This course examines methods for quantifying environmental outcomes of landscape planning and design using spatial simulation and ecosystem service modeling. The intellectual focus is on understanding how landscape interventions influence environmental processes across multiple scales, including hydrology, climate regulation, and carbon dynamics. Students explore how modeling frameworks are used to translate spatial data into measurable indicators of environmental performance and how these tools inform planning, design evaluation, and sustainability decision-making. The course emphasizes applied modeling workflows, scenario analysis, and interpretation of results within planning and design contexts.

Students are expected to have prior familiarity with basic GIS concepts, including spatial data formats, map projections, and simple spatial analysis functions, typically gained through an introductory GIS course or equivalent experience. No prior experience with ecosystem service modeling is required.