Land Economics and Policy

Catalog description

Land is a key natural resource for society. This course uses economic analysis to examine land use and land use policy, considering how the spatial configuration of landscapes changes in response to changes in land prices, population growth, human preferences, the environment, markets, and institutions. Given current issues including the twin problems of urban sprawl and land abandonment, the course will also examine the role of land use policy and specific programs to guide and provide greater public control over land use decisions, taking into consideration environmental practicality, economic feasibility, and institutional acceptability. Students will gain an appreciation of the importance of land as a resource, and how to use economic tools to understand current land use issues. Knowledge will be gained of the relevant theories, trends and policies through readings and in-class lecture and discussion.