ODST 203 - Land-Use Change in the Adirondacks

Using the Adirondacks as a case study, this course examines the historical and contemporary context for current activities in the land planning. Emphasis is on human interaction with the rest of the natural world. Study of the past begins with verbal and visual information recorded in the sixteenth century. Study of the present utilizes political theory such as internal colonization and core-periphery. Institutional arrangements affecting distribution of power are highlighted, but the orientation is not strictly anthropocentric; the role of the non-human participants is also considered.  Concepts in land planning are defined, including notions of sustainability, footprint analysis, and various models for policy-making. To understand application of such ideas, the course employs local examples through discussion and field-trips. Assigned reading for current events is from a basic text in planning and several books focusing specifically on the Adirondacks.  A more strictly place-based approach is utilized for historical readings. This course counts for Environmental Studies ESP requirement. (One unit credit)