Comparing states with and without growth management analysis based on indicators with policy implications comment

In a recent volume of this journal, Nelson (Land Use Policy 16 (1999) 121) defines and computes several statewide indicators designed to evaluate the effectiveness of growth management efforts in Oregon and Florida. Two indicators are intended to measure how well states have contained urban sprawl and preserved farmland. They are computed using US Census of Population and US Census of Agriculture data. In this comment, I highlight potential problems associated with using these data to evaluate urban sprawl and farmland preservation, and recompute Nelson's indicators using alternative land use data. Differences and similarities between my indicators and those computed by Nelson are discussed.