Parachute Subdivisions- A Proposed Term

[Carter Rila]

Parachute Subdivision- A Proposed Term
 
A common settlement pattern is found in the Piedmont of Maryland. And probably elsewhere in the Appalachian states where the land division is based on the old metes and bounds system. In the Public Land Survey states the settlements are laid out in conformance with the grid.
These scattered subdivisions were constructed before the advent of county level zoning and are dependent on wells and septic systems. Thus the soil must perk for them to be feasible. They are found on ridges in areas where farming is not feasible.
The analogy is to the airborne parachutes drops particularly those in Normandy where the parachutists were widely scattered due to heavy flak and some were miles from their intended drop zone.
Everyone I have used this term with has immediately grasped the concept with few words of explanation.
 
Carter Rila

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