Political feasibility as a factor in regional land use planning

Abstract

Although landscape architects have traditionally been concerned with the natural, economic, and social constraints to land use planning, recognition and understanding of political constraints have generally been neglected. One reason political feasibility has not been considered in the planning process is the lack of a convenient methodology to use as an analytical tool. A three-part typology is presented for use in analyzing the political feasibility of land use plans or projects. A scenario is then introduced to illustrate the practical application of the typology components and to demonstrate the general principles and methodology of political feasibility assessment. The situation examined is the introduction of a new grazing program on a national forest. Finally, an evaluation is made of the typology as to its general applicability as an analytical and decision-making tool in a variety of land use planning situations.