Creating Multifunctional Landscapes: How Can the Field of Ecology Inform the Design of the Landscape?

Authors:
Lovell, S.T. and D.M. Johnston

Publication Date:
2009

Abstract/Summary:
Here, we propose a process for designing multifunctional landscapes, guided by ecological principles in the following steps: (1) defining the project site and landscape context, (2) analyzing landscape structure and function, (3) master planning using an ecosystem approach, (4) designing sites to highlight ecological functions, and (5) monitoring ecological functions. The development of a framework for ecological design of landscapes demonstrates the importance of a multi-scale approach for connecting sites to their surroundings, the benefits of a multifunctional design for sustainability, and the value of involving ecologists throughout the entire design process.

Resource Type:
Peer-reviewed Article

Source:
Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment

Link:
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1890/070178/abstract