bridges vol. 11, September 2006 / Green Buildings Focus
by Nancy Somerville

ASLA and the Profession of Landscape Architecture
Founded in 1899, the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) represents the landscape architecture profession in the United States. Beginning with 11 original members, ASLA now has more than 16,600 members across the US and in 42 countries worldwide. ASLA promotes careers in landscape architecture and advances the profession through advocacy, education, communication, and fellowship. Core ASLA programs and services include Landscape Architecture magazine; LAND Online, the Society's e-newsletter; the ASLA Annual Meeting and Exhibition; LATIS, the Landscape Architects Technical Information Series; the ASLA Professional Awards Program; Professional Practice Networks, which focus on specialty practice areas; and the ASLA Web site http://www.asla.org.

Landscape architecture encompasses analysis, planning, design, management, and stewardship of the natural and built environments. The profession is expanding, and includes planning and design of large and small scale projects ranging from urban master plans to site plans for commercial properties, to parks and recreation facilities, campus plans, and streetscapes. Even reclamation, storm water management, and security design projects are included. Because of the scope of landscape architectural practice and its impact on public health and safety, the profession is regulated in the US; in 48 of the 50 states, individuals must meet minimum levels of training and pass a rigorous examination before practicing as landscape architects.

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has projected that the demand for landscape architects will increase 18 to 26 percent by 2014. This rapid growth is fueled largely by public concern for the environment and by recognition of the need for more sustainable ways to accommodate a growing population within the natural landscape.

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