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No doubt about it, more and more people like calling North Carolina home. Last year alone, in-state migration added 181,000 new residents.

Compared to most of the nation, we're on a fast track. The state is the fourth-fastest in growth nationwide, according to the Census Bureau, and outpaces its East Coast neighbors.

But with growth can come problems. State and local governments must prepare to deal with increasing demands for services, based on accurate profiles of newcomers and their needs.

For example, safeguards are necessary to protect diminishing natural resources, including water supplies. During this decade's persistent drought, some communities haven't been able to meet their basic water needs. The state must work with them to formulate a fair plan assuring that those requirements are met well before the next crisis looms.

And without sufficient planning and zoning initiatives, high-growth areas statewide run the risks of more urban sprawl, road-choking traffic and air pollution. Privately owned energy companies also will face mounting demands on their generating capacities. The challenge is staying ahead of an ever-changing curve.

While Mecklenburg, Wake and Union counties lead in population growth, the Triad, buoyed by the FedEx factor, stands to attract its fair share of new residents. An expanding local transportation network boasting decent jobs is fast replacing traditional manufacturing as our economic bedrock.

Even during a lingering recession, the state continues to earn high marks as a good place for businesses to relocate. However, the largesse isn't spread evenly. Industry recruiters must find how to make rural areas with sometimes outdated infrastructure more competitive with urban centers.

Knowing who is coming here and why can be helpful. For younger families and immigrants, job availability is the primary motivator. But the state's mild climate, central East Coast location and comparatively low housing costs also attract a growing number of baby boomers. Yet as boomers age, the state's medical care network will be severely tested. In the future, health care will play an even greater role.

Success breeds success. Nothing like positive testimonials to keep the moving vans on the road. Even so, relapses can happen. Growth rates in Florida, Nevada and California, all beset by a decline in the real estate market, have fallen off.

Despite the hype, bigger may not always mean better. Quality of life shouldn't be sacrificed for the sake of unbridled growth and bragging rights.

Welcome the newcomers, but make sure we're ready for them before they get here.