Off-campus South Dakota State University users: To download campus access theses, please use the following link to log into our proxy server with your South Dakota State University ID and password.

Non-South Dakota State University users: Please talk to your librarian about requesting this thesis through interlibrary loan.

Document Type

Thesis - University Access Only

Award Date

2006

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department / School

Geography

First Advisor

Charles F. Gritzner

Abstract

A greater understanding of the process of selection and cultural integration of newly perceived resources is essential if we are to better comprehend present and future changes. in settlement patterns. In recent years, the landscape of South Dakota's Black Hills has undergone significant shifts in terms of population, residence patterns, and land values directly related to changes in resource perception. The portion of Custer County lying within the Black Hills, as delineated by the topography, flora, and fauna distinctive to that region, provides an excellent sample area in which to exhibit the ways changes in the ages, income levels, and land values all reflect the American culture's shift in preferences from extractive resources toward aesthetic environments (resources). The unique blend of federal lands, as well as recreational and aesthetic -resources, has combined to attract increasing in-migration, resulting in a rising median age of the population, and shrinking land parcel sizes. This preliminary information is of use to economic developers, public land managers, and state and local planning agencies to meet the current and future needs of the population and natural environment.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Cultural geography -- South Dakota -- Custer County.
Custer County (S.D.) -- Population.

Format

application/pdf

Number of Pages

63

Publisher

South Dakota State University

Rights

Copyright © 2006 the Author

Download

Share

COinS