Paul Rubin is an expert consultant in Hydrology, Geology, Hydrogeology, and Karst.

Community Character
& Land Use Planning

Existing land use over decades establishes the nature and character of a community (agricultural, rural residential, urban, commercial). Land use planning provides a tool to maintain or change existing use patterns, as well as a means to protect critical areas. When development proposals are inconsistent with existing community character and must be challenged before Planning Boards or other agencies, HydroQuest can help.

Wetland Protection & Ecotourism

Questions We Can Answer

What are the historic land uses surrounding a proposed development?
Is a proposed project compatible with existing and zoned land uses?
Is a proposed project consistent with the existing community character?
Can you help our town develop or update our Comprehensive Plan?
What steps should our town take to protect our water resources?
Should our town permit sand and gravel mining within a major aquifer?
How can we increase ecotourism through sound land use planning?

Services Include

Analysis and Documentation of Community Character Over Time
Analysis, Documentation, and Graphic Presentation of Land Use
Assessment of Land Use Within Geologic and Hydrologic Constraints
Evaluation of Actions Needed to Protect Water Resources
Determination of Best Land Use
Comprehensive Planning Based on Geologic and Hydrologic Resources
Strategy Development to Promote Ecotourism

Example Work Project

Glamping has become a buzz word for well-to-do individuals seeking a glorified "camping" experience in an outdoor setting. A current work project sought to evaluate whether a large-scale glamping venture is consistent with existing community character in a rural setting established over a century. The proposed development should more aptly be considered as a permanent housing project with the exception of large "tent-like" outer roof and wall material over luxury queen and king-sized beds, floors, furnishings, bathrooms, electricity, and amenities which make the proposed 100 individual "tents" analogous to resort cabins or boutique hotel rooms, albeit located amidst trees. Review of the proposed project shows that it would double the existing living density within a small area and is inconsistent with the existing community character.