This thesis explores the potential contribution of landscape architects to the ecological stewardship of a Georgia piedmont forest ecosystem. Pathways by which people come to appreciate a sense of place as well as the integrity of this particular ecosystem are considered. Drawing upon the work of environmental psychologists Rachel and Stephen Kaplan and landscape architect Robert Ryan, human preferences, organized in pattern sets relating to understanding and exploration are contrasted to patterns observed in Georgia piedmont forest habitats and analyzed for their implications to ecological stewardship. Environmental planning and management approaches are examined for appropriateness in achieving human preferences over time within the integrity of the ecosystem. The approach seeks to integrate environmental psychology, culture and ecology.