Compelling interpretation starts with solid planning.

An interpretive plan is a framework for all future forms of public engagement at a site. Each plan develops through conversation and collaboration: we get to know our client’s mission, goals, audience, and the stories they want to tell. Then we determine how and where to communicate key messages through a cohesive narrative that hooks people in and helps clients get things done—whether that means restoring a wetland
with volunteer support or just keeping visitors on-trail.

Interpretive Planning for a Community Garden

Interpretation goes beyond panels. From wall art to sidewalk inscriptions, 3D elements, found objects, and yes—signage—we combine our diverse skill sets to tell stories through the media that best convey the messages. Our landscape architects connect people with places through artistic landscape elements and thoughtful materials. Stunning visuals emerge from our scientific illustrators, drone pilot/photographer, and mapmakers. Many of us love working with communities to create public art. We’re happy to chat about unique possibilities for your site!

Featured Projects

Kitsap County, WA

A series of interpretive signs located in a Kitsap County park help residents connect their daily lives with watershed health. Interactive spinning wheels offer ideas for DIY green stormwater practices.

Westchester County, NY

We developed an interpretive plan and waysides throughout Croton Point Park. Waysides interpret sites of geological, ecological, and cultural significance, as well as the County’s land management efforts.

Kitsap County, WA

A series of illustrated interpretive signs help Kitsap County residents connect their daily lives with the watershed health.

Bellevue School District

When Bellevue School District redesigned the Odle Middle School campus, Watershed captured existing site conditions, completed a wetland delineation study and habitat assessment, applied for critical area permits, prepared construction plans, and designed interpretive signs to supplement the school’s science program.

University of Maryland

Located at a preschool, this interactive panel teaches young children how raingardens help improve water quality. A chalkboard provides space for playful classroom lessons.

Timberline Middle School

We created an interpretive plan and corresponding waysides throughout the Timberline campus. Waysides engage the campus community in surrounding ecosystems and low-impact design features of the school’s construction.

3rd place in the Outdoor Exhibit Category of the National Association for Interpretation Media Awards — This interactive wayside for Clear Creek Trail in Kitsap County, Washington won an award from the National Association of Interpretation.

Kalakala at Feriton Spur Park in Kirkland, WA — “Kalakala In Flight” is a public artwork we designed for the Feriton Spur Park Expansion on the Cross Kirkland Corridor. The metal birds were created from remnants of the Kalakala, a historic art deco ferry that was partially built near this site. *Kalakala* comes from Chinook words for “flying bird.”

*Image courtesy of Kelly Champoux.*

our process

We’re big-picture thinkers who understand how people interact with their environments. And we manage every detail, from accurate species illustrations to weather-proof materials. Whether the need is for a half-mile interpretive trail or a site-wide planning effort, we work collaboratively and efficiently from grant applications to coordinating manufacturing.