Threat
In many cases, the central quadrangles or greens of these institutional
grounds have been preserved; however, equally important supporting spaces
(such as courtyards or seating spaces); landscape features (such as allees
and hedgerows); and significant views and vistas fall prey to campus parking
and new building construction. Something must be done to reverse this
trend. A strategy is needed so that this aspect of our nation's history
- and the pleasure such well remembered spaces hold for their alumni --
will not be lost.
In recent years, other significant historic designed landscapes such as parks, parkways, gardens and estates have been afforded comprehensive research. Often a Cultural Landscape Report (CLR), a planning and research document, is undertaken to chronicle the history and significance of -- and to direct future planning and treatment for -- many of our nation's important landscapes from Yosemite to Monticello. A CLR is a useful tool to protect a historic landscape from undue wear, alteration or loss. Without one, managers and stewards may make decisions for new work that may result in the demise of important landscape forms, features and materials. Many of our nation's historic college and university landscapes still lack Cultural Landscape Reports. Until these studies have been completed, university and college campus planning committees may continue to unknowingly destroy their own institutional heritage (and a potential source of alumni donations).
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