Using GIS to Examine Exurban Density Patterns in Watauga County, North Carolina

Abstract

Increasing population and land use change in rural areas are of significant importance to residents of western North Carolina. Previous studies have shown rapid growth in rural areas is associated with declines in environmental quality as well as increased home prices. This study provides an analysis of spatial density surfaces derived from land parcel data to measure exurban growth. A case study demonstrating housing trends based on density surface analysis over a nearly sixty year time period (1950-2007) is presented at two scales: across Watauga County and within a one mile buffer of the South Fork of the New River. Growth is discussed in relation to the environmental planning issues of land and water conservation strategies as well as strategies for increasing public participation in land use decision-making.