Plateau Lifestyle
This is precious ground, made sacred by the water. A chain of lakes, fashioned from modern industry, lies within the mythology of Austin's origin. Austin springs out from where the Colorado River exits the hills + ecotonal creeks join the waters along an ancient Spanish trail. We're propped up along the edge of the Edwards Plateau, gateway to the Texas Hill Country, where water drips out of the rocks + honky tonk beer caps could be used for mulch. Isn't it time to dance with the one who brought you?
Native Landscapes = Xeriscapes
Landscapes that require little or no outside support, like irrigation or maintenance are commonly labeled xeriscapes. Landscapes that rely heavily, or exclusively on native plants do not need much outside help either, since these plants evolved seeing very similar ecological conditions for many thousands of years. Native landscapes outperform xeriscaping with exotic desert vegetation by providing habitat to other members of the local living community we call the naturehood.
///BLOG: Xeriscaping Doesn't Have to Mean Cactus
Living Good in The 'Naturehood'
Ecotopes' concept of the naturehood involve the remnants of natural systems still functioning among the city's streets. The overall color of boxwoods, bermuda grass + bamboo may well be green, but they might as well be made from cardboard to the degree they contribute to local ecosystems. The rules of the local landscape have changed, or rather reverted back, so now native biodiversity is the foundation to a successful landscape in Austin.
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