10- Environmental Impacts and Mitigation
Technical-Environmental Summary of the Reedy Creek Harmony Life Project
Project Name: Harmony Life
Location: 17704 Grove Blossom Way, Orange County, Florida
Total Area: 23 acres
Site Ecological Classification: Class I Wetland
Key Project Features
Stilted Design:
All buildings are elevated 10 feet above the wetland level, with no use of landfill or alteration of the natural substrate.
Land Occupancy:
Only 20% of the total area is occupied, preserving 80% of the original ecosystem.
Internal Circulation Roads:
The only areas with localized landfill will be roads, designed with box culverts to ensure continuous water flow and allow wildlife passage.
Mitigation and Sustainability Strategies
Avoiding Direct Impacts to Wetlands:
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No construction directly on wet ground.
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Natural hydrological flows and ecological processes are preserved.
Green Infrastructure:
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Adaptive design that integrates with the surrounding environment.
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Potential incorporation of elevated trails, ambient lighting, ecological signage, and environmental education features.
Ecological Connectivity:
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Preservation of biological corridors through full elevation of the development.
Potential Environmental Effects
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Partial shading on vegetation
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Alteration of local microclimate
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Human presence near the ecosystem
Applied Mitigation Measures
Elevated Stilted Design:
Avoids any contact with the ground, preserving wetland characteristics.
Low Land Occupancy (20%):
Maintains a large portion of the ecosystem intact and functional.
Guaranteed Ecological Flow:
Ensures air, water, and wildlife circulation beneath structures without obstruction.
No Landfill or Substrate Alteration:
Thus, no wetland impact permits are required.
Nature-Integrated Spaces:
Incorporates elevated walkways, observation areas, and educational signage to foster connection with the environment without harming it.
