<p> Economic development has become a key issue in the United States. The recruitment and retention of public and private development is a pivotal strategy for increasing the economic prosperity of a region or nation as well as its inhabitants. While all segments of the nation benefit from economic development, the importance of this issue is paramount to the rural areas where income, living conditions, and educational levels may not mirror those of their urban counter part. As a result, rural regions are particularly interested in attracting both public and private investments to improve their economy, increase their tax base, and increase the standard of living for those residents living in a given region. </p><p> This project utilizes GIS siting analysis models to explore potential areas for economic development in the rural area of Fulton County. In this project, ten variables were analyzed to determine suitable sites for economic development based on physical variables, transportation variables, and public utility infrastructure variables. These variables were selected based on a review of relevant literature based on economic development in rural areas. Site suitability maps were developed using a multi-criteria decision making model and weighting each variable with respect to cost incurred to the taxpaying public. The final map displays multiple areas of high suitability for light industrial development based on an analysis of these factors as they relate to Fulton County.</p>

<p> Pompeii suffered a famous volcanic disaster in 79 AD. This led to a tremendous loss of life. This thesis examines that loss of life and the geography of death left behind by the eruption. Where did the citizens of Pompeii die, and how could they have avoided their fate? These are issues that are examined through geographic methodologies and the use of GIS. The results indicate a people that could have been spared with proper hazards management, and one that shows through mapping the large loss of life that accompanied one of history's most famous volcanic eruptions.</p>