Ecological Effects of Urban Sprawl
Development plans that promote sprawl have a number of consequences for local ecosystems (Luther 2005). Many of these consequences will affect any development in the wildland-urban interface.
Destruction of wildlife habitat.
Introduction of non-native invasive plants and animals into natural areas.
Increased human and pet exposure to diseases such as rabies and Lyme disease.
Increased risks of water pollution from oil and gasoline washing off paved surfaces and from pesticides, lawn fertilizers, and other chemicals.
Increased potential for flooding and soil erosion due to impervious surfaces such as concrete or pavement.
Decrease in groundwater for wells and irrigation caused by abundance of impervious surfaces.
Increased risk to life and property from wildfires.