James A. LaGro Jr.

James A. LaGro Jr. is a Professor in the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he has served as Department Chair (2002–2008). He holds a PhD in Natural Resource Policy and Planning (Cornell University, 1991) and an MLA in Landscape Architecture (Cornell University, 1982). His research focuses on land use dynamics, urban sustainability, placemaking, and climate adaptation. Key contributions include advancing smart growth strategies, green infrastructure design, and community resilience frameworks. He has authored influential books such as *Site Analysis* (Wiley & Sons) and contributed to major projects like the Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts (WICCI).

LaGro’s teaching includes courses on urban design, site planning, and open space systems. His work bridges academic research with practical application through service-learning projects with local communities. Notable awards include a AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellowship (2008–2009) and a Landscape Architecture Foundation (LAF) Leadership Fellowship (2021–2022). He currently serves as Editor-in-Chief of *Landscape Journal*.

• Education: PhD (Cornell, 1991), MLA (Cornell, 1982)
• Key Projects: Green Infrastructure for Stormwater Management (UW-Madison), Capital Region Sustainable Communities (HUD grant)
• Major Publications: Routledge Handbook of Urban Resilience (2020), *Site Analysis* (3rd ed., 2013)

His research emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to urban sustainability, including studies on water resources, land use policy, and governance capacity. Recent work explores urban open space systems as multifunctional infrastructure and climate adaptation strategies for resilient communities.