Applications of land evaluation and site assessment (LESA) and a geographic information system (GIS) in East Park County, Wyoming

ABSTRACT:

Conversion of agricultural lands, particularly prime farmland and lands of statewide and local importance, to non-agricultural use is increasing. In Wyoming, where prime farmland is limited, this is of particular concern because loss of relatively small tracts of this high-valued agricultural land may have a significant impact upon the region's economy. Historically, land-use planning was done on an ad hoc or even on a reactionary basis, which did not always result in the optimal allocation of resources. Geographic information systems (GIS) combined with land evaluation and site assessment (LESA) enhances land-use planning by delivering a versatile and dynamic model to assist state policy and decision makers, county and local officials, landowners and interested citizens in making wise land management decisions. Objectives of this study were to integrate LESA methods and GIS to assess their use for land use planning in east Park County, Wyoming. Factors used in our study for calculating land evaluation scores included land capability classification, prime farmland determination and irrigated sugar beet yield. Site assessment factors consisted of distance from city limits, major roads and sewer lines. Maps were developed that displayed lands most suitable for agriculture within the study area. Study results were fairly consistent with a Park County Land Use Plan, suggesting the combination of LESA and GIS is a rapid, versatile and up-to-date approach to assist in land management decisions.