Balanced Use of Natural Resources

Land use policy is a key tool for balancing the use of natural resources with the demands of a growing population.  In the Northeast especially, land use is critical because the region has about 23% of the U.S. population but only 8% of the total land area.  Land use policy directly affects one of the most critical issues to be addressed in meeting growing demands for food, feed and fuels. The widespread impact on water quality, air quality, loss of open space, wetlands, and wildlife habitat from many areas of the country and the stagnation of inner cities and suburbs suggests a new approach to land use is needed. The Northeast Regional Center for Rural Development has contributed to this debate by publishing books, organizing conferences and bringing together stakeholders through varied venues.