Landscape ecology is the study of variation within and among landscapes at a variety of spatial and temporal scales. It seeks to understand the biophysical and societal causes and consequences of landscape heterogeneity. Above all, it is interdisciplinary.

The conceptual and theoretical core of landscape ecology links natural and social sciences. Landscape ecology has several additional core themes:    

• the spatial and temporal pattern of landscapes, ranging from wilderness to cities,

• the relationship between pattern and process in landscapes,

• the relationship of human activity to landscape pattern, process, and change,

• the effect of scale and disturbance on landscapes. 

Throughout the world, landscapes are being altered more rapidly, more extensively, and more profoundly than at any point in human history.  Landscape ecology provides locally important and policy relevant information about landscape change.  Landscape ecologists serve as a critical link between theory and action:  We provide information about risks for decision makers, improve the applicability and accuracy of planning tools, integrate uncertainty into forecasting. Landscape ecology has contributed to sound planning with foresight: Forest management for rare species, conservation design, comprehensive land use planning, and sound land use policy are just a few of the many examples. 

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