Masters Theses

Date of Award

12-1996

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Planning

Major Professor

Cecilia Zanetta

Abstract

This study examines the effects of the regulatory and decision-making processes on local environmental protection by exploring the case study of the Turkey Creek Wetlands, a development/environmental decision in Knoxville, Tennessee. This case study involves the proposal for a road through the largest, high quality wetland in Knox County, which is located in a congested, high-growth area of the county. The primary influences on the case study from the regulatory process are a lack of responsibility at the local level, which results in a lack of public awareness that the decision was made, as well as a lack of potential local compromise options. The local power issues which were prominent in the study were in the use of power which occurred before the formal decision-making process which resulted in a non- decision, a lack of information to the public, and the acceptance of a project without solid facts. Controversies such as the Turkey Creek Wetlands can be minimized through local responsibility in environmental planning, and other possible measures of local responsibility.

Files over 3MB may be slow to open. For best results, right-click and select "save as..."

Share

COinS