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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in Southwestern Alberta
Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies September 2003
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Report Prepared by:
Danah Duke, Michael Quinn, Bryne Butts, Tracy Lee-Ndugga and Karen Wilkie
Prefatory Comment & Invitation for Feedback This is the final report for the first phase of a long-term research program. The report is being circulated to solicit input and feedback from a variety of interested individuals. All feedback will be used to improve and guide subsequent research on this topic. Please forward any comments, concerns or suggestions to the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies. Comments may be forwarded electronically to: [email protected] or by mail to the address below.
Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
c/o Faculty of Environmental Design, University of Calgary 2500 University Drive N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 1N4
403.220.8968 [email protected] www.rockies.ca
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Acknowledgements The authors are grateful for the financial support provided by Alberta Ecotrust, Alberta Environment, the Henry P. Kendall Foundation, the University of Calgary and the Alberta Summer Temporary Employment Program. We would like to thank Krista Tremblett for her valuable contributions to the project. We would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the many people who provided information and data.
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Contents Prefatory Comment & Invitation for Feedback............................................................................... i Acknowledgements.............................................................................................................................. ii Contents ............................................................................................................................................... iii Introduction..........................................................................................................................................1
Objectives .............................................................................................................................................5 Study Area ..........................................................................................................................................5
Methods.................................................................................................................................................7 Settlement Footprint Layer ...................................................................................................................7 Multivariate Analysis ..........................................................................................................................8
Table 1: Data Sources..........................................................................................................................9 Assumptions/limitations ....................................................................................................................10
Results..................................................................................................................................................11 Thematic Maps ..................................................................................................................................11 Probability Surfaces - Multivariate Analysis.......................................................................................24
Discussion ...........................................................................................................................................29 Thematic Maps ..................................................................................................................................29 Probability surfaces.............................................................................................................................31 Limitations ........................................................................................................................................33 Population Growth.............................................................................................................................33 Residential expansion .........................................................................................................................34 Factors Influencing Rural Migration ...................................................................................................34 Implications of Rural Residential Development....................................................................................36
Landscape Transformations ....................................................................................................37 Ecological Implications............................................................................................................37 Socio-Cultural Transformations .............................................................................................39 Rural Economic Transformation............................................................................................39 Impact on agricultural lands ....................................................................................................40
Conclusion ..........................................................................................................................................40 Literature Cited...................................................................................................................................42 Appendix 1..........................................................................................................................................47 Appendix 2..........................................................................................................................................48
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
List of Tables
Table 1: Data Sources…………………………………………………………………..…..9
List of Figures
Figure 1: Crown of the Continent Ecosystem ………………………………………2
Figure 2: Study Area Map …………………………………………………………..6
Figure 3: Time Series of Total Number of Structures by Township ……..…………... 13
Figure 4: Total Number of Structures by Township ……………………………………14
Figure 5: Density of Structures by Township ………………………………………….15
Figure 6: Annual Rate of Increase from 1989-2002 by Township ……………………16
Figure 7: Density of Structures M.D. of Foothills 2002 ……………………………...17
Figure 8: Density of Structures M.D. of Ranchland 2002 …………………………….18
Figure 9: Density of Structures M.D. of Pincher Creek 2002 ………………………...19
Figure 10: Mean Annual Rate of Increase from 1989-2002 M.D. of Foothills …………20
Figure 11: Mean Annual Rate of Increase from 1989-2002 M.D. of Ranchland ………...21
Figure 12: Mean Annual Rate of Increase from 1989-2002 M.D. of Pincher Creek ……..22
Figure 13: Graphic representation of total relative number of structures by Township …23
Figure 14: Probability surface – Entire Study Area …………………………………...25
Figure 15: Probability surface – M.D. of Foothills …………………………………...26
Figure 16: Probability surface – M.D. of Ranchland …………………………………27
Figure 17: Probability surface – M.D. of Pincher Creek ……………………………...28
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Introduction
Southwestern Alberta constitutes a significant portion of the Crown of the Continent
Ecosystem (CCE). The CCE extends from the Bob Marshall Wilderness complex in
Montana to the Highwood River in Alberta and to the Elk Valley in British Columbia,
covering approximately 42,000 square kilometers (Figure 1). Internationally recognized for
it’s biological and landscape diversity, the region constitutes one of the most ecologically
intact areas on the continent. The CCE encompasses the headwaters of three major North
American river systems, providing glacial waters for the ecological health of many
communities while flowing to the Pacific, Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. The ecological
gradient from prairie to alpine within a relatively short distance provides a regional
foundation for a remarkable diversity and abundance of life. Home to eight carnivore
species, the CCE valleys serve as important wildlife movement corridors connecting
metapopulations of various species up and down the Rocky Mountain Cordillera. A wide
variety of smaller mammals, birds, herpetiles, and arthropods of ecological importance are
also found in the CCE. The region is likewise home to a significant diversity of plant species
and vegetation communities.
The human population, and concomitant “footprint”, in the CCE has expanded significantly
in recent decades. However, there is little, if any, detailed spatial analyses that characterize
the changing and expanding patterns of human use. In response to the burgeoning regional
population, and the remarkable tourism/recreation opportunities, the CCE is experiencing
increased human use pressures. Demands for recreation and amenity resources are steadily
increasing. Expansion in both the renewable and non-renewable natural resource extraction
sectors is likewise changing the landscape. The cumulative effects of all human use are
altering native vegetation community composition and structure, and modifying natural
disturbance regimes. One of the costs incurred through increased human presence is habitat
loss and fragmentation. In addition, prime agricultural land continues to be eroded as it
gives way to other land uses. Jurisdictional fragmentation is also extremely high as a variety
of entities exercise mandates, rights or interests on the land.
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
The CCE is recognized as a source and conduit for wildlife movement throughout the
Rocky Mountain Cordillera. The future connective functionality of the region is predicated
on how human presence and activity is managed. The ecological health of the region is also
inextricably linked to the economy and social well-being of people and communities. Clearly
there is a need for a comprehensive inventory and analysis of human use, including
residential structures, in order to facilitate future land use planning and management.
Between 1971 and 2001, Alberta experienced the greatest increase in rural population in
Canada (32%) compared to the overall growth of 8% recorded for the rural Canadian West
(Azimer and Stone, 2003). Similarly, in the 1990s, the population of the western U.S.
increased by 20%. Although the State of Montana grew by a lower amount (12.9%) overall,
the municipalities of Kalispell, Whitefish and Columbia Falls grew by an unprecedented
44%. Population expansion in Alberta and in the U.S. portions of the CCE is also matched
by similar trends in British Columbia. Calgary, although technically north of the CCE, is the
largest regional urban centre and is currently growing at a rate of approximately 3% per
annum; while adjacent communities such as Okotoks and Cochrane are growing at more
than twice that rate. The demands for recreational and residential expansion created by this
population growth are immense. Human expansion into the upper Flathead River drainage
and a recent approval for a subdivision at the gates of Waterton Lakes National Park are
indicators of growing human use within the CCE. Although the census information
provides a clear measure of increasing human population, it does not provide much
information about the spatial distribution of people on the rural landscape.
As population increases in the Canadian West, the human footprint on the landscape
increases, resulting in reduced habitat available for wildlife, decreased landscape connectivity,
and loss and fragmentation of agricultural lands. In addition, human development is often
associated with key wildlife habitat and movement corridors. Future development planning
and priorities for protection need to be guided by an understanding of the current footprint
on the landscape and the need to maintain core habitat areas, landscape connectivity and
critical agricultural regions.
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Rural residential development has been identified as a concern along the eastern slopes of
the Rocky Mountains (Hulme and Bergman 2002). Throughout this region, residential
developments are replacing large mountain ranches that provide agricultural products,
employment and income, wildlife habitat, open space, and the cultural heritage of western
communities (American Farmland Trust 2002). In addition, the implementation of low-
density residential development results in the loss and fragmentation of land for farming,
forestry, habitat, flood control, and other natural ecosystem functions (Nelson 1992).
These transformations in farm and ranchland have been concentrated around the periphery
of urban areas where agricultural land is particularly productive (Berton 2002). However,
since the 1990s, pressure for residential development has extended beyond the urban/rural
fringe and into isolated, amenity-rich areas (Coupal, McLeod, and Taylor 2003; Beale and
Johnson 2002; Beyers and Nelson 2000). The landscape changes resulting from residential
development and their potential implications for agricultural production and the persistence
of habitat are not well understood and are often absent from the land use decision making
process (Hansen et al. 2002). Despite the lack of understanding, the potential loss and
fragmentation of farm and ranchland associated with rural residential development is a
significant concern, particularly in areas experiencing rapid population growth and increasing
demand for new rural residential developments.
Residential development results in significant land use changes that need to be well
understood in order to conduct effective environmental management and land use planning.
Effective land use planning includes understanding the effects of the type, density and spatial
distribution of human activities on the landscape. The development of models and scenarios
can aid in understanding the dynamics of land use change and help to project future land use
trajectories in order to facilitate land use management decisions (Verburg et al. 2002).
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Objectives
The primary objective of this study was to spatially quantify the rural residential expansion in
southwestern Alberta and examine historical trends of residential land use change. By
determining the trends of rural residential expansion, one can start to examine the ecological
impacts of this landscape change. This report also outlines the causes and implications of
rural residential expansion.
Before proceeding further, it is essential to define what was included in the “rural
residential” footprint. For the purposes of this study, we included all permanent residential
structures and associated structures. This included both agricultural and non-agricultural
residences as well as some commercial structures. Examination of the tax assessment
databases used to conduct this analysis showed that the majority (86.86%) of the structures
documented in this analysis represent residential structures with a minority (7.10%)
representing agricultural services, and 4.04% representing associated structures related to
residences (Appendix 1). The intent was to capture the spatial distribution of the dynamic
residential footprint.
Study Area
The study area (Figure 2) included the Municipal Districts of Rocky View, Foothills, Pincher
Creek, Willow Creek, Ranchland and Cardston County along the Foothills of the Rocky
Mountains in southwestern Alberta. Indian reservations and urban centres were removed
from the thematic maps and these areas, in addition to forest reserves, were not considered
in the multivariate analysis.
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Methods Settlement Footprint Layer
Extractions of relevant information from the tax assessment databases were obtained from
each municipal district in the study area. Data fields from the tax assessment databases used
in the analysis included the legal land description information (township, range, section,
quarter section), building type codes and effective year (date of structure). The building type
codes included all those that represented a footprint or permanent structure on the
landscape (see Appendix 2). Data from municipal tax assessments were merged with a
quarter section spatial file to produce a new GIS (Geographic Information System) spatial
layer. The GIS spatial layer was created by merging tax assessment databases obtained from
municipalities and quarter section spatial files obtained from Alberta Environment, resulting
in a settlement footprint layer representing the location of structures throughout the study
area at the quarter section level.
A unique identifier for each quarter section was created by concatenating the Meridian,
Range, Township, Section and Quarter section fields to create the string “MRRTTSSQQ".
The 'LDID' (legal description identifier) field contains this string. This was done in both the
spatial file and the tax assessment database.
A frequency table was generated from the tax assessment database using the LDID, building
type, and effective year fields to get the number of unique occurrences of each combination
of these attributes for each quarter section. The frequency table was queried into ten-year
periods (1930-1940, 1941-1950, 1951-1960, 1961-1970, 1971-1980, 1981-1990, 1991-2000)
and then summarized on the LDID field. The result is the number of structures per quarter
section per decade.
The above table was joined to the quarter section polygon file on the LDID field, and the
values from the frequency table added to the corresponding 'decade' field in the polygon
table to make a permanent, 'flat' table with summarized structure numbers for each decade.
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
The “architecture” of the research design was constructed so that expansion of the study
area (e.g. to a larger area of Alberta) and/or tracking changes in future years can be easily
accommodated. A number of thematic maps were created to display trends in residential
growth. These maps were displayed at the township level for the entire study area and at the
quarter section level for three individual municipal districts. We used the M.D.s of Foothills,
Ranchland and Pincher Creek to display results at the quarter section level. These M.D.s
were used to demonstrate a range of residential growth. The following are the parameters
that were calculated to illustrate the change in rural residential land use:
Cumulative total structures: The total number of structures assessed on the quarter
section for each decade. This summary includes the total for the previous decades.
Density of Structures: Density at the township level was calculated by dividing the total
number of structures in a township by the number of quarter sections in that
township. For most townships the number of quarter sections is 144 but the number
can be smaller for areas divided by M.D. boundaries, protected areas, urban areas or
other areas that were excluded from the analysis.
(Density = [sumDecade] / [count_township])
Density at the quarter section level is simply the number of structures per quarter
section.
Annual rate of growth (1989 – 2002): At the township level, rate was calculated for the
period 1989-2002 by dividing the difference in the number of structures between
1989 and 2002, by the number of years in the period.
(Rate per twp = [sum2002] - [sum1989] / 13)
Multivariate Analysis
The spatial organization of urban expansion can be related to biophysical and socio-
economic conditions in a region (Verburg et al, 2002). We used a step-wise multiple logistic
regression to determine the probability of a structure occurring on a quarter section given a
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
set of influencing variables that are commonly associated with urban expansion (Verburg et
al., 2002; Lambin et al., 2001). These variables included proximity to: roads, urban areas,
lakes, streams, and protected areas as well as terrain ruggedness. All variables and data
sources used are listed in Table 1. All data were converted into grids of 30 m. All variables,
excluding terrain ruggedness were converted to distance grids using the ECUDISTANCE
command in ARCINFO version 8.2. A terrain ruggedness index was created using a 25 m
DEM and a 5x5 window in the DOCELL command in ARCINFO version 8.2 (Logan,
2003).
Individual municipality quarter section spatial layers were merged and a random set of 1500
quarter sections (from a database of 7471) were generated from the quarter sections that
currently have one or more structure. A random set of 4500 random quarters that currently
do not contain a structure (from a database of 24887) was selected. Random selection was
done using ArcView Animal Movement Extension Version 1.1 (Hooge and Eichenlaub,
1997).
Table 1: Data Sources Variables Scale Source Structure (dependant) Quarter section Municipal Taxroll Databases Distance to Roads 1: 20 000
(major roads) Alberta Provincial Base map (included all roads classes as 2 lane and above)
Distance to Urban Centers 1: 50 000 ESRI Data CD Distance to Lakes 1: 20 000 Alberta Provincial Base map Distance to Rivers 1: 20 000 Alberta Provincial Base map Distance to Parks 1: 20 000 Alberta Environment Terrain Ruggedness 25 meter Alberta Provincial DEM
Grid values were extracted for each variable for each quarter section (with and without
structures) using the ArcView extension, GetGridValue and added to the settlement
footprint layer. This resulting table was exported in a dbase format, imported to SPSS 10 and
entered into a binary logistical regression (forward: step wise) to derive a multivariate model
that would predict the presence or absence of structures in a quarter section. The data were
weighted based on the total number of structures in a quarter section. Randomly selected
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
quarters with no structures were assigned a value of 1. A Spearman’s rank correlation was
run using SPSS to screen variables for multicollinearity (Ebdon, 1985).
A probability surface was created in ARCGIS 8.2 using the following equation:
P = 1/ (1 + exp (-1(a +bx1 +cx2…..) ))
using coefficient results from the step wise logistical regression. An ROC value was
generated to determine the discrimination capacity of the model (Pearce and Ferrier, 2000).
Assumptions/limitations
Structure information is not captured in some urban and high-density housing areas (i.e.
Calgary, Fort McLeod). These areas were omitted if a unique identification for the quarter
section (LDID) could not be created. In these cases there were Lot or Plan numbers for the
parcels but no reference to a quarter section. In some cases the LDID string was incomplete
because of missing entries in the assessment database. Depending on the extent of the
missing string, the record was either deleted or it’s summarized value added to a similar or
adjacent quarter section. (If the Mer, Range, Twp, Sec and part of the QS matched).
Using tax assessment information as development indicators has some limitations. First, the
tax assessments obtained from the municipalities included current structures on the land.
Therefore buildings that existed before 2001, but no longer existed in 2001, would not be
included. Consequently, an accurate analysis of residential decline was not possible.
Prior to 1955-1965, tax assessment databases for all municipal districts, excluding the M.D.
of Rockyview and the M.D. of Foothills, included the “effective year” which represented the
year that an improvement was built on an existing structure. Therefore, these dates do not
reflect the actual age of the structure but the year of the improvement in order for
depreciation values to be accurately assessed.
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Results
The compilation of tax roll information for the study area resulted in the mapping of 32254
structures in the rural landscape at the quarter section level. Residential dwellings accounted
for 28,650 (86.86%) of these structures (Appendix 1). The overall density of structures for
the entire study area was 0.79 structures/km2, although the following sections illustrate that
the spatial distribution of the structures is far from uniform.
Thematic Maps
The patterns of human settlement in the landscapes of southwestern Alberta are most clearly
discernable through graphic representation. The following selection of thematic maps was
selected to illustrate some of the more significant spatial patterns:
Figure 3 depicts a time series of cumulative total number of structures per township
of for the entire study area from between 1940 to and 2002.
Figure 4 presents the cumulative total number of structures throughout the study
area by township. Results were generated at both a quarter section and township
scale and were presented at the township level across the entire study area and at the
quarter section level for individual municipal districts.
Figure 5 illustrates the density (average number of structures per quarter section) of
structures throughout the study area by township
Figure 6 shows the annual rate of increase from 1998-2002 of structures by
township.
Figures 7, 8 and 9 portray the density of structures in the Municipal Districts of
Foothills, Ranchland and Pincher Creek respectively.
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Figures 10, 11 and 12 depict the annual rate of increase of structures per quarter
section in the Municipal Districts of Foothills, Ranchland and Pincher Creek
respectively.
Figure 13 is a graphic representation of the total relative number of structures per
township of the entire study area.
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Probability Surfaces - Multivariate Analysis
A multiple logistic regression based on the six variables (Table 1) was calculated:
Logit (p) = 1.9343 - .0000393 (distance to protected areas) - .0001991 (distance to roads_ -
.0000900 (distance to urban centres) + .0000383 (distance to lakes) + .0000684 (distance to
streams) - .0014016 (terrain ruggedness). All variables resulted in a significance of p>0.05.
This equation resulted in a ROC of .753 indicating a reasonable discrimination ability (Pearce
and Ferrier 2000). We used this regression equation to construct maps outlining the
probability of a structure occurring on the landscape (at the quarter section level). Structures
were found to be more likely to occur closer to protected areas, roads (highways), and urban
centers and less likely to occur in areas of rugged terrain or in close proximity to water
bodies. Spearman’s rank correlation (N = 4000, representing a random sample of quarter
sections with and without structures, 14% of entire database) resulted in all variables having
a correlation coefficient <0.70. A series of maps provides a graphical presentation of these
results (Figs. 14, 15, 16, 17).
Figure 14 outlines the probability surface for the entire study area generated from the
multiple logistic regression analysis.
Figure 15 outlines the probability surface for the Foothills municipal district. This
map also outlines existing structures.
Figure 16 outlines the probability surface for the Ranchlands municipal district. This
map also outlines existing structures.
Figure 17 outlines the probability surface for the Pincher Creek municipal district.
This map also outlines existing structures.
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Discussion Thematic Maps
The thematic maps graphically illustrate the expansion of human settlement in southwestern
Alberta. In this report, it is the intent of the authors to let the maps and figures “speak for
themselves” with little detailed interpretation. A more detailed analysis is planned for
subsequent phases of the research program. However, the following section is provided to
provoke some thought on the topic of land use change and planning.
The human footprint in southwestern Alberta is most predominant along the Highway 2
corridor and around urban centres. The increasing footprint demonstrated in Figure 3
outlines an increase in the total number of structures surrounding the city of Calgary,
extending south along Highway 2 and also south of the Blood Indian Reserve. The most
dramatic increases can be seen between 1980 and 2002. Particularly rapid and extensive
growth is seen around the fringes of Calgary in areas such as Okotoks, Chestermere and the
area directly west of Calgary within the M.D. of Foothills. This same trend is indicated in
Figure 5, which demonstrates the highest rate of growth for the period 1989-2002 to be
localized around these same areas with annual rates of growth between 30 and 45 structures
per township.
The municipal district of Foothills is located directly south of Calgary. The pattern of human
use and development in the M.D. is a reflection of the natural diversity found across the
M.D. landscape. Agriculture dominates land use patterns in the M.D. Cultivated croplands
occur primarily in the eastern portion of the M.D. while lands used predominantly for
grazing and forage occupy the western half. (Agriculture and AgriFood Canada 2002). Much
of the native cover of the M.D. has been converted to croplands, forage or tame pasture.
However, this land use pattern is rapidly changing. The proximity to Calgary has brought
increased pressures for country residential development and recreation opportunities to the
northern half of the M.D. (Agriculture and AgriFood Canada 2002). The M.D. includes the
Towns of Okotoks, High River, Turner Valley, and Black Diamond, the Village of
Longview, and the Eden Valley Indian Reserve.
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Figure 7 demonstrates the residential development in the M.D. of Foothills to be occurring
in clusters centered on the Highway 2 corridor. The density of structures decreases with
increasing distance from Calgary and increasing distance from Highway 2.
Figure 10 provides a finer scale picture of this trend for the M.D. of Foothills demonstrating
the annual rate of increase (1989-2002) at the quarter section level. Several quarter sections
have annual rates of >1, indicating an average of more than 1 additional structure being
added to a quarter section each year between 1989 and 2002. This rate of growth can be
contrasted to other municipal districts such as Pincher Creek (Figure 12) and Ranchland
(Figure 11) that show substantially less and lower annual rates of structural development.
The M.D. of Ranchland is characterized by large, intact, remote properties with little
subdivision. The area is predominantly comprised of sprawling ranches and Crown lands
which are used for grazing with both deeded and leased rangelands. The M.D. is unique in
that there are no urban centres within its boundaries. Land use in this M.D. is dominated by
ranching. Other significant land-uses in the M.D. of Ranchland include petroleum extraction
and tourism/recreation.
The municipal district of Ranchland has relatively few structures compared to other
municipal districts and counties in the study area (see Figure 3). The M.D. of Ranchland has
experienced lower annual rates of growth compared to the M.D. of Foothills and relatively
fewer quarter sections with structures compared to both the M.D. of Foothills and Pincher
Creek.
The M.D. of Pincher Creek is located in the extreme southwest corner of Alberta. This M.D.
is located the furthest distance from Calgary of all the M.D.’s included in this report.
Farming and ranching, as well as oil and gas, wind energy and tourism activities are integral
to the Municipal District’s economy. The M.D. of Pincher Creek is bordered by Waterton
Lakes National Park and Crown lands to the west, the U.S. border to the south and ranching
and agricultural lands to the east. The primary urban centre is the Town of Pincher Creek.
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Figures 9 and 12 outline a cluster of structures built within the past 10 years at the junction
of Highway 3 and Highway 540. Comparisons between Figures 9 and 12 indicate that much
of the footprint occurring in the M.D. of Picher Creek has occurred within the past 13 years.
Figures 7-9 outline the differences in density of structures in the three different municipal
districts. Figure 7 depicts that the MD of Foothills has 2.5% of quarter sections with greater
than 10 structures per quarter section. In comparison, Figure 8 shows the MD of Pincher
Creek with 0.7% of quarter sections having greater than 10 structures and Figure 9 shows
that the MD of Ranchland has only 0.4% of quarter sections with greater than 10 structures.
Unlike the clustering of structures seen in the M.D. of Foothills (Figure 7), structures in the
M.D. of Pincher Creek are distributed more evenly across the M.D. In the M.D. of
Ranchland, structures are localized along Highway 22.
Probability surfaces
The resulting probability surfaces (Figures 14-17) outline the probability of a structure
occurring on a quarter section based on selected landscape features associated with existing
structures. The predictive surfaces provide a tool to assist land managers in identifying
hotspots or critical areas that may experience the pressures of residential expansion in
southwestern Alberta. The identification of areas that may experience future developmental
pressures allows comparisons to known areas of critical agricultural and ecological
importance (core habitats, connectivity zones) to be made. Such information can be used to
help develop alternative planning and development tools such as transferable development
rights or strategic conservation easement planning. This may result in reduced social,
economic and ecological disturbance by identifying areas with potential conflict prior to
development.
The highest density of structures is found in the M.D. of Foothills with 25% of quarter
sections having 10 or more structures. The M.D.’s of Pincher Creek and Ranchland have
much lower values of 0.7% and 0.4% of quarter sections with 10 or more structures. These
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
values provide a good picture of the extent of rural subdivision. The resulting probability
maps indicate a strong positive influence of proximity to roads, urban centres and, to a lesser
extent, protected areas. Proximity to streams and lakes had a weaker, negative influence.
Terrain ruggedness had a negative influence indicating the preference for structures to be
located on quarter sections with reduced indices of terrain ruggedness (flatter, gentler
slopes). As discussed below, the relationships defined in this analysis are consistent with
those found in other studies, indicating the importance of proximity to roads and urban
centres in predicting the occurrence of structures (residences).
At a finer scale, Figures 15-17 outline the probability of structures occurring on a quarter
section in relation to existing structures. These maps provide an effective tool in identifying
sites with high probability of structures occurring in relation to existing structures. Figure 15
outlines areas of high probability east of Okotoks and High River along Highway 799 and
south of Turner Valley that do not currently have structures. Figure 16 identifies areas west
of Pincher Creek along Highway 3 as potential hot spots for structures.
Figure 16 outlines several quarter sections in the municipal district of Ranchland and areas
further south located in the M.D. of Crowsnest Pass that result in high (>0.5) probability of
structures being built. The map clearly indicates there are several areas within this M.D. that
offer favorable development sites based on the resulting relationship of the landscape
variables. These areas are centered on the Crowsnest Pass and areas adjacent to roads, with
many of the high probability sites extending north from Crowsnest Pass up Highway 940.
Quarter sections located within the M.D. of Ranchland have relatively lower probability
values compared to those in the M.D. of Foothills and Pincher Creek due to Ranchland
having fewer primary roads and no urban centres. However, the increasing traffic along
Highway 22 through the M.D. of Ranchland, and the relative proximity to Calgary, makes
the scenic and amenity value of this area very desirable to those wishing for subdivision
opportunities.
33
Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Limitations
The tax assessment data do not differentiate between ‘agricultural’ and ‘rural’ residential
structures on the landscape. Therefore all reference to residences (87% of database) includes
both agricultural and rural residences. Further delineation of the data would be required to
separate agricultural residences from other types of residences.
Variables not included in the probability analysis that may influence the results include
proximity to Crown land (natural amenities) and the difference in municipal land use
policies. Integration of these policies to the analysis may affect the resulting probabilities.
This type of modeling exercise is effective at identifying short-term projections of land use
change. However, if land use change continues, this methodology is incapable of projecting
changes based on the demands for different land use types (Berburg et al. 2002).
Population Growth
Previous studies have shown that the highest primary rural population growth occurs in
areas adjacent to census divisions of having 50,000 or more persons (Azimer and Stone
2003). This trend is clearly visible in Figures 3-6 as the highest rates of growth and highest
density zones are seen in areas adjacent to the Calgary. In Alberta, rural municipalities
adjacent to metropolitan areas have grown rapidly between 1986 and 1996 (Chambers and
Dean 1998) ( see Figures 3-6). Most notable was the growth recorded in rural areas adjacent
to Calgary where the population increased by 81.7% (Chambers and Dean 1998). Similarly,
the American rural West attracted one-third of the United States’ non-metro growth, adding
one million people in seven years (Cromartie and Wardwell 1999). This growth is rapidly
transforming the rural landscape from what was once characterized by low population
densities, large ranching operations, and economies based on resource extraction industries
(Hansen et al. 2002, Walsh 1998) into the “New West” that is characterized by recreation
and amenity-based economies, retirement communities, and landscapes spotted with hobby
farms, country estates and acreage subdivisions (Shumway and Otterstrom 2001; Davis,
Nelson and Dueker 1994).
34
Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Residential expansion
Accompanied with population growth is the increased pressure for residential development.
In Alberta, the most intense pressure for new residential development also occurred in
regions adjacent to urban areas, which most notably has occurred along Highway 2 (along
the Calgary to Edmonton corridor and extending south to Fort McLeod), around the
periphery of Calgary and Edmonton, and along the Calgary to Canmore corridor (Resource
Planning Group 2002) (see Figures 3-6). Alberta Agriculture, Food, and Rural Development
(Resource Planning Group 2002) surveyed rural municipalities to determine the amount of
farmland subdivision and agricultural land conversion occurring in Alberta. In 90% of the
municipalities surveyed, almost three-quarters of the subdivided farmland has been
converted to country residential development (Resources Planning Group 2002). For
example, in the Municipal District of Rockyview a total of 1871.6 ha of farmland have been
taken out of agricultural production, of which 92.2% was converted to residential uses
(Resource Planning Group 2002). Resulting from rural population growth and the increasing
demand for development in Alberta, country residential development has been identified as
the main cause of agricultural land conversion in the province (Resource Planning Group
2002).
Factors Influencing Rural Migration
In the 1970s, survey results began to indicate that environmental quality and pace of life
were determining factors in urban to rural migration; a trend, which was initially surprising
since it was long believed that rural areas held disadvantages compared to urban areas
(Rudzitis 1999). This finding was also surprising since it conflicted with the major
assumptions of migration theory, which suggests that people move because of employment
and income opportunities (Rudzitis 1999). The increasing significance of non-economic
factors in household relocation is associated with post-industrial, cultural, and technological
changes that have occurred in North America (Chambers and Deans 1998; Dahms and
McComb 1999; Resource Planning Group 2002; Nelson and Dueker 1990; Davies and
Yeates 1991; Nelson and Sanchez 1997). Post-industrial influences include the
decentralization of employment, more flexible work schedules (Nelson and Sanchez 1997),
and advances in communication technology (Chambers and Deans 1998). The
35
Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
decentralization of employment from urban centres to suburban areas is extending the
“commuting shed” of urban areas further into surrounding rural environments (Nelson and
Dueker 1990). Also, more flexible work schedules enable commuters to travel to the
workplace at off-peak times (Nelson and Sanchez 1997), to work at home, or reduce their
number of daily commutes (Davis 1993). Our analysis (see Figure 14 through 16) indicated
that the location of structures (residences) is influenced by proximity to roads and urban
centres, a probable reflection of people’s needs for commuting and access to amenities.
The growth in telecommunications is also contributing to rural migration as it further
reduces the importance of the “distance factor” to the workplace (Dahms and McComb
1999). Advancements in communications technology are enabling highly skilled workers to
work from home and reside in locations that may extent to areas within a half days drive to
the nearest commercial centre (Nelson and Dueker 1990; Chambers and Deans 1998). In
addition to changes in the workplace, cultural changes are also influencing the migration of
households into rural areas. These cultural influences are associated with the growing
dissatisfaction of urban/suburban qualities and the desire for a different quality of life
associated with rural living (Nelson and Sanchez 1997). In terms of technological influences,
increased transportation and services into rural areas have increased the accessibility of these
areas and have enabled people to enjoy the modern comforts of urban living in more remote
rural areas (Resource Planning Group 2002; Nelson 1992).
Additional factors influencing rural residential expansion are the perceived qualities and
amenities associated with a new location and may include the perception of a quality
environment, a good place to raise children, a better overall quality of life (Gersh 1995;
Beyers and Nelson 2000, and the perception of rurality and a rural lifestyle (Dahms and
McComb 1999). In addition to these perceptions, scenic amenities, the desire to live a
“Jeffersonian lifestyle”, and the desire to live near open space and recreational opportunities
(Nelson and Dueker 1990; Nelson 1992) are also identified as pull factors influencing rural
migration.
36
Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
There also seems to be a greater emphasis on the “pull” factors of environmental quality and
recreational opportunities rather than traditional economic motivations (job, income)
(Rudzitis 1999; Vias 1999). One study from the U.S. indicated that in the 1990s, national
park counties grew at a higher rate than the national average. However, this growth was less
than half the rate of migration growth in other recreation counties (Beale and Johnson 2002).
Growth in non-metro recreation counties appears to be concentrating in isolated areas that
are within a one hour drive to outdoor activities such as hiking, hunting, fishing (Rasker
1998; and Hansen et al. 2002). Our analysis resulted in protected areas as an important
variable in predicting a structure (residence) on the landscape, supporting the trend to live
near open spaces and recreational opportunities. In addition, it is likely that a significant
proportion of these structures are second homes and recreational properties.
Although increased settlement in more isolated regions in the Rocky Mountain West is
occurring, population density gradients indicate that there is a desire for people to live in
rural locations that allow them to maintain ties to urban centres (Booth 1999). Booth (1999)
studied the importance of access to large regional metropolitan areas as a determinant in
rural location choice for Mountain West counties. This study determined that distance to
the metro centre does have a role in location choice and that the numbers of interstates,
presence of universities or colleges, as well as the proportions of county land allocated to
national parks, were all found to be statistically significant determinants of population
density (Booth 1999). These results parallel those found in our analysis that indicate
proximity to urban centres, roads (interstates), and protected areas are important factors in
predicting structures on the landscape in SW Alberta.
Implications of Rural Residential Development
The trends outlined in this report parallel similar trends throughout the Canadian and
American West. The following discussion, focused on the implications of rural residential
expansion, is a compilation of results from other studies addressing rural residential
expansion.
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Population change in the rural West is acting as an “instigator” for a wide range of social,
cultural, environmental, and economic transformations (Shumway and Otterstrom 2001).
These transformations are especially evident in the Rocky Mountain West where rapid
expansion of commercial and residential development has been occurring (Theobald,
Gosnell, and Riesbame 1996). Although the physical landscape and socio-cultural
community alterations associated with rural residential development are beginning to be
noted, the cumulative impact of these changes is not well understood.
Landscape Transformations
The subdivision of farm and ranchland into residential development alters the physical
characteristics of the landscape. The increase in buildings, roads, fences, and other human
made anthropogenic structures is consuming and fragmenting productive land while also
contributing to the loss of open space and scenic amenities (Knight, Wallace, and Riesbame
1995; Inman et al. 2002; Walsh 1998). Agricultural land consumed by residential
development results in the permanent loss of rangeland (Grassland Conservation Council
2001) and productive farmland. The loss of productive farmland is common around the
periphery of urban areas where farms are particularly productive (Berton 2002).
Ecological Implications
The new wave of population growth and housing development in the Rocky Mountain West
comes with an environmental price tag (Baron, Theobald, and Fagre 2000). The potential
impacts of unplanned growth can cause habitat alteration, destruction, fragmentation, the
blocking of wildlife movement corridors, and increased interaction between wildlife and
humans (Knight, Wallace, and Riesbame 1995; Johnson 2000). Rural residential
development can also result in the spread of noxious weeds and exotic species (Knight,
Wallace, and Riesbame 1995), increase point and non-point source air and water pollution
(Johnson 2000), and can cause landscape alterations impeding ecological processes such as
water and fire (Grasslands Conservation Council 2001, Johnson 2000). The Grasslands
Conservation Council (2001) also noted the increase in soil erosion, increase in abusive
recreation (such as ATVs), decrease in landscape connectivity, and the decrease in the
availability of forage land.
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Adding to the problems associated with subdivision and development on ranchlands, a
common problem with new “ranchette” owners is their lack of knowledge of farm
operations and rangeland management (Sengupta and Osgood 2003). This lack of
knowledge can lead to overgrazing and degradation of the land resource, which is often
caused by grazing horses on parcels too small to support the number of animals (Sengupta
and Osgood 2003). In addition, these new landowners may have a low tolerance of existing
agricultural practices (especially related to smell, noise, dust and the presence of animals) that
lead to conflicts.
The ecological problems associated with the implementation of human structures (housing
and roads) can have direct impacts on the availability of habitat and the ability of wildlife
species to access habitat areas. The removal or fragmentation of movement corridors
between habitat areas can affect species’ dispersal to meet their habitat needs (Soule 1991).
Despite the landscape alterations associated with agricultural activities, the openness of these
landscapes allows for species movement between habitat areas, if the species does not have
overly-specific cover requirements (Merriam 1988). In addition to the potential isolation of
habitat areas and the fragmentation of movement corridors, individual residential structures
can further impact sensitive species (Theobald, Gosnell, and Riesbame 1996). The
disturbance zone around individual buildings is not well understood. However, one study
determined that this zone could extend up to 900 metres from an individual house
(Theobald, Gosnell, and Riesbame 1996). Therefore, even if there are quality habitat areas
available, a sensitive species may not choose to utilize these resources due to the disturbance
created by adjacent buildings (habitat effectiveness). One of the growing concerns
associated with the loss, fragmentation, and degradation of habitat is the impact on
biodiversity, especially in areas adjacent to public land or environmentally sensitive areas
(Knight, Wallace, Riesbame 1995).
In the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, increasing intensity of land use has affected many
native species in and around public lands due to the spatial distribution of residential
development (Johnson 2000). The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is an important region
39
Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
for a variety of species such as the grizzly bear and represents one of the largest and most
intact ecosystems in the lower 48 states (Johnson 2000). Within this region, grizzly bear
recovery may be impeded by rural residential development that is threatening currently
utilized and also potential habitat on private land (Johnson 2000). Furthermore, rural
residential development is threatening important winter range and nesting areas on private
land that provide habitat for a diversity of species (Johnson 2000). Therefore, private land
throughout the GYE is an integral component of the ecosystem and plays an important role
in supporting the habitat needs of native biodiversity. Overall, development on private land
can cause ecological impacts extending large distances beyond the immediate development
site (Beale and Johnson 2002), which can negatively affect habitat, ecological processes,
landscape condition, and biodiversity. Furthermore, human developments are often
concentrated in so-called `biological hotspots` (lower elevations with good soils and
moderate climate). In the GYE, development on the relatively small area (28% of the GYE)
of private lands has a disproportionate effect on biodiversity due to the location of the
development (Parmenter et al. 2003).
Socio-Cultural Transformations
New social stresses are emerging in rural communities and small resort towns from the
influx of affluent vacationers, second homeowners, and additional permanent residents.
These problems have been identified most prominently as the loss of rural community
character and overall quality of life (Theobald, Gosnell, and Riesbame 1996; Ryan 2002).
Lifestyle conflicts between new residents and long-term ranchers are contributing to the loss
of community character and quality of life (Inman et al. 2002). Increased traffic and noise
(Ryan 2002) and the perceived invasion of urban lifestyles into rural settings are thought to
be decreasing the rural character of the community (Schmidt 2003).
Rural Economic Transformation
The economy of the rural West is growing and diversifying despite the notable declines in
traditional economic sectors (Hansen et al.2002; Booth 1999). Changes in economic
dependence indicate an economic transformation based on new sources of income (Booth
1999) and a move away from viewing natural resources as raw materials (Rasker 1998).
40
Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Natural resources in rural communities are now being viewed as natural amenities and a
means to attract new industries, people, and income into areas that were once dominated by
agriculture and mining (Rasker 1998; Rasker and Hansen 2000).
Impact on agricultural lands
The growth of residential development in Canada’s rural landscape is consuming high quality
productive land (Statistics Canada 2001) and is threatening the loss and fragmentation of
farm and ranchland (Resource Planning Group (2002). Between 1971 and 1996, 16% of
Canada’s total dependable agricultural land was converted to urban uses creating a greater
demand for agricultural production on marginal or poorer quality land (Statistics Canada
2001).
In Alberta, agricultural activity is an important component of the province’s economy. In
1998, agriculture contributed $4.1 billion to Alberta’s gross domestic product (Resource
Planning Group 2002). Despite the economic importance of agricultural activities, 6.5
million acres of agricultural land was lost to other uses between 1951 and 1986. Between
1966 and 1981, 57% of the land converted to human uses was considered prime farmland
(Resource Planning Group 2002). The conversion of agricultural productive land is
predicted to continue since Alberta is expected to experience one of the fastest rates of
population growth over the next few years (Resources Planning Group 2002). Economic
expansion is expected to coincide with this population growth, which will likely increase the
financial capability of people to locate beyond urban centres and build new residences in the
rural landscape (Resource Planning Group 2002).
Conclusion Land use change models are important tools for integrated environmental management
(Verburg et al. 2002). Results from this analysis can be used to help identify future hot spots
or critical locations in the face of landscape change. Once hot spots are identified, more
detailed land use change analyses at the local level can be conducted. As detailed information
related to biodiversity, connectivity and core habitats becomes available, this information can
be compared to the results from this study to identify potential conflict areas. The data and
41
Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
methods developed in the current study can be used as a solid foundation from which to
launch further applied research for land-use planning.
As human land use in southwestern Alberta, and more regionally within the Crown of the
Continent intensifies, residential expansion will continue to increase. The need to understand
current and future residential trends will be instrumental in ensuring sustainable land use
planning. The data layers resulting from this project may be used to assist in regional
planning issues and conservation programs, especially when used in a cumulative effects
analysis. Currently, information regarding human residential expansion is only available for
individual jurisdictions. This project allows the integration of information across
southwestern Alberta and allows the extent and distribution of residential development to be
compared to key landscape variables.
42
Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Verburg, P.H., Soepboer, W., Veldkamp, A., Limpiada, R. and V. Espaldon. 2002. Modeling the spatial dynamics of regional land use: The CLUE-S Model. Environmental Management. Vol. 30, No.3: 391-405.
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Appendix 1
Number of each type of structure for each
municipal district Total Percent
Type of Structure Rock
yview
Foot
hills
Pinc
her
Cree
k
Ranc
hlan
d
Card
ston
Co
unty
Will
ow
Cree
k
Residential 13806 10210 940 80 1548 2066 28650 88.86
Summer Residential 194 188 81 29 49 18 559 1.73Commercial
Accommodation 4 5 1 0 1 0 11 0.00Retail/Service 96 50 8 0 14 10 178 0.55
Service Station 4 3 0 0 2 1 10 0.00Agriculture 858 1101 30 3 139 161 2292 7.10
Other 122 80 5 7 71 269 554 1.72TOTAL 32254
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
Appendix 2 Residential 1. Four Seasons Code Description
001 Single Family-All Ages 002 Single Family- < 1940 003 Single Family- >1940 004 Single Family- > 1970 005 Single Family- >1980 008 Single Family- Cedar/Log 040 Single Wide Mobile Homes 045 Double Wide Mobile Homes 048 Mobile Home Parks 060 Duplex Housing 061 Fourplex Housing 070 Multiple Housing- Side by Side 071 Multiple Housing- Back to Back
2. Summer Code Description
050 Summer Cottages 052 Summer Cottages- Cedar/Log
3.Commercial 1. Accommodation Code Description
088 Rooming Houses 090 Low Rise Apartments 100 High Rise Apartments 150 Motels- Side by Side Units 151 Motels- Back to Back Units 200 Hotels 205 Motor Hotels 206 Motor Hotel Room Sections
2. Retail/Service Code Description
300 Stores 305 Convenience Stores 310 Strip Shopping Centres 312 Mall Shopping Centres
400 Restaurants 405 Fast Food Restaurants 430 Parkades 440 Theatre Lobbies 445 Theatre Auditoriums 450 Multiple Theatres 490 Banks 3. Service Stations Code Description
750 Service Station- Sales Area 751 Service Station- Bays 760 Service Station- Kiosks 762 Service Station- Canopies 770 Bulk Oil Warehouses 775 Bulk Oil Offices
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Spatial Analysis of Rural Residential Expansion in south-western Alberta Prepared by the Miistakis Institute for the Rockies
4. Agricultural Services Code Description
500 Warehouses 505 Warehouses/Metal Clad 510 Sales Warehouses 520 Bag Fertilizer Warehouses 521 Bulk & Bag Fertilizer Warehouses 522 Bulk Elevator Fertilizer Warehouses 600 Quonset Metal Warehouses 605 Agro Metal Warehouses 610 Self Framing Metal Warehouses 615 Rigid Frame Metal Warehouses 620 Modular Rigid Frame Metal Warehouses 622 Rigid Frame Metal Warehouses Side Extension 630 Archrib Warehouses 850 Grain Elevators/Composite Grain Elevators 852 Twin Elevators 855 Cribbed Annexes 856 Balloon or Frame Annexes 857 Steel Bin Annex 860 Grain Elevator Offices
5. Other Code Description
350 Offices 390 Skywalk Pedways 391 Underground Pedways 395 Mechanical Penthouses 870 Relocatable Offices 875 Relocatable Communication Equipment Buildings 876 Relocatable Metal Oilfield Buildings 880 Frame and Fabric Buildings 881 Air-Supported Buildings 882 Post-Tension Buildings 890 Quonset Type Greenhouses 891 Bowrib Type Greenhouses 892 Gable Type Greenhouses 894 Solariums