Landscape Architect versus Contractor

[Kevin Peter]

We have a MAJOR drainage problem in the rear third of our back yard,
compounded by heavy clay soil. We want to hire someone to help us
solve the problem but are not sure who to approach. Would we need a
landscape architect to help with the planning? Or would a typical
landscape contractor be able to deal with the problem? What sort of
certification or qualifications should we be looking for? What do
landscape architects do, as opposed to landscape contractors?
Eventually we want to landscape the entire back yard but we will have
to deal with the water problem first. Any suggestions?

Thanks.. Kevin and Brenda

[Englishla]

Depending on what state you are in, a landscape contractor may or may not
have any certification or training in correcting drainage problems. In
alsmost every state, a person using the title of landscape architect has
been through a 4 - 5 year curriculum and passed a registration exam (3
day) that certifies a minimum level of compentency in the profession; in
addition to the college degree and passing the test, there is also a work
requirement (numer of years varies from state to state) that must be
satisfied before a person is allowed to be registered. The intent is to
protect the health, safety and welfare of the consuming public from people
who, by virtue of owning equipment, say they are qualified to correct
landscape/ site problems. Some contractors would be able to correct the
problem without a landscape architect's input but a better scenerio is for
you to contract with a landscape architect for a proper drainage plan and
then get his or her recommendation on reputable landscape contractors who
can move the earth (if necessary) to correct the situation. Your local
American Society of Landscape Architects should be able to give you a list
of LAs that do residential design work in your area.
engl...@aol.com (Ann English)

[Rob Witherspoon]

: We have a MAJOR drainage problem in the rear third of our back yard,

You should probably consult a hydraulic engineer or work with a firm that
has landscape architects and engineers on staff.

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Rob Witherspoon
Guelph Turfgrass Institute
http://www.uoguelph.ca/GTI
University of Guelph
Guelph, Ontario CANADA
USDA Z5a AgCan Z5b
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