Natural Area Management Plan

HCFA

Client: General Services Administration

Location: Woodlawn, Maryland

Services: Environmental Management, Wildlife Enhancement, and Environmental Construction

In the mid-1990s, the Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) moved its headquarters to a new campus in Woodlawn, Maryland. The 850,000 square foot facility is located on a 57.4-acre site and accommodates more than 3,000 employees. Under a contract with the General Services Administration (GSA), KCI provided civil, site, geotechnical, and environmental design as well as surveying, permitting, and construction inspection and management services for the new $125 million campus.

Following construction of the HCFA site in 1996, the HCFA Facilities Manager initiated efforts to protect and enhance the natural areas adjacent to the buildings using GSA funding. In cooperation with the GSA, KCI developed a Natural Area Management and Enhancement Plan for HCFA. Project teams planted a variety of trees, woody shrubs, and perennial wildflowers that enhance the site’s overall wildlife value. KCI staff constructed and installed more than 20 habitat structures for Bluebirds, Tree Swallows, House Wrens, Tufted Tit-mouses, Black-Capped Chickadees, Brown Bats, and butterflies. The species use the shelters for resting, nesting, or hibernation.

By carefully modifying existing habitats and introducing new species to the area, it is possible to control the spread of invasive plants, like bull thistle and reed canary grass, that farming once held in check. The proper management of existing wetlands also benefits the environment by improving water and air quality.

In addition to creating an aesthetically pleasing environment in which to work, GSA also believes the plan will provide educational opportunities for individuals working and visiting the facility. A healthier ecosystem will pique the interest of people eager to learn more about their environment and the wildlife it sustains. KCI staff will assist the process by constructing a series of observation platforms to facilitate bird watching and to provide better access to the natural areas. These platforms will be constructed in the Spring of 1997. er management of existing wetlands also benefits the environment by improving water and air quality.

In addition to creating an aesthetically pleasing environment in which to work, GSA also believes the plan will provide educational opportunities for individuals working and visiting the facility. A healthier ecosystem will pique the interest of people eager to learn more about their environment and the wildlife it sustains. KCI staff will assist the process by constructing a series of observation platforms to facilitate bird watching and to provide better access to the natural areas. These platforms will be constructed in the Spring of 1997.

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