SUMMARY OF INFLUENCES AND RESPONSES THAT SHAPE THE CHARACTER OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
ECOLOGICAL INFLUENCES
The area has a cold climate with a short
growing season.
Summer is lush and green accented by the
whiteness of birch tree trunks.
The landscape is relatively flat, with many
lakes and bogs.
The groundwater table is high.
Coniferous forests prevail over deciduous
forests.
In winter, frost depth ranges from 4 feet to 8 feet.
Snowfall can reach 100 inches.
Snow stays on the ground all winter.
Prevailing winds are from the northwest.
The landscape is intimate, with most views
closed off by trees.
The summer climate is muggy and buggy.
Lakes and wetlands provide the main
openings for views.
Riparian zones protect the integrity of
lakeshores and water quality.
CULTURAL INFLUENCES
A strong tradition of well-constructed and
well-crafted structures endures.
Early white settlers were Scandinavian,
French, and northern European.
Early structures were log homes.
Settlements were traditionally close to water
for transportation.
Culture was shaped by tens of thousands of
lakes.
Lakefront sites are desirable for structures
but are highly regulated and require setbacks.
Hunting, cross-country skiing, and fishing
(including ice fishing) are popular activities in
national forests.
The culture values a manicured landscape,
which can be ecologically sterile.
Ten million people live within driving distance
of national forest facilities.
Examples of cultural influence in structures:
Lakefront structures
Scandinavian log influence
Dairy/Agricultural