Can someone please help me with solving this question in python, arcpy, or arcgis pro. I have a feature class (a polygon shapefile), please see the image. I want to, where Current_RE is NOT “Water”, merge contiguous polygons and polygons that are within 50m of one another (make patches of polygons), UNLESS they are separated by a polygon where Current_RE = “Water”. I mean, regardless the 50 meter distances, the patches on opposite sides of a major watercourse to be considered separate.
Check out the ArcGIS aggregate polygons tool. It should be able to do what you are looking for.