Contractor Incorporates Land Management Program Knowledge into Sustainable Landscape Design

With 26 years of experience in land management programs working with a variety of ecosystems, Cape Neddick, N.H., resident Brian Wood has begun two distinct, yet ideologically linked, business ventures: BD-Wood LLC and BD-WoodScapes.

According to Wood, the mission behind each venture is simple.

"They are both committed to the design, development and advancement of ecologically responsible and low-impact projects that contribute to a sustainable global philosophy," he said.

Based on a program he developed through his years as an architectural designer, site designer and parks director in North Reading, Mass., both businesses incorporate the principles and best management practices of low-impact development, bio-retention systems, forestry and forest floor stewardship, stormwater management, naturalized diversity and sustainable landscapes.

At BD-Wood LLC, Wood designs and assists in the installation and maintenance of bio-retention systems, which are water filtration systems that use the "natural attributes of plants and soil to remove pollutants from stormwater runoff."

According to Wood, bio-retention systems reflect findings announced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that indicate low-impact development philosophies are "the most effective in the long and short term in removing pollutants."

"Bio-retention systems are already required commercially," Wood said. "Although they're not required now for the residential homeowner, I believe within 10 years they will be mandated."

Serving as an adjunct to BD-Wood, BD-WoodScapes represents what Wood refers to as "an eco-friendly means of developing out a property."

Without the need for chemicals or irrigation, he said he is able to create sustainable landscapes by incorporating existing attributes, such as rock outcrops, uniquely shaped tree trunks or other topographical features of a property.

"It doesn't take a lot of maintenance," Wood said. "The process doesn't use a lot of heavy machinery. It's based on visual vistas (and) a natural, evolutionary progression. ... It's landscaping by attrition."

Wood invites the homeowner into the process, too.

"They can physically work with me," Wood said. "It's a good opportunity for them to understand how it takes place."

According to Wood, everything he does in both ventures reflects his personal philosophy and belief that his efforts can help people understand the need to respect the land and how it is being treated.

"I find harmony between structure and land — that's the essence of where I'm coming from," he said. "This is a way for (people) to be responsible for what's generated on their own property."