For this assignment I focused locally on Cleveland, VA. Cleveland is located within the Clinch River watershed and where the river flows immediately through the community. Below is a FEMA that outlines the flood hazard zone. Unfortunately, it is clear that a majority of the downtown area falls within this zone, complicating redevelopment efforts. For example, it is often complicated or financially prohibitive to get flood insurance on downtown buildings. Additionally, many of the dilapidated buildings that need renovation are in their present state because of persistent flooding.
The second map below shows the various soil types that are found in and around Cleveland. The map was created in ArcGIS using data from the USGS soil survey. I know less about soil types and soil structure but it is, however, very clear where the river moves through the community. The thin slices of certain soil profiles that follow parallel to the river I could imagine being associated with various rock outcrops or barrens as they are known locally. These bluffs are home to unique flora and fauna that has been recognized at both the federal and state levels as being environmentally significant.
In general and after clicking around the soil map on USGS, the soil type description and land use match. Development is located in the flatter holler and river bottom, avoiding steep terrain and rocky bluffs. Local agriculture fields, such as hay crop or vegetable gardens, are also located in the less steep portions of the landscape. Livestock, on the other hand, can to some extent be located in areas where traditional farm equipment cannot get to. Sheep and goats do just fine in these less accessible area.
