Mark Hostetler 
The Green Leap 
A Primer for Conserving Biodiversity in Subdivision Development

Written for anyone interested in green development—including policy makers, architects, developers, builders, and homeowners—this practical guide focuses on the central question of how to conserve biodiversity in neighborhoods and to minimize development impacts on surrounding habitats.
The Green Leap specifically helps move green development beyond the design stage by thoroughly addressing construction and post-construction issues.


Incorporating many real-world examples, Mark Hostetler explains key conservation concepts and techniques, with specific advice for a wide variety of stakeholders that are interested in creating and maintaining green developments. He outlines the key players and principles needed to establish biodiverse communities and illustrates eight key design and management strategies.
The Green Leap not only offers essential information for constructing new developments but also helps existing communities retrofit homes, yards, and neighborhoods to better serve both people and nature.

Table of Content

List of Boxed Texts

Preface and Acknowledgments


Part One. Key Principles and Players

1. Why Build Biodiverse Communities?

2. Urban Decision Makers


Part Two. The Devil Is in the Details

3. Tree Protection and Natural Area Preservation Strategies

4. Improving Community Engagement and Understanding

5. Landscaping and Individual Lots

6. Trails, Sidewalks, and Common Areas

7. Irrigation and Stormwater Treatment

8. Wildlife-Friendly Transportation Systems

9. Environmental Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions

10. Certifying Green Communities

In Summary


Notes

Index

About the author

Mark E. Hostetler is a Professor in the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida, Gainesville.