Landscaping is a critical element in improving both the function and appearance of rainwater recycling and storm water management practices. Designing landscaped areas to soak up rainfall runoff from building and paved areas helps protect water quality in local creeks and waterways. As Mike Breedlove, landscape architect and head of Breedlove Land Planning in Conyers, GA, likes to say, The role of the landscape architect is to successfully marry mankind to nature.