Ecology and Landscape

Protecting natural systems through informed, ecosystem-based planning.

UBC Okanagan’s campus ecosystem supports biodiversity, natural processes and long-term sustainability goals, while offering cultural, educational and recreational value. These ecosystems provide essential services—from regulating climate change and filtering water, to offering habitat, learning and recreation opportunities. Guided by the Whole Systems Infrastructure Plan and Campus Plan, our approach to landscape and ecology emphasizes ecosystem-based planning and the protection of environmentally sensitive areas. These areas are identified based on habitat value, ecological integrity and contribution to regional biodiversity.

At the same time, we recognize the increasing threat of wildfire in the Okanagan region. Our planning considers and balances ecological values with the need for wildfire resilience, ensuring that our landscapes are not only biodiverse and sustainable, but also designed to reduce fire risk and enhance campus safety.

Explore how we assess campus environments, protect species at risk, support naturalization and adapt to the Okanagan’s changing climate, while building resilience to wildfire and other environmental challenges.