Ecological considerations in greenway design
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2000
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Biological Sciences
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Abstract
In 1990, Charles Little defined greenways in the above manner. Throughout the years, the definition would take on numerous variations. However, despite the variations, greenways have always been capable of being classified into five categories: urban riverside greenways, recreational greenways, ecologically significant natural corridors, scenic and historic routes, and comprehensive greenway systems or networks. Ecologically significant natural corridors occur most often along streams and rivers, and occasionally ridge lines, and provide an area for wildlife migration, nature study, and hiking (Little, 1990). These ecologically significant natural corridors have become the focus of much attention as urbanization continues to threaten much of the existing wildlife habitat. Multiple states, including the state of Maryland, have created plans to develop networks of greenways throughout the nation. Wicomico County, in which Salisbury State University is located, has recently begun to develop a system of greenways throughout the county. As a county which holds many significant ecological habitats, it is desirable that the creation of greenways is pursued in the most environmentally sound manner possible. Numerous examples of greenways with ecological designs have been completed in recent years and could serve as a means of comparison and provide a wealth of suggestions for the design processes to be used by Wicomico County.