Alvar in the post industrial: (re) introducing alvar plant communities in the inwood quarry
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Date
2014-09-05
Authors
Johnson, Kaila
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Abstract
This practicum investigates the reintroduction of a globally recognized at-risk plant community, Alvar, into an abandoned limestone quarry, located in the town of Inwood, in the Interlake Region of Manitoba. Alvar develops naturally over the
course of thousands of years, and also naturally exists on exposed limestone bedrock, which is subsequently one of the greatest indicators of suitable areas for limestone quarrying. By utilizing recent techniques proven to be effective in Alvar regeneration, this practicum focuses on the landscape architect as a pivotal tool in creating a functional landscape, both in terms of environmental, social, and economic integrity. Using an ecotourism-based approach to engage the public with the site, while creating a platform for Alvar regeneration and future scientific research initiatives provides an economic, ecological, and social solution to some of the most negatively viewed aspects of the area. This practicum offers an alternative solution to traditional quarry rehabilitation strategies as well as the at-risk Alvar plant communities: strengthening
it by reintroducing it in a post-industrial landscape, while raising awareness about its
historic and ecological significance in an ecotourism-based outlet.
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Keywords
landscape architecture, quarry, alvar, limestone, tourism, remediation