Glossary

Exurbia: A spatial pattern of settlement that differs from suburbia in that it is located farther from urban centers and features a different mix of land uses and population (Exurban Exchange Program, n.d.). Exurbia is characterized by low population density, high population growth, and commuting to urbanized areas for work.  It is often associated with rural gentrification, as people willing to commute long distances move to rural places, raising the cost of living there while also transforming those places socially (Berube, Singer Wilson, & Frey, 2006; Salamon 2003a; Salamon 2003b). (Source: Sloan Work and Family Research Network)

Fire-Return Interval: The number of years between two successive fire events at a specific site or an area of a specified size. (Source: National Park Service)

Photovoltis: arrays of cells containing a material that converts solar radiation into direct current electricity. (Source: Wikipedia)

Water diversion: Changing the natural flow of water to another location by using dams, canals, or pipelines. (Source: Colorado State University Extension: Glossary of Water Terminology by R. Waskom and M. Neibauer  (3/08))

Xeriscape: The use of plant materials and practices that minimizes landscaping water use; usually native plants; environmentally friendly form of landscaping. The term "xeriscape" was copyrighted by Denver Water in 1981. (Source: Colorado State University Extension: Glossary of Water Terminology by R. Waskom and M. Neibauer  (3/08))