Abstract |
The report identifies key land use issues facing EPA and analyzes those issues in terms of the environmental impacts involved and the projected magnitude of the problems over time. The need to view land use in terms of an intermedia perspective is emphasized. A preliminary analysis is made of broad land use categories, i.e., agriculture, mining silviculture, transportation, energy facilities, and residential, commercial and industrial usage. Land use issues are divided into two subdivisions: General growth pattern and the siting of key facilities. Each of the major land uses is viewed in terms of impact on air, water, and noise pollution levels, and indirect effects such as induced development on surrounding land. Land use variables which reduce adverse environmental impact are cited. Several growth issues are discussed: concentration versus dispersion, development patterns, rural-urban interface, nondegradation, critical areas, and new construction. In the area of facility siting, the study focuses upon projected demand, supply and land use patterns, primary and secondary environmental impacts, and land use control measures to abate adverse environmental impact. The report is documented in attached appendices. |