Master of Natural Resources Professional Papers
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Browsing Master of Natural Resources Professional Papers by Division "Master of Natural Resources Professional Papers (North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources)"
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- A Cost-Benefit Analysis of South Korea's Biodiesel Mandate(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2011-05-09) Sim, Jinsu
- A Geospatial Characterization of Ecologically Significant Areas Impacted by Current and Potential Co-firing Woody Biomass Feedstock Demand in North Carolina(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2012-12) Clary, Christopher
- A proposal for reclassification of the Walnut Creek Wetland to a nature preserve(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2015-04) Graham, SherryGraham, Sherry Anne. A proposal for reclassification of the Walnut Creek Wetland to a Nature Preserve. (Under the direction of committee chair Dr. Gary Blank and committee members Dr. George Hess and Dr. Roger Moore). The Walnut Creek Wetland Center opened in September of 2009 aiming to increase awareness about the benefits wetlands provide. The center is situated in a 48 acre wetland owned and managed by the City of Raleigh Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department. Although establishment of the Walnut Creek Wetland Center was brilliant, the surrounding open space still requires procedures and funding to address problems like invasive species, erosion, poor access to the wetland, lack of properly trained staff to handle spontaneous arrivals of unattended children, and influxes of litter washed from upstream. The land surrounding the center is categorized in different use classes, with none of them being preserve or park. The 48 acre tract is designated as greenway by Raleigh Parks, which is a land use class managed more for human access rather than protection of natural resources. In 2011, the City of Raleigh Parks Recreation and Cultural Resources adopted criteria to guide establishment of nature preserves. The Walnut Creek wetland has never been formally assessed for suitability as a nature preserve but according to my estimation, it meets five of the first eight Nature Preserve criteria and all of the additional criteria for a total of 10/13. Hence, I propose a formal assessment prior to expenditure of bond funds. In this document I set forth factors to make this a high priority for natural resource managers within the City of Raleigh. Factors set forth as motivation for reclassification are: (1) Socio-economic motivation (2) Historical land use, specifically how it informs future land use (3) Current inventory assessments of wetland function and habitat (4) Adherence to the City of Raleigh 2030 Comprehensive Plan and hence the newly adopted Parks Recreation and Cultural Resources System Plan. Research on these four factors confirmed that the neighborhood just north of the WCWC is one of the most economically depressed in the city. Current quality of ecosystem function and habitat are medium in the wetland, which indicates potential for restoration. Biodiversity and human access are low but bond funding will eventually be available. Historical research shows that rich habitat once did exist; even now a relatively diverse habitat exists despite a two-mile proximity to a major metropolitan area in a sustained period of population growth. In response to population growth the City of Raleigh adopted the System Plan. The Parks Recreation and Cultural Resources System Plan sets forth the current Level of Service for Nature Preserves by establishing that each citizen should live within five miles of a Nature Preserve. There is not a preserve within a 5 mile radius of the majority of citizens in southeast Raleigh. Establishment of a Preserve in the Walnut Creek Wetland would satisfy this Parks Recreation and Cultural Resources objectives by increasing level of service while protecting ecosystem services. In anticipation of a Master Plan, the wetland is being proposed for designation as a Nature Preserve with funding, management, and protection beyond that of a traditional park. A unique proximity to both downtown and connection to other protected properties makes habitat improvement in the Walnut Creek wetland an ideal resolution for the immediate neighborhood, urbanites in downtown Raleigh, and the ecosystem itself. To improve habitat, five actions are recommended. (1)Reclassify the Walnut Creek Wetland from greenway to Nature Preserve. (2) Dedicate funds to the Nature Preserve to control access and ensure the most sensitive areas see minimal impact. (3) Preserve and protect the area to expand Significant Natural Heritage Areas via ecosystem restoration efforts designed to increase occurrences of heritage species. (4) Protect water quality by taking measures to reduce influx of litter from Little Rock Creek and pinpoint the sources of other pollutants; and (5) Strengthen community outreach to increase awareness that healthy streams are a community asset and wetlands are an integral aspect of healthy urban infrastructure and economy due to the ecosystem services they provide.
- A regression analysis exploring the impact that sawmills and production have on Southeast softwood timber prices(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2015-06-24) Humphrey, ChristopherAbstract: This analysis focused on the price and production of softwood saw timber in the states of North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. Since the preponderance of softwood timber production occurs along the eastern portion of these states, only specific regions were used for modeling purposes. The data was analyzed via a 2 stage least squares regression model which determined the relationship and effect between the number of sawmills, and estimated production within in a particular region and the price for timber. After analyzing the data, it was determined that the positively correlated relationship that exists amongst the independent variables in the time series format does not exist when a regional, spatial component is taken into account. The negative relationship exists between prices and markets on a regional level at the 98% confidence interval. The elasticity of sawmills was determined to be a 1% increase in sawmills leads to a 5% decrease in prices.
- A Spatial Database of Existing and Potential North Carolina Renewable Energy (NCRE) Facilities and Resources(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2010-11-23) Cser, HeleneAbstract Cser, Helene. Master of Natural Resources – Assessment and Analysis Technical Option. Title: A Spatial Database of Existing and Potential North Carolina Renewable Energy (NCRE) Facilities and Resources A detailed Geographic Information System (GIS) based database has been created to show the locations of existing and potential renewable resources and their proximities to energy facilities capable of harnessing the energy to meet the requirements stated in the NC Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard (REPS) and North Carolina’s Strategic Plan for Biofuels Leadership 2017. The purposes of this database are to (1) provide preliminary data to interested parties and (2) encourage sustainable renewable energy development for North Carolina. The renewable energy resources and facilities that are included in the database include: animal waste, secondary fuels (biodiesel, biogas, and ethanol), processing residues, electrical generators (co-firing coal plants, biomass facilities, wood fired boilers, operational and potential landfill gas projects, solar, wind, and small hydroelectric sources). The database also contains supporting data such as infrastructure, boundaries, and population centers. One problem with the wealth of resources is that they are widely dispersed across the North Carolina landscape. The expected significance of this spatial database is that it will provide a tool for encouraging economic growth within the renewable energy industry sector. It will also provide a baseline state inventory and help ensure the sustainable development of renewable energy. Those who will find this spatial database mapping useful include parties interested and involved in sustainable renewable energy development, such as the scientific community, energy developers, environmental groups, and local planners. The documentation and methods of data accumulation used to create this spatial database consisting of existing and potential renewable resources datasets gathered and created are provided. An overview of GIS (Geographic Information System) terminology, the geodatabase structure, and an explanation of the format used to describe the spatial database is provided for users new to GIS. A database assessment of the strengths, limitations, opportunities, and potential problems are provided as well. The spatial database currently exists on a server that is housed within the Forestry Department at the College of Natural Resources. It is recommended that all renewable energy data for North Carolina continue to be consolidated into one spatial database and updated frequently in order to provide beneficial information for all renewable energy sectors. The spatial database should be housed within an organization that will maintain and update the data, provide an interactive web application, and consulting services to interested parties. The organization that will house the spatial database should form partnerships with various state agencies, non-profit and private organizations, and universities. Finally, it is recommended that additional data and models be incorporated into the database to allow for more in depth spatial analysis.
- Accuracy Assessments for Headwater Stream Maps in Western North Carolina(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2013-05) Johnson, AmandaHeadwater streams are essential to downstream water quality, therefore it is important they are properly represented on maps used for stream regulation. Current maps used for stream regulation, such as the United States Geological Survey (USGS) topographic maps and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) soil survey maps, are outdated and do not accurately nor consistently depict headwater streams. In order for new stream maps to be used for regulatory purposes, the accuracy must be known and the maps must show streams with a consistent level of accuracy. This study assessed the valley presence/absence and stream length accuracy of the new stream maps created by the North Carolina Center for Geographic Analysis (CGIA) for western North Carolina. The CGIA stream map does not depict headwater streams with a consistent level of accuracy. This study also compared the accuracy of stream networks modeled using the computer software program, Terrain Analysis using Digital Elevation Models (TauDEM), to the CGIA stream map. The stream networks modeled in TauDEM, also do not consistently predict the location of headwater streams across the mountain region of the state. The location of headwater streams could not be accurately or consistently predicted by solely using aerial photography or elevation data. Other factors such as climate, soils, geology, land use, and vegetation cover should be considered to accurately and consistently model headwater stream networks.
- Agroforestry Technology Transfer in Los Rios, Chile: Analysis of Rural Farmers’ Response to Outreach and Education(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2014-11) Gonzalez-Jeuck, GrizelGonzalez-Jeuck, Grizel. Master of Natural Resources – International Resources Agroforestry Technology Transfer in Los Rios, Chile: Analysis of Rural Farmers’ Response to Outreach and Education Owing to their commitment to sustainable development, Chile has implemented education and outreach programs to motivate rural farmers to implement agroforestry methods. Follow-up visits to farmers who had received outreach services revealed that while some farmers had successfully implemented the methods introduced, other farmers expressed confusion about the processes or appeared as though they had never received outreach materials. A qualitative, multiple method study was conducted, utilizing SWOT analysis design to survey farmers who had received agroforestry outreach materials in San Jose de la Mariquina. Written outreach materials were also analyzed to establish design and readability appropriateness. Analysis of current written outreach materials indicate that they are not suitable for theintended audience and that design elements such as font and picture size, use of technical language and the number of concepts covered should be revised. In addition, survey responses suggest that agencies should incorporate alternate modes of communication, such as mobile phones and radio as a means of bolstering outreach efforts. Finally, results from the SWOT analysis reveal that respondents tend to have a positive attitude toward benefits associated with agroforestry and they show interest in learning about agroforestry methods. However, inconsistent delivery of written materials and continued tensions between Mapuche stakeholders and the Chilean government pertaining to land use and development pose threats to outreach efforts. Further analysis of outreach methods in other regions is needed determine generalization of this study’s findings.
- An Analysis of the North Carolina Wetland Assessment Method (NCWAM) Using Quantitative Metrics(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2013-01) Steele, AshleyThe purpose of this project is to determine the accuracy of the North Carolina Wetland Assessment Method (NCWAM). NCWAM is a rapid assessment method developed by an interagency team of federal and North Carolina agencies. The purpose of NCWAM is to provide a resource to regulators, planners, and the general public. This resource would aid in project planning, alternatives analysis, compliance, enforcement, mitigation planning, and tracking functional replacement. The successful implementation of NCWAM would allow these agencies to regulate mitigation based on wetland functionality, and therefore value. Because of the intent to use NCWAM in a regulatory capacity, it is important to provide evidence supporting its ability to successfully perform as an accurate evaluator of wetland functionality or find weaknesses so that it can be improved upon. By finding evidence to support or refute the accuracy of NCWAM in this way, this project contributes to the credibility of the NCWAM project. Data were collected which included physical vegetation, macroinvertebrate, amphibian, and physical and chemical data. This project used these data to calculate metrics, which were then examined for relationships between the data and the NCWAM scores.
- An Analysis of Woody Biomass Harvesting Guidelines (BHGs) for North Carolina Forestry(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2011-12-21) Gugelmann, Brunell
- An Interactive Web Mapping Application for Alternative and Renewable Energies in North Carolina(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2011-03-29) Knight, JessicaAbstract Knight, Jessica. Masters of Natural Resources – GIS Technical Option Biomass is coming to the forefront of renewable energies, especially in the state of North Carolina. The Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard that was passed in 2007 sparked an interest in the state in this sector, along with increased pellet demands in Europe and a desire for clean and “home grown” fuels. Companies are seeking to build their businesses in North Carolina and want to know just what the state has to offer them. In a world of technology, everyone is looking for a way to solve problems quicker and easier, even in the renewable energy sector. There are several web mapping applications that are in use or are being developed that make use of spatial information relating to renewable energies and resources. Some of these applications are just used for basic data viewing, and others carry out basic analysis functions. This interactive web application, or IMS, makes use of several spatial data layers, an algorithm, and a python script to create a map that is then put onto the web utilizing the ArcServer 10 environment. Several biomass-based commodities are utilized in the IMS: hardwoods, softwoods, cultivated crops, and hay. The IMS has a custom analysis tool that allows a user to enter two commodities of interest, the percentage of each commodity is required, and a distance in miles. The result of the analysis is a raster map displaying the total amount of the commodities, based on the requirements input by the user, throughout the analysis area. White areas of the map are desirable, as they are areas with high levels of the commodity and black areas are less desirable areas. This tool will be used as a way to get prospective companies interested in the state of North Carolina and involve them in the analysis process. Currently, this application is not available to the public, but it will continue to be improved upon and more tools will be added. The user interface will be made more userfriendly, with more than two commodities able to be selected, with all but one being optional. Costs will also be added to the analysis tools to create more real-world analysis scenarios. After improvements are made, this application will be made public for prospective companies to make use of and explore the state for biomass-based renewable energy generation.
- Assessment of Thermal Pollution Associated with Riparian Canopy Clearning(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2014-11-05) Blackwell, James; Line, DanielAbstract Blackwell, James and Daniel E. Line PE. Master of Natural Resources Geographic Information Systems Technical Option. Assessment of Thermal Pollution Associated With Riparian Canopy Clearing This report summarizes the results of monitoring water temperatures at 5 stream sites for 2+ years. The sites encompassed varying stream sizes and lengths, tree canopies, and road improvement activities. This study was designed to document water temperature in mountain streams that have had limited tree removal in the riparian corridor as a result of road improvement. Results showed that for a large stream (drainage area >10,000 ac) the temperature increase from upstream to downstream was <0.09 F, even though the stream had a reach of 650ft without any tree canopy. Monitoring on 2 of the 4 smaller streams (drainage areas <1,000 ac) documented a decrease in temperature from upstream to downstream of a reach where road improvements had occurred. The reason for the decrease was not known, but clearly road improvements were not causing increases in stream temperatures. For the 2 small streams with increases in temperature, the greatest increase (0.61 F) from upstream to downstream occurred for a stream reach of >3100ft with essentially no tree canopy. Altogether the data suggested that: 1) for larger streams (drainage area >10,000 ac), removing trees outside a 20ft stream buffer did not result in a measurable increase in temperature, 2) for larger streams (drainage area >10,000 ac), with all tree canopy up to a 650ft reach removed, the increase in temperature was <0.10 F, 3) tree canopy is not the only factor influencing whether stream temperature increased in a monitored stream reach, 4) additional research is needed where stream temperature is monitored before during and after road improvement to more definitively document the effects of riparian canopy reductions on stream temperatures.
- Combining Non-Timber Forest Product Extraction and Selective Logging: Can it increase profits on Programme for Belize's lands?(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2000-02-07) Deason, GingerDeason, Ginger. Master of Natural Resources International Resources Technical Option. Combining Non-Timber Forest Product Extraction and Selective Logging: Can it Increase Profits on Programme for Belize’s Lands? By the end of the 20th century, the economic importance of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) and the possibilities they provide for conserving the tropical rainforest were in the forefront of many management plans and ecological studies. Bayleaf palm (Sabal mauritiiformis) is one such NTFP found in the Rio Bravo Conservation and Management Area (RBCMA) of northwestern Belize. Recent studies have found that there are ecologically sustainable ways to harvest bayleaf and that there are commercial markets for bayleaf in Belize. Programme for Belize (PfB), owner of the RBCMA, has zoned areas for NTFP extraction but has not begun harvest of bayleaf. This study considers whether bayleaf harvest would be more feasible if it were combined on the same land as selective logging. The idea of combining selective timber harvesting with NTFP extraction in the same area is not new. Programme for Belize includes selective logging as a part of its management plan and could possibly extract bayleaf from selectively logged lands with little added disturbance of the surrounding forest, and with minimal added costs. PfB’s access to market and the current and future profitability of bayleaf harvest are crucial in determining if its extraction would be feasible. This study was undertaken to determine if harvest of bayleaf from timber extraction zones could increase PfB’s profits. The principal elements analyzed were added costs, demand, and market structure in order to (i) develop an estimate of the costs and revenues from bayleaf harvest by PfB, (ii) assess current and potential future trends in the demand for bayleaf, and (iii) determine the current structure of the bayleaf market and identify any obstacles to PfB’s participation in the market. Costs such as stock surveys, labor and transportation, were determined through observations and informal interviews. Surveys were conducted to get opinions on bayleaf and its demand. The market structure was evaluated through open-ended interviews, observations, and survey results. It was determined that a stock survey of bayleaf palm on the RBCMA could be added to the timber stock survey with minimal additional costs. Moreover, labor costs would be minimal. Depending on how PfB transports bayleaf from Hill Bank Field Station to the market, however, the transportation costs could be extremely high. Surveys conducted of three different groups revealed that most people believe bayleaf is increasing in demand (especially in the tourism sector), but is becoming less abundant. The opinions expressed in the surveys showed people believe that the price of bayleaf has been increasing over the past five years and will continue to increase in the future. The majority of the people surveyed also believe that certification of bayleaf as harvested sustainable could be beneficial in protecting the species, yet most lodges surveyed would be unwilling to pay more for leaf that was certified sustainable. A thorough review and assessment of the market structure of bayleaf for tourism operations indicated that there are two main markets within reach of PfB: the inland market and the island market. The inland market is composed of contractors, usually working with family members to harvest and transport the leaf, and has few players and points of exchange of leaf. The island market, on the other hand, has many players, many points of exchange, and more available options for transport and purchase. With a rise in use in tourism for tourist facilities, bayleaf could become a valuable commodity on the Belizean market. Currently, its price does not fetch enough for PfB to make a generous profit. However, PfB could possibly foster healthy community ties by allowing locals to enter the RBCMA and cut bayleaf for a small fee and still make a small profit. This would have to be carefully planned, as there could also be negative consequences (i.e. increased poaching on RBCMA). Furthermore, if the populations of bayleaf dwindle and the tourism sector continues to grow, attitudes of lodge owners might change making certification of bayleaf an option and increasing the price of the leaf as well as the profit margin for PfB.
- Comparing Cary’s Water Resourcing to the Future Development of Pittsboro’s Water Resourcing(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2015-12) Terbilcox, Daniel
- Comparing the Influence of the Swift Creek/Middle Creek Homeowners Association and the Umstead Coalition in Altering Land Use Decisions(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2005-05) Swaim, CrissSwaim, Criss. Master of Natural Resources – Assessment and Analysis Technical Option. Comparing the Influence of the Swift Creek/Middle Creek Homeowners Association and the Umstead Coalition in Altering Land Use Decisions This study utilizes a comparative case study method to evaluate the influence of two non-profit organizations active in the mid-1990s on land use decisions. In Wake County, North Carolina, the Middle Creek/Swift Creek Community Alliance and the Umstead Coalition worked to protect a parcels of land considered critical for environmental integrity and water quality. The Middle Creek/Swift Creek Community Alliance was focused on enforcing building regulations for the drinking water watershed and the Umstead Coalition defeated the building of a connector road, the Duraleigh Connector, through the Richland Creek cooridor. Each organization was evaluated from the perspectives of context, activities and outcomes achieved. Organizational histories and land use histories set the context for conflicts over development in watersheds that were considered environmentally sensitive. A narrative of the conflicts was then developed primarily from newspaper accounts. Using a policy science framework to map the social processes involved in each case, the outcomes were evaluated in terms of relationships between decision makers and organizations. As a final analysis, the outcomes were compared against each other to answer questions about the effectiveness of the activities. The results of the self-assessment were mixed. One organization expressed frustration and ineffectiveness while the other perceived success. In both of these cases, the effectiveness of actions to stop specific projects was evaluated differently even though in both cases the protested projects were not built. Effectiveness appears to be linked to four parameters: (1) Size of the issue - If the issue a narrowly defined project, like a road or dam, an organization can be very effective at influencing the policy process. However, if the issue a long-term, regional wide issue like watershed water quality protection, there does not appear to be the ability to control the outcomes. (2) Size of the organization – The size of the organization directly affects the influence of an organization. A larger membership has more avenues of contact to the decision makers and they are able to leverage those relationships to get a voice at the decision table. (3) Communication techniques – Dialogue that brings about viable solutions rather than polarizing positions tends to encourage discourse and bring legitimacy to the decision making process. (4) Use of science – Scientific information was not used in the process to develop viable alternatives. Rather, the tendency was use it to support pre-formed positions. The critical parameter appears to be the size of the membership. A large, well-connected membership has many avenues through which it can pursue influencing the decision making process. How well an organization manages these parameters can alter the outcomes if the activities lead to achieving a focused objective, such as stopping a road or advocating for a particular solution. However, when a broader objective, such as the protection of watershed water quality, is the goal, organizations tend to have difficulty achieving their outcomes. In each case discussed, when the broader goal of watershed water quality was evaluated, both watersheds were labeled impaired and unable to support the intended biotic functions. This calls into question the ability of non-profit organizations to protect environmental integrity.
- Comparison of Headwater Stream Origin Determination Methods(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2004-02) Carr, John D.Abstract Carr, John David. Master of Natural Resources Spatial Information Systems Technical Option. Comparison of Headwater Stream Origin Determination Methods. Water Quality in North Carolina is being negatively impacted by sedimentation pollution and nutrient loading. Riparian Buffer Rules (RBRs) have been adopted in many watersheds to abate these impacts. USGS 1:24,000 topographic maps and USDA County Soil Survey maps are the planning tools used to deploy RBR regulations to the regulated community. Errors in the approximate depiction of streams are known to exist on the USGS 1:24,000 topographic maps. Thirty-two stream origins were delineated using N.C. Division of Water Quality Stream Classification Method on the 514-hectare Harris Research Tract (HRT) located in southwest Wake County, North Carolina. The most recent USGS 1:24,000 topographic map of this area approximately depicts ten streams on the HRT. Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis techniques were used to extract stream origin predictions form Aerial Photography, Digital Raster Graphic, Digital Line Graphic, Digital Elevation Model, and Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) data for the Harris Research Tract. The stream origin predictions extracted from each data layer were compared to the thirty-two stream origins located in the field. Difference in Euclidean distance was used to evaluate how well the predicted stream origins matched the thirty-two stream origins located in the field. The stream origin data generated using LIDAR more closely matched actual findings in the field than all other data layers tested. Technological advances in high resolution digital elevation data and terrain analysis software could potentially be used to improve the approximate depiction of streams on the USGS 1:24,000 topographic map.
- Comparison of methods for mapping forested trails using remote sensing at Umstead State Park(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2015-12) Hill, StevenHill, Steven. Master of Natural Resources - GIS Technical Option. Title: Comparison of Methods for Mapping Forested Trails Using Remote Sensing at Umstead State Park. In this project I demonstrate the usefulness of high resolution LiDAR surveys in mapping forested hiking trails. The study builds off previous studies in which the “break in slope” profile of roads is used to delineate road features in rough, forested terrain. Formal hiking trails in certain topographies also exhibit this same profile. The study site for this report is Umstead State Park, in Wake County, North Carolina. A comparison of LiDAR’s increased capabilities to delineate features is also conducted with high resolution orthophotography. Using this approach, the two selected trails were mapped with completeness of 68.9% and 80.8% of their predetermined lengths. Field verification of features revealed a 93.3% producer’s accuracy for both trails.
- Comparison of Southern State Best Management Practices Used to Protect Water Quality during Forestry Operations(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2003-06-09) Scott, Jonathan
- Connectivity in Wake County - a strategic analysis of the Wake County Consolidated Open Space Plan - greenways(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2009-03-26) Bukowy, CatherineBukowy, Catherine. Master of Natural Resources – Policy and Management. Connectivity in Wake County – A Strategic Analysis of the Wake County Consolidated Open Space Plan – Greenways. Wake County has identified the preservation and management of open space as a high priority for the county. One component of the open space plan is greenways, which are to help provide connectivity between natural areas, people and nature, and further aide in the protection of water and air quality. While these goals have been marked, and progress has been made, it has been done without detailed strategic planning and reflection and with only modest operational input. The purpose of this project is to assess the progress of greenways planning in the county based on the Consolidated Open Space Plan of 2006. The assessment relied on stakeholder input, as well as literature review of greenway planning in other areas and GIS analysis to determine if the county is on track to meeting its stated objectives. Review of the COSP reveals the use of multiple definitions of greenways, a nonspecific plan for greenway creation, and a detailed plan for greenway building. It is recommended that Wake County create a single definition on which to base its future greenway planning. Further data on the natural resources available within the county, as well as the true location of current greenways should be attained and placed in a geographic information systems database. GIS can assist in locating priority areas for natural resource conservation that may otherwise be indiscernible. Additional discussion with stakeholders concludes that there is great interest in the county in building greenways; however, Wake County would like to act more as a silent partner, assisting in land acquisition and possibly funding construction. Although there is great support from leaders in various governments, non-profit, and private groups the citizen voice through public involvement is little used. Land acquisitions have been previously funded through citizen approved bonds. Bonds have proven an unstable mechanism amidst the current economic crisis and another funding mechanism should be sought.
- Development of “green growth”: a conservation planning training module for urban planners in North Carolina(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2007-06) Presley, Jacquelyn
- Early growth and community development of vegetation in North Carolina riparian and wetland mitigation sites(North Carolina State University. College of Natural Resources, 2015-05-06) Jaworski, Jaclyn
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