ACRP is soliciting Letters of Interest from those interested in performing the research work. A cover letter plus a resume or CV should convey a concise idea of your knowledge of the topic and your related work and experience in the subject area. A statement that you can comply with the terms of the contract should be included. A panel of topic experts will select the contractor at their first panel meeting. The deadline for letters of interest is February 2, 2026 by 5pm eastern and can be submitted at https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8553743/ACRP-Synthesis-LOI-2026

Tentative Scope

Airports can be adversely affected by their surrounding environments (wildlife, tree growth, standing water, etc.) causing safety and security issues.  As common landscaping practices can introduce a variety of these issues it can be difficult to create attractive landscapes at airports. Furthermore, airside and landside landscaping is not eligible for federal funding making this a low priority. However, some airports have identified benefits of landscaping, including providing visual and noise buffers between the airfield and surrounding communities, and have incorporated creative landscaping to enhancing the airport environment for employees and customers.

The objective of this synthesis is to document airside and landside landscaping practices that enhance customer satisfaction at the airport while sustaining operational safety.  

Information to be described in a concise report includes (but is not limited to):

• Identifying airport practices for landscaping on the airside and landside, including challenges that airports take into consideration when creating a landscape plan.
• Identify staff requirements, and costs for maintenance and maintain the landscape.
• Documenting the advantages and disadvantages of changing the landscape.
• Documenting challenges and benefits that arise from airport landscaping.
• Case examples should include landscaping plans, execution, and maintenance for landscapes on airport landside and airside.

Information will be collected through literature review, a survey of airports if applicable, and interviews with selected airports for the development of case examples. Knowledge gaps and suggestions for future research to address those gaps will also be identified.

Potential Information Sources

Advisory Circular, AC 150/5320-14 Airport Landscaping for noise Control Purposes

ACRP Synthesis 128, Airfield Turf and Vegetation Management Practices