Conservation Planning with GIS

Conservation planners try to identify and protect places with natural and cultural values. In this course we will investigate different methods for using geographic information systems (GIS) at local to regional scales to evaluate scenic landscapes, wetlands, wildlife habitat and connectivity, land use and energy suitability, and other topics. For each, we will consider the contributions and shortcomings of using GIS for conservation planning through a combination of computer-based analyses, field investigations, readings, and discussions. The Town of Middlebury will provide a case study to learn methods with GIS, and students will develop independent projects that compare Middlebury to other towns in Vermont. (GEOG 150). 3 hrs. lect./3 hrs. lab.