Open Land Development

Goal:
Write a proposal discussing what you would develop on a specific undeveloped plot of ground. The goal is to develop something that would be as energy efficient and environmentally friendly as possible (or to defend with specific reasons why you would oppose development in that area. Unless you have a very persuasive argument, you will be developing something, i.e. students choosing not to develop must get permission to do an opposition-to-development paper). In this proposal you should explain what type of an impact your development would have on the environment based on your scientific field observations.

Procedure:
- Students will spend an afternoon in scientific observation of the Open Field and it’s surroundings.
- Students will do research and gather information about community in which they are going to be developing their “project”.
- Students will present their findings and ideas for development in the form of a proposal to the city commissioner and committee on city planning.

Notes:
- Students will be given access to use photos of the development site from the class web site.
- Students must cite origin of any material in the proposal that is not their own. (i.e. bibliography)
- Students are encouraged to use photos, maps, charts, drawings, drafts, and field observations.