Landscape Ecology

3 units

Effective and sustainable design requires knowledge of the unique combination of systems, processes, and organisms that define specific regions, as well as the basic principles governing ecosystems. Applied ecology and design must also consider the role of human cultural interactions in shaping these systems. This course provides a broad understanding of ecological concepts focused through the genesis, character, and cultural relationships of contemporary ecosystems. Students will learn to use concepts of ecology, conservation biology, evolutionary theory, and natural and cultural history to determine the factors and system constraints influencing the design of landscapes. The course focuses on local ecosystems: their origins, composition, process regimes, and historic and contemporary cultural interactions. Through this immersion in local landscapes and habitats, students will gain an understanding of biological systems and ecological concepts, and acquire the tools to inform ecologically relevant and sustainable design anywhere in the world. The class incorporates lectures, guest presentations, field trips, and extensive readings and class discussions, along with assignments combining research and analysis in a design context.