Eric Sanderson works for the Wildlife Conservation Society and began his project when he would layover in New York City while on his many travels. He pondered about the ecological past of New York City and tried to image what it looked like before the city existed. He compiled a group of computer graphic designers, ecologists, biologists, and historians to start the Mannahatta Project.
The Mannahatta Project was Sanderson’s attempt to create a visual representation of Manhattan Island before the widespread urban development. He combines historical maps with hydrological and topographical maps to create a New York that once existed. He was also able to speculate which animals occupied the island, such as black bears, beavers, and wetland birds. At the end of his talk, Sanderson created a visual model of New York City is an ideal ecological form with rooftop gardens and walking green spaces.
Majority of Sanderson’s speech is formative. He explains the details of the Mannahatta Project and shows some convincing pictures of pre-urban New York City. Towards the end of his speech, Sanderson begins to show his opinion on the state of urban development. He states that humans can live in cities but should live more densely rather than sprawled over large areas of land. Some of his last images show a majority of New York City turned in to farmland and condensed urban areas. His idea of reverting back to open spaces and farmlands is admirable, but unlikely. I think that people will continue to want large and spacious properties.
