GSD 6301: Landscape Ecology

This course examines the structure, functioning, and change of a mosaic of ecological systems, such as forests, wetlands, fields, corridors, and villages. Focus is on spatial patterns; flows of animals, plants, mineral nutrients, and energy among ecosystems; and ecological changes in the landscape over time.

GSD 6307: Advanced Topics in Landscape Ecology

An in-depth review of one or more topics of current interest concerning ecological spatial patterns, flows, and changes in the landscape.

GSD 6318: Urban and Suburban Ecology

Wildlife, vegetation, soil, air, water, and aquatic ecosystems, together with their human uses, are related to the distinctive, especially spatial, attributes of suburban and urban landscapes. Topics addressed with ecological emphasis include: urban region; suburbanization, growth and sprawl; planned community and city; suburban town; greenway and greenbelt; large and small open-space types; rail line and trail; road and vehicle; fire and flood; groundwater, wetland, stream, river and shoreline; commercial and industrial areas; development and neighborhood; house lot; building; and tiny green spaces.

Ecology and Land-Use Planning
Environmental Science and Public Policy 90c
(Faculty of Arts and Sciences)

Investigation of how local and regional human activities such as housing, agriculture, water supply, and natural resource use can be arranged in the landscape so that environmental processes are not disrupted and ecosystems are maintained for the long term. The focus is on learning and applying spatial and ecological principles to land-use planning with the intention of regional biodiversity conservation, maintenance of water quality, and addressing other environmental issues.