The aim of this course is to enable students to comprehend fundamental theoretical approaches to nature conservation planning, protected area systems, conservation–use balance principles, and landscape planning processes. Within the scope of the course, it is targeted that students will be able to evaluate natural and cultural landscape values in ecological, spatial, and managerial dimensions; analyze planning and management decisions for protected areas; develop sustainable conservation approaches; and become familiar with legal, administrative, and spatial planning tools used in nature conservation processes. In addition, the course aims to reveal the relationship between ecological structure and functions of landscapes, habitat continuity, green infrastructure, carrying capacity, and visitor management within conservation planning.

This course addresses the theoretical foundations of nature conservation, ecosystem services, biodiversity, and sustainability concepts. The historical development of nature conservation in the world and in Türkiye, protected area systems, national and international conservation designations, relevant institutions, legislation, and conventions are examined. Throughout the course, natural and cultural resource values, landscape characteristics, recreational uses, and pressures of national parks, nature parks, special environmental protection areas, and other protected areas are evaluated. In addition, long-term development plans, management plans, zoning, carrying capacity, visitor management, ecological connectivity, green infrastructure, and GIS-supported conservation planning approaches are emphasized. The course aims to provide knowledge and skills for developing sustainable landscape management and planning decisions within the framework of conservation–use balance.The in-term assessment consists of 3 assignments (20%), class participation and performance (5%), and a midterm exam (15%). The final assessment is based on the Final Exam (60%).Students retaking the course are required to complete all assignments, class participation/performance activities, and exams again, in accordance with the course's current assessment structure.