Business Details
15 Years
experience
Award-Winning Ecological Landscape Design Services
Beargrass Landscape Architecture is a dedicated landscape architectural firm serving the East Kootenays of British Columbia and Northern Montana. Our approach emphasizes minimal gestures that create intuitive, natural spaces seamlessly integrated into functional environments. With a foundation in ecological principles, we specialize in diverse projects including dog park design, food forests, native plant design, and pollinator gardens. Our work spans residential master planning, ecosystem assessments, and ecological restoration, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and environmental harmony. Leslie Lowe, our lead landscape architect, brings over a decade of professional experience and academic expertise, having earned licensure in Montana, Connecticut, and British Columbia.Our partnership with Keefer Ecological Services expands our capacity to deliver comprehensive ecological solutions. We prioritize science-based practices, community engagement, and innovative design to address both private and public sector needs. Our portfolio demonstrates a track record of award-winning projects, including recognition through the Best of Whitefish Award for Landscape Planning Services. Through Grotpo, a plant information software initiative, we extend our expertise into digital platforms for gardening and agricultural communities. Our interdisciplinary approach combines technical precision with a deep understanding of natural systems to create enduring, functional landscapes.
Services
Dog Park Design
Food Forests
Native Plant Design
Pollinator Gardens
Ecosystem Assessment
Ecological Restoration
Residential Master Planning
GIS Integration
Details
- Year established: 2011
Highlights and features
- We integrate ecological science with creative design for sustainable landscapes
- Our team holds professional licensure in three North American jurisdictions
- Award-winning expertise recognized through multiple Best of Whitefish Awards
- We partner with ecological specialists for comprehensive project solutions
- Our founder brings 15+ years of combined design and environmental education experience
Associations and certifications
- American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)
- Registered Landscape Architect (RLA)
Services
Dog Park Design
Specialized design of functional dog parks integrating safety, accessibility, and natural elements. Our parks feature zoning for different dog sizes, durable surfacing materials, and integrated waste management systems. We prioritize community needs while maintaining ecological balance through native vegetation incorporation.
Food Forests
Creation of sustainable, multi-layered food-producing ecosystems mimicking natural woodland patterns. Our designs incorporate climate-appropriate fruit trees, berry shrubs, and perennial vegetables while maintaining aesthetic appeal and biodiversity benefits. Projects include educational components for long-term maintenance.
Native Plant Design
Development of landscapes using regionally appropriate native plants to support local ecosystems and reduce maintenance needs. Our approach creates habitats for pollinators, improves water retention, and establishes low-impact outdoor spaces that thrive in Northern Montana and BC climates.
Ecosystem Assessment
Comprehensive evaluation of existing ecological conditions to inform sustainable design decisions. Services include plant community mapping, soil analysis, and wildlife habitat assessment to create baseline data for restoration and development projects.
Pollinator Gardens
Design of specialized gardens supporting native pollinators through diverse plant selections and habitat features. Our gardens incorporate seasonal bloom cycles, nesting sites, and educational elements while maintaining aesthetic appeal for residential and community settings.
People
Leslie Lowe
Registered Landscape Architect
Master Landscape Architect with 15+ years of experience in ecological design. Specializes in food forests, dog parks, and native plant ecosystems. Licensed in Montana, Connecticut, and British Columbia. Holds MLA and MFA degrees with additional expertise in GIS integration and environmental education.
Questions
What geographic areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Northern Montana and British Columbia's East Kootenay region, with project experience across diverse ecosystems in these areas.
What makes your landscape approach unique?
Our designs combine ecological science with artistic principles, prioritizing native plant integration and sustainable systems that adapt to local climate conditions.
Do you handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we work on diverse scales from private residences to community parks and public infrastructure projects with equal attention to ecological integrity.
What qualifications does your team hold?
Our lead architect holds dual master's degrees in landscape architecture and drama design, with professional licensure in three jurisdictions and 15+ years of field experience.
Can you incorporate edible landscaping into designs?
Yes, we specialize in food forest creation that combines productive edible plants with ecological design principles for sustainable, functional landscapes.
