Natural Areas Management

Natural resource areas, or natural areas, throughout Brambleton are considered to be a valued and protected environmental amenity. Natural areas are defined as having physical characteristics developed through natural growth rather than design or planning. Many of the natural areas can be enhanced by man but maintain a natural look and environmental benefit. There are several classifications of natural areas found throughout Brambleton.

Forested Common Areas & Woodlands

Brambleton has numerous forested areas or woodlands. Forested common area is considered a natural resource and should be protected in that manner. Dumping of debris, cutting of trees or clearing understory growth within the forested open space areas is prohibited.

The Association is responsible for maintenance in these areas and will perform the following tasks:

• Remove litter on an as needed or as reported basis
• Remove or treat poison ivy on the perimeter of the woodlands on an as requested basis
• Trim hazardous branches on trees or remove trees on the perimeter of the woodlands as deemed hazardous. Tree “snags” may remain as habitat for wildlife.

Tasks that are not performed in natural areas:

• Clearing of understory
• Clearing of fallen trees
• Removal of leaves

Hedgerows

Hedgerows are rows of cedar trees or other native evergreen trees which can provide a visual buffer. These may have been preserved from initial development or planted since initial development and may be found on common areas, between sections of homes, along borders of the community or at other locations which shall remain in a natural and native state.

The Association will provide limited maintenance within these areas:

• Remove litter on a reported or as needed basis
• Remove or treat poison ivy on a requested basis when the hedgerow is adjacent to resident’s lot
• Trim trees of hazardous branches as deemed necessary and reasonable by the Association
• Remove trees as deemed necessary. Tree “snags” may remain as habitat for wildlife. County approval may be necessary for the removal of trees

Meadows

There are areas within Brambleton that contain natural and native meadows. The meadows are typically larger parcels of common area and are considered a natural resource that provides needed habitat for the local wildlife.

Maintenance standards for the meadows are minimal:

• Remove litter or debris on a reported or as needed basis
• Meadows may be selectively enhanced with additional native wildflower mix for color

While routine inspections are performed on BCA facilities, the Association relies on all residents as well to report any concerns or deficiencies on the common area.