Theses and Dissertations Collection

Rural gentrification is a phenomenon that has been documented in regions around the world, such as Great Britain, rural Russia, and resort communities of the American West. This paper explores the occurrence of rural gentrification in Kootenai County in northern Idaho. It seeks to define ‘rural gentrification’ from the bioregional perspective and to better understand the conflicts and benefits that occur as part of the rural gentrification process. The research involved interviews with local professionals and residents to gain a deeper understanding of what is occurring in Kootenai County. It attempts to identify both positive and negative impacts to the region, in comparison to other locations, and how those continue to shape North Idaho and how this area can use alternative tools to addressing planning in the rural parts of the county.