Rural Development & Conservation

Priority Goal

Evaluate and maximize the impact of infrastructure investments in fostering economic growth, improving quality of life, and ensuring ecological sustainability in geographically rural regions of the State.

Why This Matters

This priority establishes an evidence base for comprehensive rural development, aligning investment with economic growth, community well-being, and environmental stewardship. Tennessee seeks to understand which infrastructure investments yield the highest returns and how to balance growth with conservation.

Research Questions

a. Infrastructure Investment Returns

Which types of state infrastructure investments have yielded the highest returns in terms of economic growth and quality of life in rural regions of Tennessee?

b. Investment Strategy

What has been the comparative impact of 'big push' investments versus incremental growth strategies in rural counties, and which sectors yield the most significant multiplier effects when targeted for development?

c. Sustainability Frameworks

What indicators, frameworks, and methods can rural communities use to assess and balance their growth and environmental conservation to ensure long-term economic and ecological sustainability?

d. Broadband Access Expansion

How have recent state policy changes and investments increased access to internet services, and who (demographics) have benefited most from expanded access?

e. Agricultural Land Preservation

How effective are state programs and policies (e.g., PACE, TAEP) at mitigating the negative economic and cultural impacts of agricultural land loss?

f. Zoning Policy Impacts

How do specific zoning policies contribute to agricultural land loss in Tennessee, and what changes could mitigate this trend while balancing housing and development needs? How does converting agricultural land into suburban developments impact local communities, particularly in terms of economic and social well-being outcomes?

g. Freshwater Resource Management

What is the role of population growth, development patterns, agricultural methods, pollution, and industry growth in the availability of freshwater resources? What efforts can the state take to mitigate any negative effects of these trends to ensure all residents have access to fresh water while preserving the state's economic vitality?

h. Water Quality Best Practices

What is the influence of best management practices (BMP) on water quality in Tennessee? What role can the state have in working with environmental and industry groups to promote the use of these best practices?

i. Waste Management & Landfill Capacity

What role can state government play to prolong landfill capacity through effective waste diversion methods (recycling, composting, agricultural/industrial byproducts, etc.)? How can rural and/or distressed county governments tap into economies of scale (interlocal agreements/partnerships) to assist with high-cost problem wastes (scrap tires) and prevent illegal dumping? How will the treatment/mitigation of emerging contaminant pollution (PFAS, etc.) impact rural counties?