Virginia. I graduated from the 5-year accredited landscape architecture degree program at Virginia Tech in 1997, and continue to maintain my professional credentials through continuing education, professional practice, and regular involvement in the Virginia Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects. I currently work as a Senior Planner in the Planning Department of Chesterfield County. In my day-to-day work reviewing and approving commercial site plans, residential subdivision plans, and building permits, as well my involvement in longer-range planning projects, public health, safety, and welfare, are of primary concern. Our work in the Planning Department also has a direct impact on economic viability within the County and surrounding region. Maintaining my credentials as a licensed landscape architect, regulated by the State, provides a critical measure of competency that directly impacts the citizens and development community within the County. Achieving licensure was no small task in the course of my career which involved acquiring the education, gaining the necessary years of experience, and passing the landscape architecture licensure exam. I feel it would be a severe detriment to both myself as a professional, and those I serve through practice, if landscape architects were deregulated in the State of Virginia.
I respectfully request that you SUPPORT continued regulation of professional landscape architects in the State of Virginia. In your consideration, please note the following regarding the licensure of our profession: