Chapter 10: The Southern Coastlands on The Subtropical Margin

This chapter discusses the Southern Coastlands. This region shares a border with Mexico. It is a very important region because of its proximity to another country, which has aided trade for the United States.

The region is humid and is a place that attracts many people to it. Florida is the main destination. It is a very important region in the United States because it has a long growing season, which is imperative for agriculture. According to the text, "Across almost all of the Southern Coastlands, the growing season lasts at least 9 months. But in much of the region, its average exceeds 10 months" (191). An added benefit is the precipitation level. However, soil conditions are a lot more variable than climatic conditions.

Seattle is similar to this region in its abundance of precipitation. However, contrary to popular belief, Seattle does not have as much rain as it is believed to have. It rains, but it does not rain more than certain parts of Texas, for example.

According to http://www.seattle.gov/dpd/Planning/UrbanAgriculture/Overview/,

"Urban agriculture is a type of infill development that fits into growth strategy for Seattle and the region, by adding a missing element of livable communities and stimulating small-scale economic development. There is a tremendous opportunity to develop local sources of healthy food by turning existing lawn and garden space into productive agricultural plots. Small-scale urban agriculture can help create livable, walkable and sustainable communities, and implement City goals of sustainability and economic development."

Seattle's political leaders and communities are invested in the city's agricultural development, especially since it is a fast-growing city. Seattle is one of the few large, metropolitan cities in the Pacific Northwest. Seattle is also known as the "Emerald City," which is something Seattleites are very proud to be known for. As a result, people in Seattle make efforts to maintain the attractiveness of the city, while still being faithful to nature.