Which strategy is essential for addressing environmental issues during site evaluation?

The strategy of drawing the site as defined by legal boundaries is essential for addressing environmental issues during site evaluation because it provides a clear and accurate representation of the land that is being assessed. Understanding the legal boundaries is crucial in identifying the limits within which the architect and environmental planners must work. This ensures that any environmental analyses, such as assessments of existing vegetation, wildlife habitats, or hydrological systems, are confined to the correct area, preventing any misinterpretations or errors in the evaluation process.

Legal boundaries also have implications for zoning regulations and environmental protections, such as those related to wetlands, endangered species, or cultural heritage sites. By accurately defining the site, architects can better manage and plan for potential impacts on the environment, as well as adhere to legal requirements during the design and construction phases.

While the other choices may provide useful information during site evaluation, they do not specifically address the fundamental need to accurately represent and understand the physical and legal characteristics of the site itself, which directly influences environmental assessments and decision-making.