Rural Sustainable Development in America [Hardcover]

A wide-ranging exploration of the issues shaping development inrural North America for the years ahead

This unique volume presents guidelines for dealing with theproblems of development in rural areas, with coverage thatencompasses theory, strategic planning and policy implementation,and practical experience. It contains an in-depth examination ofthe problems faced by rural American towns, communities, andfamilies, and it explores a range of innovative solutions based onthe concepts of sustainable use of indigenous talents andresources.

Contributions by leading experts and seasoned practitionersrepresent a broad spectrum of experience and ideological outlook,making Rural Sustainable Development in America must reading foranyone involved in community development; rural geography,planning, and economic development; public administration;agricultural economics; and public policy. The book covers:
* Historical, philosophical, and ecological foundations ofsustainable development in the rural context.
* Principles of a rural sustainable future in which developmentpolicies embrace holistic and interactive views of ethics, ecology,economics, and sociopolitical systems.
* Different approaches to policy and planning strategy at theregional and local level.
* The role of citizen involvement and empowerment in choosing andeffecting change in community life.
* Real-world experiences with alternative rural-urban symbioses inagriculture, waste management, greenways, and trails.
* Analysis of specific community-based efforts at regionalrevitalization in Indiana, Central Appalachia, and EasternCanada.

The development of an energy and technology intensive, globalagricultural production system over the last few decades has had adevastating impact on traditional rural communities--from thedecline of family farms to the virtual depopulation of small townson a wide slÃ6