3. INTRODUCTION
THE VISION
THE PROPERTY
THE REGION
THE HISTORY
SITE INVENTORY & ANALYSIS
LANDSCAPE TYPOLOGY
TERRAIN
ECOLOGY
VEGETATION
ASPECT
WILDLIFE
SITE DESIGN ELEMENTS
ENTRANCE MEADOW
MEADOW PRECEDENTS
HOME SITE
HOME SITE PRECEDENTS
INTERVENTIONS
DISCOVERY & CONTEMPLATION
STEWARDSHIP
ATV TRAILS & AMENITIES
SITE AMENITY PRECEDENTS
SUMMARY
CONTENTS
04
05
06
08
10
13
23
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4. LITTLE MOUNTAIN RANCH, a Highland Retreat
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RIDGE TOP
ROUTE 220
JACKSON RIVER
NORTH
INTRODUCTION
McKee Carson and Field Sport
Concepts, Ltd. are proud to provide the
family with the following inventory,
analysis, planning, and design
explorations for Little Mountain Ranch.
We have evaluated the property in
order to explore certain master plan
configurations regarding the program
vision. This report is a record of
our initial observations, inventories,
analyses, and recommendations. While
it is not a design document, it is our
intent that the initial concepts contained
herein, along with our research and
recommendations, serve to assist you
and your family with a vision and
future planning decisions for your
property.
The master planning process began
with a comprehensive analysis of the
site and its geographic, cultural, and
historical relationship to its context.
An understanding of these natural and
cultural influences, site context, existing
conditions, and programmatic goals
all contributed to the unique landscape
language that was developed for this
master plan.
Through the investigation of maps
and narratives of Highland County,
we chronicled the site’s cultural and
natural history. After numerous on-site
investigations we conducted a detailed
site inventory and analysis, including
site ecology, plant communities, terrain,
and solar aspect. Evaluation of the site’s
opportunities and constraints associated
with the programmatic goals led us
to further explore and reveal the site’s
unique character through a series of
design interventions.
This document is a record of that
process and the resulting design
recommendations we have developed
as a result. It is our sincere hope that
we not only meet your expectations but
exceed them, and that this book serves
to highlight the unlimited potential,
outstanding integrity and overall beauty
found at Little Mountain Ranch from
ridge top to river valley.
44
From ridge top...
5. ...t o
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THE VISION
The vision for Little Mountain Ranch
is to create a multi-functional retreat
for the owner; a place of respite and
recreation designed to meet the needs
of a growing family today, and into the
future. The property is impressive, with
places and features that give it a unique
identity. With very few exceptions, the
land, as a resource, lends itself well to
the envisioned programmatic elements
that will ultimately preserve the value
and ensure the family’s enjoyment
of the property. Its owners are
interested in preserving the property’s
integrity through the establishment
of conservation easements and
enhancement of ecologically sensitive
areas. The introduction of new rural
recreational pursuits, which can be
enjoyed by family, friends and visitors,
combined with ecologically sensitive
ranch operation will create a retreat
with few equals.
Those programs envisioned for the
property include:
CABINS AND CAMPSITES
To accommodate family and friends
TRAILS AND TRAIL DESTINATIONS
For passive and active recreation along
with the general enjoyment of the
properties unique elements.
PONDS
To enhance aesthetic, wildlife, and
agricultural uses.
WILDLIFE HABITAT AND HUSBANDRY
To be established in certain areas of the
property and enhanced in others.
AGRICULTURE AND TIMBER
To develop sustainable and ecologically
sensitive management of natural
resources.
SUBDIVISION OF THE PROPERTY
Solely for estate planning purposes and
for the ultimate creation of home sites
for family members.
As illustrated in this program, a
conservation easement will preserve the
site’s ecology and protect it for future
recreational enjoyment.
55
...to river valley
6. LITTLE MOUNTAIN RANCH, a Highland Retreat
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THE PROPERTY
Little Mountain Ranch is located in
Highland County, Virginia, along U.S.
Route 220. A part of the once larger
Tomahawk Ranch, Little Mountain
Ranch is grand in both appearance
and size, with over 1800 acres in its
boundaries. The ranch sits on the
northwestern slope of Little Mountain,
literally spanning from ridge top to river
valley. Roughly 2500 linear feet of the
property borders Route 220, while the
Jackson River flows approximately 4500
feet through the property at the base of
Little Mountain.
Little Mountain is composed primarily
of sedimentary rock, as is most of the
Ridge and Valley province. The ridge
line of Little Mountain is composed
of particularly hard sandstone, pieces
of which have tumbled down and
collected in various locations across
the mountain. A second outcropping
of sandstone can be seen along the
Jackson River near the river ford
currently used by the family. This
outcropping is part of a distinct layer
of sandstone which runs the length of
the property at a relatively consistent
elevation. In between these two harder
belts of sandstone, shale, limestone
and softer sandstones exist, which are
the hallmarks of karst geography. An
on-site cave and associated sinkhole are
evidence of this karst geography.
Because the property encompasses the
slopes of Little Mountain from ridge
top to river valley, there are a variety
of terrains on which the predominant
oak-hickory-maple forest is found.
Although the property is dominated by
steep rocky slopes, smaller areas of very
gentle grade occur on the mountain side
as well.
In the river valley, fertile grasslands
compose the floodplain of the
Jackson River. These grasslands are
predominantly used for agricultural
purposes such as cattle farms. Only
about 100 acres of the ranch are open
grassland. The Jackson River, a typical
freestone stream, flows in a series of
rills and pools that meander along the
course of least resistance. Due to its
meandering nature, the river sometimes
cuts a new path through the valley floor
either forming an island or an oxbow
of water that is cut off from the main
channel. These will change over time
and are the creation of the dynamic
hydraulic force of the river.
The property is home to a large
community of wildlife species
including mammals, fowl, and many
types of aquatic life. Some are found
across the state and are commonplace
at the Ranch, such as deer, turkey,
and squirrel; while others have more
limited ranges, like the Snowshoe
Hare (Lepus americanus) and Golden
Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), which are
exclusive to the mountains of western
Virginia.
The site not only offers its natural
beauty, but also a host of recreational
opportunities. A network of existing
logging roadbeds offer an excellent
framework for developing trails for
hiking, mountain biking, horseback
riding, and All Terrain Vehicles
(ATV’s) all the while providing access
to unique places throughout the ranch.
The Jackson River hosts some of the
state’s best fishing opportunities as
well as a place to swim, float, or relax
beside the water. The potential for
sporting clays and/or skeet shooting
exists in the open meadows on site.
Other active recreational opportunities
include hunting and camping, while
passive recreational opportunities,
such as picnicking or simply enjoying
the scenery are almost limitless.
RANCH PROPERTY
NW slope of Little Mountain,
1801.67 acres
SANDSTONE RIDGE
KARST CAVE ENTRANCE
JACKSON RIVER MEANDER
7. ...t o
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Little
M
ountain
Rte. 220
Back Creek Mountain
Jackson
River
NORTH
NORTH
8. LITTLE MOUNTAIN RANCH, a Highland Retreat
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THE REGION
Located in the Ridge and Valley
Province of the Appalachian Range,
Highland County encompasses 416
square miles of arguably, the most
beautiful and unique environments
east of the Mississippi River. Per
square mile, the county is one of the
least populated on the east coast. As a
result, the lack of development in the
county helps support a rich diversity
of plant and animal life unique to the
Appalachian Mountains.
The local economy is built around
the wealth of its natural resources
and agricultural businesses abound
here. Approximately 70% of the
county’s 260,000 acres is forested
with the dominant species being oak,
hickory, and maple. This has fueled
the timber industry in the area which
supports several local sawmills and
has contributed significantly to the
Highland County economy. Roughly
70,000 acres falls under the protection
of federal and state agencies, including
the United States Forest Service and
the Virginia Department of Game and
Inland Fisheries.
Highland County is quite high for
Virginia, averaging 2,800 feet in
elevation. As a result, it is almost
exclusively occupied by headwater
streams and rivers. Northwest of
Monterey (the county seat), the county
falls within the Potomac watershed;
all of the waterways here flow into the
South Branch of the Potomac River.
The southern and eastern portions
of the county, including the Jackson,
Bullpasture, and Cowpasture Rivers, fall
within the James River watershed. It
is said that there is a red roofed barn in
Monterey whose roof runoff falls to the
Potomac on one side and to the James
on the other.
The climate of Highland County offers
comfortably cool summers and chilly
winters. The coolest month has been
January with an average temperature of
26.6 degrees Fahrenheit and an average
snowfall of 11 inches. Conversely, the
warmest month is July averaging 68.1
degrees; it also represents the month
with the heaviest rainfall average at 3.95
inches. This is somewhat misleading
however, as no month averages fewer
than 3.20 inches resulting in a total
annual precipitation of 42 inches for the
county.
HIGHLAND COUNTY, VIRGINIA
Bordered to North and West by West Virginia
LITTLE MOUNTAIN RANCH
SE portion of Highland County,
Ridge + Valley Physiographic Region
9. ...t o
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WEST VIRGINIA VIRGINIA
Ridge+Valley
ShenandoahValley
BlueRidge
Piedmont
Monterey
AppalachianPlateau
Appalachian
Mountains
JAMES RIVER
JACKSON RIVER
NORTH
10. LITTLE MOUNTAIN RANCH, a Highland Retreat
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THE HISTORY
The Highland County area was
populated by Native Americans well
before European settlers arrived. As
evidence, the discovery of a 3,000-
year old settlement near McDowell is
located to the east of the ranch in the
Bullpasture Valley. When Europeans
first arrived in the area they found
that the land was not claimed by any
particular tribe, but served as a common
hunting ground for the Shawnee,
Cherokee and Delaware tribes.
At the time Highland County was
teaming with buffalo, bear, deer and
game birds, many of which are found
and seen here today. It is also believed
that the Native Americans practiced
burning to maintain grass-land in the
valleys in order to attract game to the
area.
Although settlement had already begun
in the Bullpasture valley, the William
and Stephen Wilson families were
the first to settle in the Jackson River
valley in 1753. Originally from Dublin,
Ireland, the Wilson Brothers had moved
south to Virginia after living for a time
on Brandywine Creek in Pennsylvania.
Interestingly, their final stop was close
to Little Mountain Ranch where they
settled just south at the confluence of
Bolar Run and Jackson River.
Most early settlers were, like the
Wilsons, of Scotch-Irish or German
heritage. Unlike coastal settlers, they
often chose to abandon the Native
American place names in favor of
more European names. The Native
American name for the Bullpasture and
Cowpasture Rivers was Wallawhatoola,
or “river that bends.” The native name
for the Jackson River is unknown, but
it is currently named for early pioneer
William Jackson, not the Civil War icon
Stonewall Jackson as one might suspect.
Bolar Run, in Big Valley to the east of
Little Mountain Ranch, was originally
known as Wilson’s Mill Run for the
Wilson family. The current name comes
from Colonel John Bolar of Bath whose
wife inherited the land from her father
William Wilson.
CIVIL WAR ERA MAP OF HIGHLAND COUNTY WITH CURRENT
LOCATION OF LITTLE MOUNTAIN RANCH HIGHLIGHTED
SHEEP DRIVE, HIGHLAND COUNTY
CATTLE DRIVE, HIGHLAND COUNTY
Highland County, as it is known
today, was formed in 1847. The
county seat of Monterey was founded
the following year. Originally it was
simply called “Highland,” but the
name was changed in honor of the
Mexican town where General Zachary
Taylor defeated the Mexican Army
during the Spanish-American War.
Historically, agriculture has been the
staple industry for economic gain in
Highland County. Sheep farming and
wool sales along with cattle ranching
were, and still are, the main livestock
industry. The harvesting, processing,
and sale of wood products were and
continue to be a major contributor to
the economy of the county.
NORTH
11. ...t o
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MAP NOT TO SCALE
NORTH
13. SITE INVENTORY & ANALYSIS
A number of inventory and
analysis studies were conducted
pertaining to the physical
elements of the ranch property.
These studies, and the resulting
findings, assisted the team in
making solid, justified, and
appropriate planning and design
decisions for the project.
LANDSCAPE TYPOLOGY
TERRAIN
ECOLOGY
VEGETATION
ASPECT
WILDLIFE
14
15
16
18
19
20
Field visits and on-site reconnaissance
was necessary to investigate design
opportunities and constraints and
familiarize the team with the property.
Assessment of wildlife habitat and
corridors, terrain, solar aspect,
vegetation, scenic and historic values,
flood plain and surface drainage,
and land uses were all part of the site
investigation. The following analysis
describes the implications and
characteristic of each physical element.
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NORTH
The property covers a wide range of
elevation change, with approximately
1,390 feet of topographic change from
the highest point atop Little Mountain
at 3,493 feet, to the lowest point in the
Jackson River valley at 2,103 feet. There
are three distinct landscape typologies:
the flat riverine floodplain, the moderate
to steep transitional slopes, and the
rocky, steep ridge top.
RIVERINE FLOODPLAIN
Roughly 100 of the ranch’s 1,800
acres are located in the flood plain of
the Jackson River. This zone is level
with slopes ranging from 0-3% and is
characterized by silt and sandy loam
soils. The top of the seasonal high water
table is at 22 inches. Because of its
low banks, typically less than 5 feet in
height, this zone is prone to occasional
flooding. Given its rich organic content
the floodplain is ideal for farming and
wildlife husbandry practices.
TRANSITION SLOPE
The majority of the ranch’s acreage lies
in the moderate to steep transitional
slopes that span the mountain side
between the riverine floodplain and
ridge top typologies. This is where
most of the topographical variance of
the property is found, as some 1,100’
of elevation is gained. The geology
of Little Mountain is dominated by
two sandstone ridges, one atop the
mountain and one that forms the
uphill edge of the floodplain. These
two outcrops define the edges of the
transitional zone. The lower sandstone
formation provides a bench along the
mountain side where the topography
becomes more moderate (between
2,300’ to 2,500’ in elevation) allowing for
several potential building sites and trail
locations. The soil in this zone tends to
be shallow and well drained with a high
cobble and stone content.
RIDGE TOP
The ridge top is characterized by
its rocky, undulating topography
ranging from 200- 300’ from its highest
point (3,493’) along the ridge top to
the lowest elevation of 3,185’. This
typology is comprised of shallow, well
drained soil that occasionally presents
sandstone rock outcroppings. While
not hospitable to building, the ridge
top offers excellent views to both the
Bullpasture and Jackson River valleys.
LANDSCAPE TYPOLOGY
2200’ and lower
2201’ - 2300’
2301’ - 2400’
2401’ - 2500’
2501’ - 2600’
2601’ - 2700’
2701’ - 2800’
2801’ - 2900’
2901’ - 3000’
3001’ - 3100’
3101’ - 3200’
3201’ - 3300’
3301’ - 3400’
3401’ - 3500’
RIDGETOP ROCK OUTCROP
TRANSITION SLOPE
15. ...t o
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TERRAIN
Slopes on site were calculated and
grouped into six categories according
to development guidelines for trails,
roadways, and building sites. As shown
on the adjacent map, a majority of the
property contains slopes of 25% or
greater which directly correlates with
the transition zone between the riverine
floodplain and the ridge top. There is a
substantial amount of acreage that falls
in the 15-25% slope range and is suitable
for building and trail development.
In terms of analyzing the property for
programmatic elements, slope ranges
under 25% are the most conducive for
home sites and ATV trails. However,
some of the most interesting places
on site are the steep, rocky ridges and
ravines, and thus are given special
consideration in the design phases.
0-5% - Relatively flat, mostly found
in the flood plain meadows.
10-15% - More difficult ATV
terrain, Dept. of Transportation
allows 14% max for roads.
15-20% - Too steep for ATVs to
ascend straight uphill, trails should
traverse slope.
20-25% - Maximum slope
recommended for buildings.
25+% - Very steep. Access between
roadways and building pads
difficult.
5-10% - Slightly steeper, but
easily walkable. Similar to slope of
handicap ramps.
RIVERINE FLOOD PLAIN
NORTH
16. LITTLE MOUNTAIN RANCH, a Highland Retreat
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Ecology is the scientific study of the
interactions of organisms with their
environment and with each other.
An ecosystem is a combination of
relationships among living resources,
habitats and residents of a region; it can
be a large geographic region, like the
Appalachian mountains, or something
as small as a puddle. An ecological
community is an assemblage of these
species interacting in a specific habitat.
We have categorized Little Mountain
Ranch into three main ecological
communities: forest, riparian edge,
and meadow. While they can be seen
as separate, the function of each is
inherently connected to the others and
to the larger ecosystems in which they
are situated.
FOREST
Forests are areas with a high density
of trees. They take in large amounts
of carbon dioxide and are the best
landscape for ensuring good water
quality, preventing soil erosion and
providing important habitat for a wide
range of animals. It is claimed that
one teaspoon of healthy forest soil may
contain more than 10,000 organisms,
which many of the plants, such as
mountain laurel, rely on to survive.
Forests can be categorized into four
main layers: canopy, subcanopy,
understory, and groundplane (herb
layer). Each layer is specifically
adapted for the level of shade and
moisture that it receives, and the
presence of all layers is important to the
health of the forest and its inhabitants.
The forest community of Little
Mountain Ranch is termed an oak-
hickory or oak-hickory-maple
complex, as they are the dominant tree
species. At one time it was an oak-
chestnut forest, but a blight brought
in with the Chinese chestnut in the
1940s and 50s killed off the American
chestnut, radically altering the forest
landscape. Prior to their decimation, it
is estimated that one in every four trees
in the Appalachian mountains was an
American chestnut. What was once a
100-foot tall canopy tree is now a small
sapling that generally succumbs to the
blight within a few years, and there
are numerous examples all over the
property.
RIPARIAN EDGE
A riparian edge is the area directly
adjacent to a river or stream. Because
this area is prone to flooding, the
plants found here are well adapted to
changing conditions. Healthy riparian
edges are some of the most diverse
ecosystems in nature supporting more
species of plants and animals than
either forest or meadow. These edges
also provide critical habitat for fish,
insects, reptiles, amphibians, small
mammals and birds; thereby also
ECOLOGY
supporting the animals that prey on
them. Acting as wildlife “highways”
for migratory species, riparian corridors
and edges help connect isolated forest
stands.
Healthy riparian edges assist in
preventing stream bank erosion and
deterioration of water quality. Shaded
river channels help to improve aquatic
habitat and contribute plant matter
to the base of the aquatic food web.
Riparian edges also reduce flood
damage to surrounding land and filter
pollutants from runoff before it reaches
the stream.
The state of Virginia offers tax credits
and assistance programs for the
establishment and maintenance of this
valuable territory.
MEADOW
Meadows are characterized by plants
such as grasses, forbs (herbaceous plants
and wildflowers) and small shrubs.
They provide habitat for deer, turkey,
rabbit, quail, mice, butterflies and a
host of insects as well as forage areas
for livestock. Predators such as hawks,
owls, and fox depend on small meadow
animals for most of their food. Meadow
diversity is greatly affected by the types
of plants that grow in them and the
frequency of mowing or burning, since
cover and food is limited in freshly
mown or burned areas.
There are two main types of grasses
typically found in a meadow: cool
season grasses and warm season
grasses. As the names imply, cool
season grasses do most of their growing
when the weather is cooler in the spring
and fall, while warm season grasses
are adapted to thrive in the heat of the
summer.
Native warm season grasses are taller
and grow in clumps. This is beneficial
for small animals that can move freely
and safely at ground level while
remaining sheltered from above. Warm
season grasses typically keep their form
in the winter, providing year-round
visual interest and cover for animals.
Because they do not crowd out other
plants, warm season meadows are
generally more diverse providing more
food and habitat for a wider variety of
animals.
Cool season grasses can be bunch
grasses, but most are non-native, sod-
forming grasses. Tall fescue is the
most commonly found meadow grass
because it is easy to maintain and good
pasturage for livestock. However,
fescues are undesirable in a meadow
because they start growing long
before other grasses and form a dense
mat which keeps other plants from
germinating, resulting in a monoculture
that limits food and habitat for wildlife.
THE JACKSON RIVER HAS LOST RIPARIAN EDGE TO
PASTURE LAND
ERODED RIPARIAN EDGE
17. ...t o
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LAYERED FOREST AT LITTLE MOUNTAIN RANCH
MEADOW WETLAND DURING COOL SEASON (MARCH) SAME WETLAND DURING WARM SEASON (JUNE) SHOWING
DIVERSITY OF WARM SEASON PLANTS
18. LITTLE MOUNTAIN RANCH, a Highland Retreat
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The vegetative community on Little
Mountain Ranch is considered part
of the Central Appalachian Northern
Hardwood Forests. These mixed
hardwood forests are prevalent at high
elevations and can be further broken
down into three primary communities:
terrestrial, alluvial, and riverine. The
terrestrial community occupies the
entire mountain and is comprised of
the oak-hickory-maple complex, while
the alluvial and riverine communities
include species located in the flood plain
and Jackson River itself.
TERRESTRIAL COMMUNITY
The terrestrial community includes
all upland (non-wetland) habitats and
occurs primarily on the mountainside
of Little Mountain Ranch. The canopy
in this community includes species
such as: sugar maple (Acer saccharum),
red maple (Acer rubrum), sweet birch
(Betula lenta), and northern red oak
(Quercus rubra), while American beech
(Fagus gradifolia), and eastern hemlock
(Tsuga Canadensis) are less frequent
co-dominants. The sub-canopy is
comprised of species such as black
cherry (Prunus serotina), striped maple
(Acer pensylvanicum), white pine (Pinus
strobes) and a host of other companions.
The understory and ground plane
include a matrix of species ranging from
shrubs such as mountain laurel (Kalmia
latifolia), and rhododendron to herb
layers of haysented fern (Dennstaedita
punctilobula), and whorled aster (Aster
acuminatus).
The importance of red maple, sweet
birch, northern red oak, and black
cherry in contemporary Virginia
exemplifies this community and
reflects secondary succession
following catastrophic logging and
fire disturbance in the early part of the
twentieth century.
ALLUVIAL COMMUNITY
Species in this community occupy
temporarily flooded habitats including
the Jackson River floodplain.
Characteristic trees include sycamore
(Platanus occidentalis), boxelder (Acer
negundo), river birch (Betula nigra), black
walnut (Juglans nigra), and black willow
(Salix nigra). Shrubs include spicebush
(Lindera benzoin), alder (Alnus serrulata),
and witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana).
VEGETATION
CANOPY
SUB - CANOPY
UNDERSTORY
GROUNDPLANE
FOREST LAYERS
Herbaceous composition varies
greatly but include species such
as joe-pye weed (Eupatorium
fistulosum), jack-in-the-pulpit
(Arisaema triphylum), and sensitive
fern (Onoclea sensibilis). More
frequently flooded areas along
the stream channels support
some wetland species such as
twisted sedge (Carex torta), hooked
buttercup (Ranunculus recurvatus),
and marsh blue violet (Viola
cucullata).
RIVERINE COMMUNITY
The floating and submergent
herbaceous vegetation of this
community inhabits the Jackson
River itself. Characteristic
species include waterweeds
(Elodea candensis), and horn-
leaf riverweed (Podostemum
ceratophyllum) that is often rooted
on shallow submerged boulders
and rock outcrops.
19. ...t o
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ALLUVIAL / RIVERINE
CANOPY
SUBCANOPY
UNDERSTORY
Eastern sycamore | Platanus occidentalis
Eastern hemlock | Tsuga canadensis
Green ash | Fraxinus pennsylvanica
American elm – Ulmus Americana
Red maple | Acer rubrum
Tulip poplar | Liriodendron tulipifera
Black willow | Salix nigra
Box-elder | Acer negudo
River birch | Betula nigra
Silky dogwood | Cornus amonum
American hornbeam | Carpinus caroliniana
Alder | Alnus serrulata
Witch hazel | Hamamelis virginiana
Multiflora rose | Rosa multiflora (invasive)
TERRESTRIAL
CANOPY
White oak | Quercus alba
Northern red oak | Quercus rubra
Red maple | Acer rubrum
Sugar maple | Acer saccarum
Sweet birch | Betula lenta
Mockernut hickory | Carya tomentosa
Shagbark hickory | Carya ovata
Eastern hemlock | Tsuga canadensis
American beech | Fagus grandifolia
SUBCANOPY
White pine | Pinus strobus
Virginia pine | Pinus virginiana
Sassafras | Sassafras albidum
American chesnut | Castanea dentata
Black cherry | Prunus serotina
GROUNDPLANE
Lady fern | Athyrium felix-femina
Striped wintergreen | Chimaphilia maculate
Evergreen wood-fern | Dryopteris intermedia
Sweet white-viola | Viola blanda
Whorled aster | Aster acuminatus
Tree clubmoss | Lycopodium dendroideum
Stiff clubmoss | Lycopodium annotinum
Eastern twisted stalk | Streptopus lanceolatus
Common witch-hazel | Hamamelis virginiana
Catawaba rhododendron |
Rhododendron catawbiense
Mountain laurel | Kalmia latifolia
Flowering dogwood | Cornus florida
Eastern red bud | Cercis canadensis
Serviceberry | Amelanchier canadensis
Blackberry | Prunus sp.
Lowbush blueberry | Vaccinium angustifolium
UNDERSTORY
GROUNDPLANE
Joe-pye weed | Eupatorium fistulosum
Bugleweed | Lycopus sp.
Sensitive fern | Onoclea sensibilis
Jack-in-the-pulpit |Arisaema triphylum
Golden ragwort | Packera aurea
Sedges | Carex sp.
Soft rush | Juncus effusus
Skunk cabbage | Symplocarpus foetidus
NORTHERN RED OAK
AMERICAN CHESTNUT
MOUNTAIN LAUREL
LADY FERN
EASTERN HEMLOCK
BLACK WILLOW
MULTIFLORA ROSE
SOFT RUSH
20. LITTLE MOUNTAIN RANCH, a Highland Retreat
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ASPECT
Aspect refers to the direction in which a
slope is oriented in relation to the solar
position. This determines vegetative
plant growth, the plant species, and
microclimatic conditions throughout
the day and year. This positioning also
helps us understand the most useful
and valuable places to locate buildings.
The main ridge of Little Mountain
runs in a northeast to southwest
direction with smaller ridges projecting
perpendicularly from the main ridge.
These smaller ridges have primarily
northern and southern aspects.
Solar analyses, according to the slope
aspect, were developed for the property
on three different days (corresponding
to winter and summer solstice, and
spring/fall equinox), and at three
different times of day. It is clear that
the northern slopes of the smaller ridges
receive much less sunlight throughout
the year in comparison to the southern
slopes.
JUNE 21 (summer solstice)
9 a.m. | 1 p.m. | 6 p.m.
MARCH/SEPT. 21 (spring/fall equinox)
9 a.m. | 1 p.m. | 6 p.m.
DECEMBER 21 (winter solstice)
9 a.m. | 1 p.m. | 6 p.m
M
O
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1p
9a
June 21
March 21 /
December 21
Sept. 21
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WILDLIFE
Highland County is home to a wide
array of wildlife. Supporting over
500 species, the area includes an
incredible variety of both game and
non-game species. The Virginia
Department of Game and Inland
Fisheries and the Federal Government
have listed 49 of these species worthy
of special conservation efforts. A
small percentage of those are listed on
either the state or federal government
endangered species list. A few
examples of these rare species include
the Virginia big eared bat (Corynorhinus
townsendii virginianus); the Virginia
northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys
sabrinus fuscus) and the Snowshoe
Hare (Lepus americanus). Interestingly,
sightings of the squirrel and hare have
actually been limited statewide to the
far northwestern corner of Highland
County. That said, these species
represent only a small percentage of the
total species found in Highland, most
of which are abundant in number.
Some of the species include:
BIG GAME SPECIES
Whitetail Deer | Odocoileus virginianus
Wild Turkey | Meleagris gallopavo
Black Bear | Ursus americanus
SMALL GAME SPECIES
Ruffed Grouse | Bonasa umbellus
Waterfowl | Anatidae family
Dove | Columbidae family
Quail | Galliformes order
Eastern Cottontail Rabbit |
Sylvilagus floridanus
Gray, Fox, and Ground Squirrel |
Sciuridae family
AQUATIC SPECIES
Rainbow Trout | Oncorhynchus mykiss
Brown Trout | Salmo trutta
Smallmouth Bass | Micropterus dolomieu
Rock Bass | Ambloplites rupestris
RARE SPECIES
Snowshoe Hare | Lepus americanus
Golden Eagle | Aquila chrysaetos
Virginia Northern Flying Squirrel |
Glaucomys sabrinus
Bald Eagle | Haliaeetus leucocephalus
23. SITE DESIGN ELEMENTS
The richness of Little Mountain Ranch
is representative of the distinct, multi-
layered vernacular of Highland County.
The following design recommendations
are intended to recognize and
celebrate this unique diversity. We
feel that designing in an ecologically
conscientious manner that recognizes
the landscape as a cohesive whole is
essential to the success of the ranch
as a multi-faceted family retreat. The
following recommended site elements
are chosen to reflect the family’s
envisioned program while weaving in
the preservation and enhancement of
the site’s ecology.
In generating the content for this
section, we recognize that the treatments
being proposed for each element fall
into one of three categories:
INTERVENTIONS: locations where we
propose designed elements to improve
the use, function, and aesthetics of a
place while highlighting its ecological
uniqueness and value.
DISCOVERIES: places that are in need of
minor improvement that also provide
an opportunity for exploration.
STEWARDSHIP: places where changes
in the long-term management of the
site help enhance, restore, and sustain
the natural heritage, biodiversity, and
beauty of natural communities.
The common thread among these
categories is the effort to design each
element with an eye towards the
existing character of the site. The
sandstone ridge top, the oak- hickory-
maple forest complex, the natural
views, and the essential importance and
pristine quality of water throughout
the site all offer the essential elements
for design. The character of a place
is conveyed through existence and
abundance of these elements on site
and became the catalyst for further
design exploration and inspiration. This
allowed us to connect the intervention,
discovery, and stewardship elements to
each other and to the property through
a material palette driven in large part by
the site itself.
Overall, the goal of this section is to help
the family visualize potential outcomes
for creating a modern, ecologically
sound, place specific, and graciously
appointed family retreat to be treasured
and enjoyed for generations.
INTERVENTION
ENTRANCE MEADOW
MEADOW PRECEDENTS
HOME SITE
HOME SITE PRECEDENTS
CABIN & CAMP SITES
OLD HOMESTEADS
DISCOVERY & CONTEMPLATION
OVERLOOKS
SPRING CREEK CAVE
STEWARDSHIP
WILDLIFE PONDS & SPRINGS
CLEAR CUT EDGE & POWERLINE EASEMENT
ATV TRAILS & AMENITIES
SITE AMENITY PRECEDENTS
24
28
30
32
36
38
40
41
42
43
44
46
23
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INTERVENTION
FISHING REST STATION
Assuming it would take about half a day to fish up-stream from the house site
to the north edge of the entrance meadow, a place to get out of the river and
have lunch makes the experience much more enjoyable.
RIPARIAN BUFFERS - THE STREAMS
The degraded buffers could be improved and widened with flowering plants for
the summer and more structured species to improve the winter aspect.
THE BARN
Additional trees create a screen so that the barn is more incorporated into the
meadow and less visible upon entrance to the property.
NATIVE GRASSES
The existing fescue pasture grass could be replaced, in whole or in part, with
native warm season grasses to provde more color and texture to the meadow as
well as improve the habitat.
STRUCTURED PLANTING
Shrubs and trees create a hide-and-reveal effect that focus views and create a
rythm to the entrance experience.
RIPARIAN BUFFERS - THE RIVER
Native tree and shrub plantings along the river improve the trout habitat,
repair the bank erosion, and frame the meadow.
ENTRANCE MEADOW
The journey through Little Mountain
Ranch begins dramatically. A
picturesque floodplain meadow
represents one of the most unique
and biologically diverse areas on the
entire property. This space is treated
with a certain degree of reverence;
interweaving human use and
occupation with the dynamic nature of
the site’s ecology.
Approaching the meadow from Rt.
220 you pass through the threshold
of the existing stone entrance walls
signaling the arrival to Little Mountain
Ranch. Beyond this threshold you
enter the meadow where native
warm season grasses and wildflowers
fluctuate in concert with the changing
light, weather, and seasonal cycles,
which transform the floodplain into
a didactic, biologically rich gateway
to the property. A realigned entrance
drive gracefully weaves through the
meadow while taking advantage of
the high points of the floodplain and
capturing views both into the site and
to the valley beyond. Enhancement of
the existing stream in the floodplain
helps emphasize the ecological richness
of the ranch while providing additional
layers of seasonal interest. The creation
of small pools along the stream recalls
the natural history of beaver occupation
in the valley while serving as a place for
recreation and stormwater collection.
Weir walls, built with local stone, act as
small dams for the creation of the pools
and further extend into the landscape
becoming sculptural elements that
celebrate the ranch’s natural materials.
The selective placement of native
trees and shrubs helps to frame views,
stabilize the degraded stream and
river banks, and enhances the site’s
ecological diversity and beauty.
SPRING CHANNEL IMPOUNDMENT
The current channel could be impounded with a series of small weirs to create
drop pools.
ROAD ALIGNMENT
More graceful curves follow the high points in the meadow, and orient the
entrance towards the beautiful views of the site and down the valley.
PICNIC SHELTER
The existing Sycamore grove can be augmented with wildflowers or more trees
to make an idyllic and private picnic setting that is screened from the road.
BRIDGE ACROSS THE RIVER
A bridge across the river ensures access year round and protects the river
bottom from erosion.
ENTRANCE
Existing stone walls to remain and enhanced by a new gate and plantings
STREAM CROSSING
Culverts and small bridges will be needed to cross streams and impoundments.
They should reflect the entrance columns in the use of stone as the primary
material.
25. ...t o
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ROUTE220
JACKSONRIVER
TO HOME SITE AND
TRAILS
NORTH
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ENTRANCE MEADOW ALTERNATIVE
INTERVENTION
ENTRANCE ALLEE
Following the graceful curves of the new road alignment, an allee of trees
gives the entrance drive and sequence through the meadow a more formal and
enclosed feel.
RIPARIAN BUFFERS - THE STREAMS
Vegetative buffers along the streams and Jackson River are densely planted
with native plants that give the buffers texture, color, and seasonal interest
while also improving wildlife habitats.
MEADOW STRUCTURING
The edges and composition of the meadow native plant palette can be
structured so as to reveal views, buffer water bodies, and add seasonal color,
interest, and texture.
27. ...t o
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ROUTE220
JACKSONRIVER
TO HOME SITE AND
TRAILS
NORTH
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INTERVENTION
MEADOWN PRECEDENTS
The individual components of the
meadow design offer a great deal of
opportunity for customizing the entry
experience. It is in these details that
an overall feel for the space is created.
The details are a mixture of plantings
and materials that seek to augment
and improve the existing palette found
in the meadow. This page illustrates
examples of design elements and
materials.
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f
FENCE TYPES
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WEIR WALLS
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MEADOWS
sc STREAM CROSSING
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ENTRANCE GATES
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INTERVENTION
HOME SITE
Linking the meadow to the home
site is a bridge that spans the Jackson
River. Departing the bridge, the entry
drive penetrates the forest evoking a
realm of privacy and seclusion. As
you approache the home, the drive
enters an orchard that recalls the
historic settlement patterns of early
homesteaders. Leaving the orchard, the
drive terminates at an entrance court
defined by a series of formal plantings
of native species. These plantings begin
to define the outdoor spaces around
the home and signal the transition
from nature to human inhabitance.
This progression of spaces to the
front door is a conscious reduction
of scale allowing the home to act as
the mediator between the floodplain
meadow and the oak-hickory-maple
forest of Little Mountain.
The home is oriented along a ridge
taking advantage of the flattest
topography, opening the home
to the most expansive views, and
maximizing its passive solar aspect.
This orientation is further emphasized
by extending garden spaces along
the ridge which provides an elevated
promenade along this topographic
condition. Terrace retaining walls
form the edge between outdoor living
space and meadow. The views here
are expansive from the floodplain
meadow to the Jackson River, and the
surrounding Allegheny Mountains.
The design of the home site provides
the type of outdoor rooms that expand
the living space of the home into the
landscape and provide, in concert with
the home, a retreat unlike any other.
ROAD ALIGNMENT
Utilizing the existing road bed, the entry drive navigates the oak-hickory-maple forest and
orchard, which together connect the entrance meadow with the home site.
HOME ORIENTATION
The home is sited along a ridge that squares it and the auxillary structures to the predomi-
nant views of the valley and surrounding mountain rainges. Gardens, terraces, decks, and
pavilions can all contribute to outdoor spaces that capture the grandeur of the valley views.
ORCHARD
As part of the entry sequence, the orchard signals the arrival to the home site while recalling
historical settlement patterns.
SPRING IMPOUNDMENT
Spring-fed impoundment captures stream water in the drainage during high water periods
while also providing a place for rest and reflection.
NATIVE GRASSES
Native warm season grasses provide color and texture to the meadow and improve wildlife
habitat.
STRUCTURED PLANTING
Plantings of native trees and shrubs frame views of the valley, form outdoor rooms, and
protect the home from chilling winter winds.
RIPARIAN BUFFER - RIVER
Native tree and shrub plantings along the river improve the trout habitat, repair the bank
erosion, and frame the meadow.
31. ...t o
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NORTH
JACKSON
RIVER
TO MEADOW ENTRANCE
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INTERVENTION
HOME SITE PRECEDENTS
As with the meadow, individual
components and materials of the
home site design offer a great deal
of opportunity for tailoring your
living experience. There is a unique
opportunity to tie these materials into
the larger landscape that helps identify
the home as your personal mountain
retreat. This page illustrates examples
of these design elements and materials.
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MEADOWS
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SPRING IMPOUNDMENT
EXISTING VIEW
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ORCHARD
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PRIVATE GARDENS
ev
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INTERVENTION
HOME SITE PRECEDENTS
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PAVING
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PAVED TERRACE
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GRASS TERRACE
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CABIN OR CAMP SITES:
The following sites have been selected
based on a certain set of criteria: they
require minimal clearing to begin
construction; they take advantage of
distant views; they are located at the
convergence of several habitats; and
they are relatively accessible. These
places may initially serve as camp sites
providing the opportunity to experience
them yearly and seasonally. Favorites
may arise as each place becomes more
familiar to the family. Once these
favorite spots are identified, the family
may then move towards developing
the camp sites into cabins. This, too,
could be a gradual process by building
more elaborate outdoor fireplaces or
shelters before finally constructing them
into cabins. Through this process, a
hierarchy of sites can be established
providing a range of experiences from
gracious private cabins to rustic outdoor
experiences. Whatever the case, these
elements, in keeping with the design
language generated thus far, should
take advantage of existing on-site
materials and the ecological context.
INTERVENTION
FORESTED CABIN OR CAMPSITEA FOREST CLEARING CABIN OR CAMPSITE
MEADOW EDGE CABIN OR CAMPSITE
37. ...t o
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COUNCIL RING EXAMPLE
FIREPLACE EXAMPLE FIRE PIT DETIAL EXAMPLE
STONE EDGE
STEEL PIPE
STONE BASE
1’-6”
SECTION VIEW
3’-6”
PLAN VIEW
GRILL NOTCH
CAMPFIRE OVERLOOK ON MOUNTAIN TOP FIRE RING EXAMPLE
LOG BENCH DETAIL EXAMPLE
SECTION VIEW
PLAN VIEW
38. LITTLE MOUNTAIN RANCH, a Highland Retreat
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DETAIL OF CHIMNEY CONSTRUCTION
FOUNDATION STONES ON APPLE TREE AXIS
OLD HOMESTEADS:
The old homesteads are a particularly
intriguing piece of the property’s
history. The use of these elements as
picnic, camping, or cabin sites creates
a unique location/destination on the
ranch. Unfortunately, one of the relics
found itself in the way of the power
line and is therefore within the utility
easement. However, with its proximity
to Sinking Creek Cave it still provides
an excellent place for a picnic/camping
site.
Clearing away vines and weeds from
the homesteads help to further identify
these spaces as a symbolic part of the
property’s history. Proper care and
maintenance of the remnants is vital
to their longevity. It also may be of
interest to seek out an archaeologist
to analyze the homesteads and make
recommendations for their preservation.
This will also provide a better
understanding of the property’s history.
INTERVENTION
CHIMNEY RUIN IN POWERLINE CUT
CHIMNEY RUIN AT MEADOW HOMESITE
39. ...t o
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VIEW OF CHIMNEY RUIN AT OLD HOMESTEAD IN MEADOW CLEARING WITH FIRE PIT
CHIMNEY AND ORCHARD REMNANTS
CAMPFIRE SEATING EXAMPLE
FOREST AND MEADOW EDGE EXAMPLE EXAMPLE OF MEADOW GRASSES IN OPEN FOREST
40. LITTLE MOUNTAIN RANCH, a Highland Retreat
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DISCOVERY & CONTEMPLATION
VIEW OVERLOOKS:
There are numerous places on the
property that fall under this category,
and with some selective clearing
the views from these points can be
magnificent. These opportunities exist
throughout the property, but certain
locations merit extra attention. Of
particular interest is the switchback
located near the top of the northernmost
black trail. A seat wall and picnic area
could be included in this location so
that the family can enjoy this view at a
leisurely pace.
It is important to note that selective
clearing is a process that must be
approached with care. It is not only
important to remove trees which block
views, but, just as important, is to leave
trees which frame views. This principle
applies throughout the property and
should be employed at the home site
and the entrance meadow, as framing
and revealing views is essential in both.
Any species selectively taken can be
used as site furniture, site steps, or for
trail erosion control measures.
VIEW FROM HIGHEST POINT ON PROPERTY
SECTION SHOWING SELECTIVE CLEARING ZONE AND OVERLOOK
ZONE OF SELECTIVE CLEARING
OVERLOOK WALL AND PLATFORM
(3,493’)
41. ...t o
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SINKING CREEK CAVE
Sinking Creek Cave is arguably one of
the most unique and exciting elements
found on the property. This cave is
a form of karst topography which is
created when limestone is dissolved
from constant interactions with
underground water. The water carves
channels and caves that are susceptible
to collapse from the surface. When
enough limestone is eroded from
underground, a sinkhole develops, such
as the entrance to this cave. This effect
of water on limestone is clearly visible
near the mouth of the cave.
Descending the sinkhole the air
becomes inherently moist and cool.
This microclimate has lead to the
growth of a unique collection of plant
species such as: Jack-in-the-Pulpit,
Arisaema triphylum, a unique spring
wildflower; American hornbeam,
Carpinus caroliniana, that is identifiable
by its smooth, twisted trunk; and a host
of ferns, mosses, and lichens.
Beyond this entrance we can only
imagine the network of channels and
caverns that exist and are ripe for
exploration. The cave itself should be
explored and mapped by a professional,
but could potentially offer the family
a recreational opportunity like
spelunking. Overall this is a unique
location and will offer, even on the
hottest day, a fine place to cool down.
CAVE ENTRACE
DISAPPEARING SPRING JACK IN THE PULPIT |
ARISAEMA TRIPHYLUM
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STEWARDSHIP
POWERLINE CUT + CLEAR CUT EDGE:
FOREST AND MEADOW STEWARDSHIP
These disturbed areas of the property
should not necessarily be viewed with
disdain, as they offer many unique
lessons and opportunities that are not
found elsewhere on the property. The
power lines, towers, and associated
easement are a permanent fixture on
the property but offer some of the finest
views to the Jackson River Valley. It
also provides a rare opportunity for
native warm season grasses to grow
representing a meadow habitat. These
rapidly vanishing landscapes offer
excellent habitat for ground nesting
game birds such as the Bobwhite
Quail, (Colinus virginanus), and Ruffled
Grouse, (Bonasa umbellus). Quail
Unlimited, a conservation organization
dedicated to quail recovery, recognizes
the potential that utility easements offer
for meadow species. They have worked
with the power companies to generate
a program through which landowners
can create warm season meadows in
easements on their properties. The
family may want to consider taking
advantage of this opportunity to
increase the diversity of habitat on the
property. This could supplement any
meadow restoration work performed in
the floodplain of the property.
The second area of disturbance is the
clear cut which borders the northern
boundary of the property. Although the
family has no control over this section,
the visual impact of the clear cut is hard
to ignore. There is an opportunity here
not only to see the devastating effects
of clear cutting, but also to view and
learn, over time, the restorative effects
of nature and the cyclical process of
succession.
FOREST STEWARDSHIP
Proper forest management can provide
many long-term benefits to the ranch
by producing yields of timber for profit
and attracting an abundance of wildlife.
Specifically, sustainable forestry
integrates the regeneration, growing,
nurturing, and harvesting of trees for
useful products while conserving soil,
air, and water quality, wildlife and
fish habitat, and landscape aesthetic
quality. Consulting with the Virginia
Department of Forestry, a local forester,
or a forest ecologist would be essential
and beneficial in implementing this
stewardship objective.
The DOF offers financial assistance
to landowners willing to practice
sustainable forestry management.
Below is a link to their website:
http://www.dof.virginia.gov/info/index-
finance-assist.shtml
WARM SEASON GRASSES AND
VALLEY VIEW FROM POWERLINE
EASEMENT
CLEAR CUT BORDERING PROPERTY
The American Chestnut Foundation
helps to restore the American chestnut
to its native woodlands.
Below is a link to their website:
http://acf.org/
MEADOW STEWARDSHIP
Burning and mowing your meadow
on a regular basis is a necessity for
success. Burning and mowing are
usually conducted in mid-spring.
Burning removes the accumulated
plant litter from the previous year’s
growth and exposes the soil surface to
the warming rays of the sun. Burning
encourages earlier soil warming,
and typically increases growth,
flowering, and seed production of the
native flowers and grasses. A mid-
spring fire also sets back undesirable
“cool season” weeds. Timing of the
burning is critical, and mid-spring is
recommended over early spring.
In the event that burning your
meadow is not an option, mowing can
be substituted. Mowing should also
be done in mid-spring and raking off
the mowed material to expose the soil
surface is recommended. Do not mow
or burn after new plant growth has
reached one foot or taller, as this could
damage some of your desirable plants.
Burning can usually be instituted at
the beginning of the third growing
season.
Rotational burning of one-half or
one-third of your meadow on an
annual basis generally recommended.
Once your prairie has become well
established, it will return year
after year with just a minimum of
maintenance.
BOBWHITE QUAIL | COLINUS VIRGINIANUS
PRESCRIBED BURN CONTROLLED MEADOW BURN
NATIVE WILDFLOWER MEADOW FOLLOWING PRESCRIBED BURN
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SPRING FED POND EASTERN VERNAL POOL
RIVERS, PONDS, AND SPRINGS:
RIPARIAN BUFFER STEWARDSHIP
The Jackson River, as mentioned in
previous sections, is the main body of
water on the ranch. We also identified
three small ponds on the property; one
of which is an Eastern vernal pool, a
depression that is filled by rainwater,
while the other two are spring-fed. The
ponds are limited in size due to their
topography and well drained soils,
making enlarging them potentially
difficult. However, slight enlargement
coupled with select planting can make
them a spectacular place to view
wildlife and look for tracks. The springs
at these locations could also serve as
watering stations along the ATV trails
and for the campsites.
RIPARIAN BUFFER STEWARDSHIP
Improving the riparian buffers along the
Jackson River and its floodplain streams
help prevent erosion improve water
quality. This will have a more specific
impact on the improvement of the
trout population in the Jackson River.
Typically, planting a 100 foot wide strip
of forest and/or native grasses can
reduce sediment by 97 percent, nitrogen
by 80 percent, and phosphorus by 77
percent. The state offers cost-share
incentives to aide in the restoration and
implementation of these buffers.
Below is a link to their website:
http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/sw//crep.htm
Other websites of interest:
http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/dnh/
karsthome1.htm
http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/dnh/steward.
htm
JACKSON RIVER
RIPARIAN BUFFER ZONE
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There are a myriad of logging roads
that criss-cross the property making
ideal ATV trails. Several trails have
a well compacted sub-base and are
clearly identifiable, while others are
more obscure and rough in nature.
This variation allows for a wide range
of experiences and skill as they lead
through old meadows, up rocky
slopes down bucolic hollows, past
small springs, wildlife ponds, and old
homesteads.
We suggest:
- Trails should stay out of easily
damaged natural areas such as
meadows, wetlands and streams.
- When necessary, stream crossings
should be designed to prevent bank
erosion and any adverse impact to
downstream water quality.
- Given the complex range of trails on
the property, both a trail map and on-
site navigation aids are recommended.
- There could be loop trails for day
rides, and destination trails which lead
to camp sites, overlooks, and picnic
spots.
The American Motorcycle Association
(AMA) rates trails into three categories:
Easiest, More Difficult and Most
Difficult. The following is AMA’s
definition of these categories:
EASIEST
No areas that are steeper than 15%
grade, and no long stretches of
moderate steepness greater than 8%.
The surface is relatively smooth and
compact with minor obstacles only.
Level ground for two to three feet on
either side of the ATV.
MORE DIFFICULT
Steeper, with long stretches up to 12%
grade and no areas steeper than 30%.
Some areas of relatively rough terrain,
loose or muddy soil, and/or obstacles.
Trail is narrower, may drop off on
downhill side or have more frequent
tight curves.
MOST DIFFICULT
Maximum sustained slopes of 15%,
with some areas at or past the limits
of ATV use. Surface is relatively
rough with areas that are very rough,
including loose soil and large obstacles.
Narrowest width of trail, with level
ground only one-and-a-half to two-and-
a-half feet on either side of the ATV.
These are more suited to motorbikes
than ATVs.
Most of the trails on the property fall
into the Easiest or More Difficult range
because they were designed for logging
trucks. Additional trails could be
designed as More Difficult to work with
the existing trail network.
ATV TRAILS
TRAIL EROSION AT STREAM CROSSING EASY TRAIL ON PROPERTY
MORE DIFFICULT TRAIL ON PROPERTY
MOST DIFFICULT TRAIL ON PROPERTYEROSION AND DRAINAGE CONTROL
EXAMPLES
STREAM ARMORING
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r i v e r v a l l e y45
Trail amenities help express the
qualities and characteristics of the place
where they occur. The materials and
furnishings recommended for Little
Mountain Ranch should evoke a rustic
mountain retreat vernacular with the
simplicity of modern design. It is
important that future design decisions
stay in keeping with the vision of
the proposed master plan. We have
provided examples of precedent images
and custom ideas.
Possible amenities include, but are not
limited to:
- Trail wayfinding; these signs can be
simple arrows or more elaborate rock
etchings, as suggested in the graphic,
but ideally they would clearly identify
the trails without disturbing the natural
feel of them.
- Drinking source; spring basins
provide an accessible and clean source
of water. Custom built hand pumps or
simple stone enclosures help to capture
the water for ease of drinking.
- Shelters and pavilions; these may
occur on distant sections of the trail
and may be as simple as a lean-to rain
shelter or more structured places to
spend the night, and enjoy a fire. This
could be especially nice for winter rides!
TRAIL AMENITIES
EXAMPLE OF AN ETCHED ROCK TRIAL MARKER LOCATED
ALONG A CURRENT ATV TRAIL.
TRAIL SHELTER
SPRING-FED BASIN
46. LITTLE MOUNTAIN RANCH, a Highland Retreat
t o p . . .
r i d g e
F r o m
46
SITE AMENITY PRECEDENTS
WOODEN BENCHES
ATV STREAM CROSSINGS
CISTERN & PUMP
FOOT BRIDGES
FENCES
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r i v e r v a l l e y47
FIRE PITS
OVERLOOKS
SHELTERS / PAVILIONS
TRAIL MARKERS
STONE SEATING
49. SUMMARY
The purpose of this study is to provide
a master plan for the family of their
Highland County property, establishing
an overall design vision and planning
recommendations for future use.
The proposed recommendations
are programmed to function for the
enhancement, preservation, and
introduction of rural recreation pursuits.
Interweaving the programmatic
elements with the dynamic patterns of
the site’s ecological processes recognizes
Little Mountain Ranch as a unique,
meaningful, multi-functional family
retreat.
There are numerous projects that
can be executed on Little Mountain
Ranch. The phasing and subsequent
implementation of these projects will
depend on the family’s priorities. It
is important that future participating
parties work together and utilize
the recommendations and design
vocabulary outlined in this book. This,
coupled with the continued stewardship
of the site’s ecology, will help achieve
the goals of the family’s envisioned
program.
Speaking for the entire team, we
have seen few properties as unique
and distinctly Virginian as Little
Mountain Ranch. We are extremely
pleased to provide you with this
master plan and would be honored to
have the opportunity to continue our
involvement in realizing the vision for
your ranch.
DISCLAIMER:
The images in this document were
printed without the permission of their
owners. This document is intended
for the sole use of the client and the
offices of McKee Carson and Field
Sport Concepts, Ltd. It is to be used for
internal design discussions only and
therefore should not be reproduced for
anyone other than the client, McKee
Carson, or Field Sport Concepts, Ltd.
McKeeCarson
and
Field Sport Concepts, Ltd
301 East High Street
Charlottesville, VA 22902
p: 434 . 977 . 7522
f: 434 . 979 . 1194
w: www.mckeecarson.com
49