Hyper-extractive counties in the U.S.: A coupled-systems approach

► We take a coupled-systems approach to classify rural counties in the U.S. ► Conduct a hot spot and factor analysis on 35 human and natural systems variables. ► Find three hyper-extractive coupled-systems based on water exploitation, mining, and forestry and fishing. ► Find ten other coupled-systems based on demographics, agriculture, industry, and scenic amenities. ► Coupled-systems approach highlights the issues with land-use patterns and sustainability in U.S.