LEED AP with Operations and Maintenance (O+M ) Practice Exam

What is the maximum landscape establishment period beyond which irrigation should not be required for WE Credit Outdoor Water Use Reduction using Option 1?

1. 1 year

2. 2 years

3. 3 years

4. 5 years

The correct answer is: 2 years

The correct answer is based on the concept of landscape establishment, which refers to the period required for newly planted landscapes to develop enough root systems and overall resilience to survive without supplemental irrigation. In the context of the WE Credit Outdoor Water Use Reduction, Option 1 establishes criteria to encourage water efficiency within landscaping practices. A maximum landscape establishment period of 2 years is set to ensure that any irrigation provided is utilized primarily for establishment rather than ongoing maintenance. This guideline helps to promote the adoption of sustainable landscaping strategies that require minimal water usage after the establishment phase. By limiting the irrigation reliance to just 2 years, projects are incentivized to select climate-appropriate plants and utilize practices such as xeriscaping, which effectively reduce the long-term need for water. A longer establishment period would potentially conflict with the goals of sustainability and resource conservation, as it could imply continued dependency on irrigation beyond what is necessary for plant survival and growth. Therefore, the 2-year limit is a balanced approach that supports healthy landscape development while promoting water-efficient practices.