“Growing too fast:” Local stakeholders speak out about growth and its consequences for community well-being in the urban–rural interface

Urban growth and development patterns have been implicated in the loss of ecosystem functioning, increased economic burdens on communities, and impacts to residents’ human health. However, the effects of growth and development on the functioning of social systems are less understood. In this paper we present the findings of an interpretive study investigating two primary questions: (1) How do diverse stakeholders living and working in the urban–rural interface describe and characterize change in their communities? and (2) What are stakeholders’ perceptions of urban growth consequences in their communities? 30 key informant interviews were conducted with stakeholders in two communities within the Lower Kaskaskia River watershed, Illinois. Community stakeholders, including business representatives, agricultural producers, community decision-makers, educators and natural resource professionals living and working at the urban–rural interface, provided rich insider perspectives on urban growth and its consequences for quality of life in their communities. Qualitative data analysis uncovered both shared and contested characterizations of change in the communities, such as loss of farmland, a more vital community economy, the decay of a sense of community, and cultural conflict. The study has implications for resource professionals, community planners and local actors by identifying potential urban growth consequences on residents’ sense of place and community identity and offering a framework for monitoring the sociocultural impacts of land use change.

► We explored local stakeholder characterizations of urban growth's consequences.
► Perceptions converged around consequences for farmland and ecosystem protection.
► Perceptions diverged around urban growth's economic implications.
► The loss of community identity and social cohesion were particular concerns.
► Social consequences should be monitored alongside ecological and economic impacts.