Geographic information systems and natural resource issues at the state level; Chapter 13

Abstract

The state of Illinois has an area of about 146,500 sq km and a population of approximately 11.5 million. Although deciduous and pine forests are found in the southern portion and along rivers and streams, most of the land area was originally tall grass prairie that has been converted to such agricultural crops as corn, sovbeans, orchards, and pastures. In certain regions, especially near Chicago, east St. Louis, and Peoria, substantial commercial and industrial development exists. Much of the state is underlain bv coal, and significant localized petroleum reserves have been identified. Thus, the state is populous, with a complicated commercial-industrial system superimposed on a matrix of largely human-altered ecosystems. Under these circumstances, it is not surprising that severe pressures have been placed on the natural resources of the state and that decisions about the utilization and conservation of these resources always involve diverse points of view.

Citation

Risser, P.G.; Iverson, L.R. 1989. Geographic information systems and natural resource issues at the state level; Chapter 13. In: Botkin, Daniel B.; Caswell, Margriet F.; Estes, John E.; Orio, Angelo A. Changing the global environment: perspectives on human involvement. San Diego, CA: Academic Press: 233-240.