Description
Book SynopsisDiscusses the less-regulatory approaches to land-use management, analyzing the collective value of such place-based planning approaches as land trusts, open-space ballot measures, watershed conservancies, and ecoregional plans. This book appraises these trends from physical, social, economic, civic, and environmental justice perspectives.
Trade ReviewHands down the best new-century book on all aspects of contemporary American land-use planning, politics, practicalities, perils, and prospects. Among many other great things, Mason offers a wide and original set of deep case studies, excellent comparative thinking, accessible theory, a knack for explaining hugely complex situations, a superb feel for both historical and current reality, and a tone of clear-eyed forward-looking optimism. Masterly—and encouraging too. -- Frank Popper, professor, Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, Rutgers University
Professor Mason captures the essence of today's environmentalism through the smart use of techniques available in our system of local land use controls. He makes a compelling argument that this place-based approach to land management holds the best political promise for continuing to strive for sustainable development and addressing climate change. The unevenness of the 'Quieter Revolution' resulting from a decentralized policy approach is precisely what allows place-based planning to effectively address issues of environmental injustice and to counter 'bigger picture' arguments lobbed by the wise-use and property rights movements. This is a must-read about the current politics and the policies behind the delicate balance between land development and land conservation. -- Patricia E. Salkin, Associate Dean and Director, Government Law Center of Albany Law School
This timely book rightly focuses on innovations in land use planning in cities and regions where the public and private sectors are working together to create better communities. Robert Mason convincingly explores both the achievements and obstacles of place-based planning. This 'Quieter Revolution' of local planning partnerships will bear a large responsibility for America's environment and quality of life in the coming decades. -- Tom Daniels, Professor of City and Regional Planning, University of Pennsylvania
Robert J. Mason has done us a favor by informing us of the many "below the radar screen" ways in which important landscapes can be preserved despite limitations in state planning and regulatory authority and often in spite of local governments' unwillingness to exercise their authority. He presents a rich tapestry of public, private, and non-profit tools and techniques that are used to preserve perhaps millions of acres of land each year from development. Collaborative Land-Use Management is an important contribution to the preservation, urban planning, and landscape planning literature. -- Arthur C. Nelson PhD, FAICP, director, Metropolitan Institute at Virginia Tech
The concepts and discussion that Mason raises are of wider relevance and interest. -- Ralph Hamann * Environment *
Rob Mason is on to something . . . and something important! Quietly and without much fanfare, a new phase in the long struggle for sound land-use planning and management has been occurring across the nation. This book provides the first comprehensive analysis and critique of the movement. It is an outstanding contribution. -- Mark B. Lapping, Distinguished Professor, Edmund S. Muskie School of Public Service, University of Southern Maine
A very good book for presenting the background on the status of collaborative planning....Highly recommended. * CHOICE *
Mason has given us something of a handbook for the near future of environmentalism in the United States....A century from now, the book will still be relevant. * Professional Geographer, February 2009 *
Table of ContentsChapter 1 Introducing the Quieter Revolution Chapter 2 Lead-up to the Revolution Chapter 3 The Politics of Place Chapter 4 Protecting Regional Landscapes Chapter 5 Slowing Sprawl, Saving Places Chapter 6 Let a Thousand Local Initiatives Bloom Chapter 7 Counterrevolutionaries Chapter 8 Evaluating the Revolution Chapter 9 A Quieter Future?
