Introduction
Earth to all of us is an expansive place; but for as vast, complicated, and diverse as it is perceived to be, this common home to eight billion human beings contends with finite realities. Competition for finite spaces—call them essential habitats—that support differing species, ecosystems, and even human dreams is just one of the many realities Earth faces.
Nothing is more consequential in impacting the future of the planetary biosphere than the human footprint, and no profession is more closely connected to this discussion than the field of architecture. The profession considers the benefits and impacts of the built environment, measuring our presence on these finite landscapes.
Today, regarding how we approach the question of co-existence between humanity and the natural world, three areas of cross-disciplinary study provide lenses for such issues as reciprocity, sustainability, resiliency, and regenerative human activities. Those lenses are wildness, as in the persistence of places deemed wild; re-wilding, in which we can improve the ecological function or heal settings that have been impaired by human footprint, and de-wilding in which natural systems deemed healthy fall into decline.
In the Lower 48 states, the premiere region for thinking about architecture, wildness, and advanced place-based learning is the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. This boundary encompasses the corners of three states, represents the headwaters for three major river systems in the West, has a prosperous nature-based economy, is experiencing an unprecedented incursion of population growth and development, and most notably supports the healthiest congregation of large wild native mammal species south of Canada and Alaska.
During the 2024 Spring semester, while teaching at the Huckabee College of Architecture, I have tasked students with a unique academic exploration intended to test their problem-solving capabilities as aspiring young architects. The course is intended to advance how students think about architecture’s future impact on Earth, while also learning about and critically considering a place that resides at the center of America’s shared natural heritage.
My aspiration was to explore types of pedagogical formats to support design students’ understanding of concepts of wilding and rewilding in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. I believe that the next generation of designers’ understanding of how we cohabitate with other species is key to better lives for all species in the future. As a teacher, I believe that providing students with critical knowledge and empowering their work through independent and critical thinking will result in a life-long commitment to being a better resident of Earth. The GYE PROJECT is their work, representing hours of research, passionate commitment, and collaborative effort to bring the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and its plights to life for others.
In reflection, I believe this student-led investigation has applications far beyond the academic walls of Texas Tech University. Given fresh insights and perspectives provided by students, it can also serve as a reference point for those who are involved with trying to save the ecological integrity of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, while also highlighting the issues to reflect on applicable for other places challenged by the under-considered human footprint.
We invite you to use the GYE PROJECT website as a tool to learn more about this iconic place. The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is a national natural treasure for all Americans; its’ landscape, wildlife, and human impacts are essential to understanding the relationship of wildlife’s longevity.
If inspired, review the TAKE ACTION tab to learn how you can make a difference. Our improved understanding alongside better choices for wildlife, will not only preserve Greater Yellowstone for the future but will additionally devise better ways to navigate climate change, using nature as an ally rather than as an impediment to better living.
Looking to the future.
Sincerely,
Lori Ryker, PhD