Economy
PROTECTED LANDS ENHANCE THE ECONOMY.
There is a large and growing body of peer-reviewed research that examines the relationship between natural amenities, land conservation, and local/regional economic well-being. Growing evidence shows that, on average, county economies with protected federal lands outperform those without protected federal lands. This is because public outdoor spaces increase a county’s ability to recruit entrepreneurs, attract skilled workforce across a range of industries, and retain higher rates of job growth. In addition, quality of life benefits that have been associated with public lands include open spaces and the draw of scenic vistas, attracting business seeking outdoor lifestyles and natural assets.
Protected lands help drive economies.
Across Colorado and the West, protected federal lands such as national parks, national monuments, and Wilderness are associated with higher rates of job growth. Headwaters Economics, an independent non-partisan research group found that from 1970 to 2010, western non-metropolitan counties with more than 30% federal protected land increased jobs by 345%. In comparison, non-metro counties with no protected federal lands employment only increased by 83%.
Protected lands are good for your pocket too.
Headwaters Economics also looked at the U.S. West’s 286 non-metro counties as a region, and found a meaningful relationship between the amount of protected public land and higher per capita income levels.
On average, western non-metro counties have a per capita income that is $436 higher for every 10,000 acres of protected federal lands within their boundaries. - “West Is Best: How Public Lands in the West Create a Competitive Economic Advantage”
"There are not many places where you can establish a successful business and still have the opportunity to get out in the afternoon for a hike or bike ride.“
—Crested Butte News, Letter to the Editor ‘Business Owners Talk Prosperity’
Protected landscapes are critical to the future success of small businesses and the growth of our local economy. Over 70 businesses endorsed the GPLI’s efforts because of they recognize the importance of public lands protections for the future of Gunnison County.
