The first step in landscape restoration is to record the site as is; site survey should indicate contour lines at two foot intervals. Accessory features, main buildings, current plantings, and utilities are to be noted. Photographic documentation complements measured drawings. Historical research into contemporary documents provides direction in investigating the site through a technique known as landscape archaeology. Terminal date of reconstruction is based upon the availability of historic information and the existence of original fabric as well as the condition of existing material. The landscape and architectural terminal dates need not be identical. Sources for plants are identified. Maintenance schedules and techniques need to be implemented which do not distract from the restoration effort.