— Our latest newsletter contains research on transit equity analysis for Denver, CO, funding needs for Montana's outdoors, a custom socioeconomic tool for the US Fish & Wildlife Service, and more. Subscribe to our newsletter.
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Region 4
The Value of Montana’s Outdoors
— Montana's outdoors attracts people and talent, creating jobs and a high quality of life. The outdoors is essential to the state's future economic growth.
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Denver Transit Equity Analysis
— Identify where potential bus rapid transit corridors in the Denver, Colorado Metro Area are most likely to enhance mobility and equity.
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Funding Needs for Montana’s Outdoor Heritage
— Funding for Montana’s working lands, wildlife, and outdoor recreation is not keeping pace as population, visitation, and development pressures expand.
read moreof Funding Needs for Montana’s Outdoor HeritageThe Economic Impact of Snowmobiling in Utah
— In Utah, snowmobile use generates substantial economic activity that is concentrated in the population centers along the Wasatch Front and accrues largely to equipment, gasoline, and food retailers. Snowmobile registrations have been steady over the past two decades while the state’s population has grown, showing a decline in participation rates across the state.
read moreof The Economic Impact of Snowmobiling in UtahThe Economic Impact of Outdoor Recreation and the Whitefish Trail in Whitefish, Montana
— In Whitefish, Montana, outdoor recreation is the most important reason why residents stay and visitors come to the community. On the Whitefish Trail, 22,000 annual uses by visitors (30% of total use) generates $3.6 million in spending and supports 68 jobs.
read moreof The Economic Impact of Outdoor Recreation and the Whitefish Trail in Whitefish, MontanaTrail Usage and Value: A Helena, MT Case Study
— In Helena, Montana, an 80-mile hiking and mountain biking trail system attracts more than 63,000 trail users during the summer. Seven in 10 users are residents, but visitors who use the trail system account for $4 million in spending, support 60 jobs, and generate $185,000 in state and local taxes.
read moreof Trail Usage and Value: A Helena, MT Case StudyAssociation Between User-Generated Commuting Data and Population-Representative Active Commuting Surveillance Data—Four Cities, 2014-2015
— One of the primary concerns about data from GPS tracking apps is that the users tend to be more frequent recreators or commuters and therefore do not accurately represent the actual population. This paper shows that there is a strong correlation between the reported share of people in a neighborhood commuting by active transportation between the American Community Survey (a nationally representative survey) and Strava (a GPS tracking app).
read moreof Association Between User-Generated Commuting Data and Population-Representative Active Commuting Surveillance Data—Four Cities, 2014-2015Economic Impact and Importance of Snowmobiling in Idaho
— Across Idaho, the counties with the most snowmobile use and associated spending on trips are the counties with the best access to snowmobile trails. Spending on equipment, which is highly lucrative, happens mostly in population centers and not in the destination communities.
read moreof Economic Impact and Importance of Snowmobiling in IdahoEconomic Importance of Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation: An Analysis of Idaho Counties
— Off-highway vehicle users in Idaho take about 500,000 trips annually to counties away from their home towns and spend $186 million during these trips. The rural counties near population centers get the most visits, but spending on trips and equipment remains mostly in the larger cities.
read moreof Economic Importance of Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation: An Analysis of Idaho Counties
Commercial Activities on National Forests
— Updated: Headwaters Economics produced two interactive maps to show the range of commercial activities on National Forests at the Forest, state and forest region levels.
read moreof Commercial Activities on National Forests
Redesignating Bandelier National Monument as a National Park
— Study on the economic impacts of redesignating Bandelier National Monument as a National Park with case studies of other Monuments converted to National Parks.
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Mark Haggerty
Coal Transition in Montrose County, Colorado
— New fiscal and policy assessments help local leaders understand their exposure to declining revenue and policy barriers during a coal transition.
read moreof Coal Transition in Montrose County, Colorado
Montana’s Outdoor Recreation Economy
— A new report highlights the role of Montana’s outdoor recreation economy in spending, jobs, and economic diversification.
read moreof Montana’s Outdoor Recreation Economy
San Luis Valley Wildfire Risk
— Explore interactive maps of watersheds, wildfire, and the wildland-urban interface in Colorado’s San Luis Valley.
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Kelly Pohl
Wildfire, Watersheds, and the Wildland-Urban Interface in the San Luis Valley
— Partners in Colorado’s San Luis Valley are working to better understand the impacts of wildfire to communities, watersheds, and quality of life.
read moreof Wildfire, Watersheds, and the Wildland-Urban Interface in the San Luis Valley
Economic Diversification and Outdoor Recreation in Bonner County
— Improving economic diversification and outdoor recreation in Bonner County will bring new spending and jobs to the community.
read moreof Economic Diversification and Outdoor Recreation in Bonner County
New Montana Homes Increase Wildfire Risks
— The number of western Montana homes in areas with high wildfire hazard has doubled, outpacing development rates in areas with low wildfire hazard.
read moreof New Montana Homes Increase Wildfire Risks
Economic Impact of National Parks
— This interactive and background materials show visits, spending, and the number of jobs created in gateway communities for every National Park Service unit.
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Coal Communities Lack Strong Transition Plans
— A recent review published in the Resources Policy journal with researchers at Montana State University shows that coal communities lack strong transition plans and largely are unprepared for coming changes.
read moreof Coal Communities Lack Strong Transition Plans
Full Community Costs of Wildfire
— Almost half of the full community costs of wildfire are paid for at the local level, including homeowners, businesses, and government agencies.
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Impact of National Monuments Redesignated National Parks
— Investigating the economic effects of National Monuments redesignated National Parks, and the potential impact of converting the White Sands National Monument to a National Park.
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Gallatin County’s Economy, Growth, and Open Space
— This report summarizes Gallatin County's economy, how it has grown, and what is driving its performance. The report also describes how growth threatens open space and the role these lands play in local quality of life.
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Measuring Whitefish Trail Use
— Outdoor recreation and the economic impact of Whitefish Trail use in Whitefish, Montana.
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Montana Losing Open Space
— From 1990 to 2016, the number of single-family homes in Montana grew by 50 percent, and the popularity of large lots converted 1.3 million acres of undeveloped land to housing.
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Montana Losing Open Space: Sortable Data
— Review the different rates of home construction and loss of open space across Montana counties.
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Communities Threatened by Wildfire, 2000-2017: Sortable Table
— The sortable table identifies frequently threatened towns and cities, including the different sizes and distances of wildfires from nearby communities.
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Benefits of a Frontage Path in Gallatin County, Montana
— Updated: This report describes the benefits of a frontage path--a proposed paved, multi-use pathway connecting Belgrade and Bozeman along an approximately ten-mile stretch of U.S. Highway 10 in Gallatin County.
read moreof Benefits of a Frontage Path in Gallatin County, Montana
Economic Challenges and Opportunities in Taos County
— The economic challenges and opportunities in Taos County stem from being both a bustling mountain resort town, and a rural community facing long-term socioeconomic challenges.
read moreof Economic Challenges and Opportunities in Taos CountyEnchanted Circle Trails: Final Survey Results
— In Taos, New Mexico, Hispanic residents and low-income residents are less likely to have used trails during the previous year, but those who have used trails during the previous year use them just as often as other (non-Hispanic) residents. Among low-income residents, those with a park or trail within a 10-minute walk of their house were 50 percent more likely to have used trails during the previous year.
read moreof Enchanted Circle Trails: Final Survey ResultsParks and Park Funding in Los Angeles: An Equity-Mapping Analysis
— In Los Angeles, historic land use policies that emphasized low-density housing and did not prioritize public park spaces have led to significant inequities of park access across race, ethnicity, and income. A fund designed to improve access to public parks could exacerbate this problem unless it considers proposals for nontraditional public spaces such as schoolyards and vacant lots, because there is very little available park space in the most underserved neighborhoods.
read moreof Parks and Park Funding in Los Angeles: An Equity-Mapping AnalysisChildhood Obesity and Proximity to Urban Parks and Recreational Resources: A Longitudinal Cohort Study
— By following a large sample of children over time, this study demonstrates that children who participate in recreation programs, or who live a walkable distance from parks, are much less likely to be obese or overweight. These benefits can be achieved through formal parks and programs, but also through accessible green space or other small, informal places that encourage informal play.
read moreof Childhood Obesity and Proximity to Urban Parks and Recreational Resources: A Longitudinal Cohort StudyNeighborhood Income Matters: Disparities in Community Recreation Facilities, Amenities, and Programs
— At a sample of recreation centers in southern California, researchers find that several measures of facility condition and amenities are better in high-income neighborhoods relative to low-income neighborhoods. The likelihood that a child uses the recreation center increases 23 percent for each $10,000 increase in neighborhood income, but the authors do not find a relationship between the quality of the facility and participation rates.
read moreof Neighborhood Income Matters: Disparities in Community Recreation Facilities, Amenities, and ProgramsNeighborhood Poverty, Park Use, and Park-Based Physical Activity in a Southern California City
— A large study of 50 urban parks in Southern California measures park use by nearby residents and other users across high-, medium-, and low-poverty areas, finding that parks are used less in high-poverty areas. Those who do use parks in high-poverty areas, however, on average use the parks more per week, are more likely to see familiar people in the parks, and use the parks more when there are more staff present.
read moreof Neighborhood Poverty, Park Use, and Park-Based Physical Activity in a Southern California City
Assessing Wildfire and Populations at Risk
— A new tool helps the City of Santa Fe, New Mexico assess wildfire and populations at risk.
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Lessons from the Timber Transition
— Western counties once dependent on timber today perform similarly to like-sized counties. Three case studies outline economic lessons from counties that weathered the timber transition.
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Megan Lawson, Ph.D.
Youth Migration in the West
— Western counties are experiencing a wide disparity in youth migration. While some are attracting and keeping young adults and families, others are struggling.
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Comparing Coal Fiscal Policies for Western States
— Coal fiscal policies vary widely across the West in terms of how revenue is generated, set aside in permanent savings, or spent by state and local governments.
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Planning Tools to Reduce Montana’s Wildfire Risk
— County governments, fire districts and service areas, and landowners have many opportunities to reduce wildfire risk in the wildland-urban interface through land use planning tools and strategies, though challenges in Montana’s regulatory framework remain.
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Kelly Pohl
The Growth of Hispanic Populations Across the West
— Hispanics account for roughly one in four westerners and one in six rural westerners.
read moreof The Growth of Hispanic Populations Across the West
Montana’s Economy, Public Lands, and Competitive Advantage
— This report summarizes Montana’s economy analyzing recent growth and what is driving its performance, including a description of how federal lands help attract people, investment, and businesses.
read moreof Montana’s Economy, Public Lands, and Competitive Advantage
The Economic Importance of National Monuments to Communities
— This research and interactive charts show that the local economies adjacent to all 17 national monuments studied in the West expanded following the monument’s creation.
read moreof The Economic Importance of National Monuments to Communities
Resilient Taos County: Living with Wildfire
— This story map provides Taos County residents with information about the ecological role of fire, the region’s wildfire risk, forest restoration projects, and emergency preparedness.
read moreof Resilient Taos County: Living with Wildfire
Minority Populations Driving County Growth in the Rural West
— Minority populations are growing in nearly all rural western counties, helping booming communities expand and slowing the decline in counties that otherwise would have lost people.
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Mark Haggerty
The Context and Status of Colstrip’s Coal-Fired Power Plant
— A guide to planning for the long-term social, economic and environmental well-being of the community of Colstrip, Montana.
read moreof The Context and Status of Colstrip’s Coal-Fired Power Plant
Rural Economic Development in Lincoln, Montana
— Many rural western towns face economic uncertainty. This report—informed by interviews and public meetings with residents—compares Lincoln to peer communities and outlines rural economic development options building on the town’s strengths.
read moreof Rural Economic Development in Lincoln, Montana
Why the Rural West Matters
— The rural West matters for at least three important reasons: the vitality of the region’s landscape; its impact on local, state, and national politics; and the future of the area’s people and communities.
read moreof Why the Rural West Matters
The Value of Public Lands
— Headwaters Economics compiled a number of regional reports, case studies, tools, research library, and related news articles on the value of public lands to nearby communities.
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Wildfire Experts’ Paper Informs Effective Policy
— Wildfire experts outline key science insights important to inform policy discussions and development while reducing future risks and costs.
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Comparing Trends and Prosperity in Gunnison County
— Explore socioeconomic trends in Gunnison County and neighboring Colorado counties.
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Ray Rasker, Ph.D.
Rural Communities, School Kids, and Federal Lands in the West
— While most western rural counties are aging and losing young families, the loss of school kids in rural western counties with protected lands such as National Monuments was, on average, less than half the rate of loss for similar counties without protected lands.
read moreof Rural Communities, School Kids, and Federal Lands in the West
Time to Create a Natural Resources Trust
— Unlike most countries and state governments, the U.S. has not created a natural resources trust which could help meet volatility and spending challenges facing local and county governments.
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Federal Lands in the West: Liability or Asset?
— Update: Rural counties in the West with more federal lands performed better on average than their peers with less federal lands in four key economic measures.
read moreof Federal Lands in the West: Liability or Asset?
Measuring Prosperity in Gunnison County, Colorado
— This tool explores socioeconomic trends in Gunnison County, Colorado and compares them to neighboring counties and the state of Colorado.
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Trail and Pathway Use in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
— Explore seasonal use—including the amount, type, and timing—for 25 regional trails and pathways.
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Taos Trails Are Popular But Trail Access Varies
— In the Taos, New Mexico area trails are a fundamental part of health and quality of life, but differences in access to trails may limit the benefits for Hispanic and low-income residents.
read moreof Taos Trails Are Popular But Trail Access Varies
County Payments Research
— County governments are compensated for the tax-exempt status of federal public lands within their boundaries. These payments often constitute a significant portion of county and school budgets, particularly in rural counties with extensive public land ownership.
read moreof County Payments Research
Does Insurance Affect Home Development on Wildfire-Prone Lands?
— It is unlikely that insurance rates and policies alone will determine whether or not a landowner decides to build a new home on wildfire-prone land.
read moreof Does Insurance Affect Home Development on Wildfire-Prone Lands?Oregon Snowmobiler Participation and Priorities
— Across Oregon, snowmobilers account for approximately 353,000 user days per year and $15 million in spending associated with snowmobile trips. Respondents are most concerned about the availability of backcountry, off-trail riding opportunities and sustaining access to existing riding areas.
read moreof Oregon Snowmobiler Participation and PrioritiesOutdoor Recreation Scarcity and Abundance in Western Oregon: A Spatial Analysis
— Across western Oregon, there is substantial variation in how well the supply of hiking, mountain biking, and off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails meets demand for these trails by local users. Although some communities have many miles of trails, such as the 146 miles of mountain biking trails within 60 minutes of Portland, the supply of trails may be too low to support the number of people using them.
read moreof Outdoor Recreation Scarcity and Abundance in Western Oregon: A Spatial AnalysisOregon Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Participation and Priorities
— Across Oregon, off-highway vehicle (OHV) riders account for approximately 3.1 million days of riding per year and nearly $100 million in spending. Sixty percent of respondents support increasing the OHV registration fee from $10 to $15, and more than half identify the maintenance of existing trails as the most important funding priority.
read moreof Oregon Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Participation and PrioritiesBonner County Trails Final Survey Results
— In rural Bonner County in northern Idaho, trails are used by three-quarters of residents an average of every day in the summer and every other day in the winter. Trail use is high for all residents, even accounting for differences in the length of residence in the county, income, and age. Business owners are more likely to identify trails as an important factor in their decision to move to the county.
read moreof Bonner County Trails Final Survey ResultsHappy Trails: The Effect of a Media Campaign on Urban Trail Use in Southern Nevada
— A media campaign to promote a trails information site in Las Vegas, Nevada appears to have significantly increased trail use across most trails studied. The size of the gain in trail use appears to be independent of trail lighting, landscaping, and trail length.
read moreof Happy Trails: The Effect of a Media Campaign on Urban Trail Use in Southern Nevada
Summary: Wildfire Costs, New Development, and Rising Temperatures
— This summary highlights the major research Headwaters Economics has conducted concerning controlling fire suppression costs, state case studies, and the growth of homes in the WUI.
read moreof Summary: Wildfire Costs, New Development, and Rising TemperaturesNewsletter: March 2016
— Our latest research on communities threatened by wildfire, the West's economy, trail and pathway use in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and a report on planning for Montana's energy transition.
read moreof Newsletter: March 2016
West’s Economy Outperforming Rest of United States
— Explore the West’s economy, regional performance, and what is driving economic growth.
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Survey Finds Trails Valued Across Bonner County
— Survey provides information on Bonner County's trail system and will help prioritize improvements based on resident usage, satisfaction, reasons for living in the area.
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Planning for Montana’s Energy Transition
— While Montana is likely to experience relatively small impacts, coal-dependent communities in Eastern Montana are likely to feel the acute effects of job losses and declining tax revenue in the coming decades.
read moreof Planning for Montana’s Energy Transition
Kimiko Barrett, Ph.D.
Rising Wildfire Costs Encourage Better Land Use Planning
— Five urban areas in the West and Southwest are taking steps to mitigate wildfire risks and costs through the perspective of land use planning.
read moreof Rising Wildfire Costs Encourage Better Land Use PlanningNewsletter: February 2016
— Our latest research on federal lands in the rural West, land use planning to reduce wildfire risk, and a paper from ten wildfire experts to inform future policy decisions.
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Land Use Planning to Reduce Wildfire Risk
— Case studies show how five urban areas in the West are using innovative land use planning tools to adapt to the increasing risks from wildfires.
read moreof Land Use Planning to Reduce Wildfire RiskAdapting To the New Economy: The Impacts of Mountain Bike Tourism in Oakridge, Oregon
— Mountain biking in Oakridge, Oregon contributes substantial economic activity to a small, isolated community deeply affected by the loss of timber jobs. Although the recent rapid growth in the area’s popularity has some residents concerned about cultural change, user conflicts, and environmental concerns, the author is confident these challenges can be overcome.
read moreof Adapting To the New Economy: The Impacts of Mountain Bike Tourism in Oakridge, OregonEconomic Benefits of Mountain Bike Tourism for Santa Cruz County
— This report on the potential for mountain bike tourism in Santa Cruz County, California demonstrates how trail advocates can use existing research studies to help make a case for trail development in their community. The authors argue that the presence of significant bike industry companies, a large existing social trail network, and appealing climate and terrain create a strong potential for mountain bike tourism.
read moreof Economic Benefits of Mountain Bike Tourism for Santa Cruz CountyOregon Non-Motorized Trail Participation and Priorities
— Non-motorized trail users in Oregon account for 162.3 million user days per year, and the vast majority of these days are spent walking or hiking. While these recreation days are associated with substantial expenditures, the amount spent per person per day and the total economic impact vary greatly within the state.
read moreof Oregon Non-Motorized Trail Participation and PrioritiesYellowstone-Grand Teton Loop Bicycle Pathway Estimated Economic Impact
— A 262-mile cycle touring loop connecting Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, with significant portions on non-motorized pathways, has the potential to generate important economic activity in the small communities through which it would pass. However, due to the challenges of estimating economic impact across a large area and areas close to national parks, the use and economic impact estimates are likely overstated.
read moreof Yellowstone-Grand Teton Loop Bicycle Pathway Estimated Economic ImpactJackson Hole Pathways and Trails Survey
— In Jackson Hole, Wyoming, a random, statistically representative survey gathered information about residents’ opinions of pathways and trails, including levels and types of use, satisfaction, strengths and weaknesses, and the role the trail system plays in quality of life. The survey found that 91 percent of residents had used the trail system in the previous 12 months and the trail system functions well for recreation, but could use improvements to serve transportation needs.
read moreof Jackson Hole Pathways and Trails Survey
Outcomes of Higher Federal Coal and Natural Gas Royalty Rates
— Analysis shows that proposed federal royalty reforms will increase the cost of delivering natural gas to domestic power plants by a greater amount than coal.
read moreof Outcomes of Higher Federal Coal and Natural Gas Royalty RatesNewsletter: December 2015
— Our latest research on the Three Wests, the impacts of federal royalty rate reforms on coal and natural gas, home construction in Montana, and our newest staffer: Janet Clark.
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Chris Mehl
Know Your Economy: Economic Tools Updated for Every County
— Understanding the local economy, and how it compares to peers, is a crucial part of smart community and economic development. Several new tools, utilizing the latest data (through 2014), now are available for every county in the nation.
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Patricia Hernandez Gude
Urban Areas Drive Economic Growth in the West
— Despite being known for its rural landscapes, the West is surprisingly urban.
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Chris Mehl
The West Today: What Sectors Drive the Economy?
— In the West today, what economic sectors are driving the economy and make up the growing workforce?
read moreof The West Today: What Sectors Drive the Economy?
Three Wests: Access to Markets Affects Performance
— There are three distinct types of counties in the West—Metro, Connected, and Isolated—defined by their access to major markets and population centers.
read moreof Three Wests: Access to Markets Affects PerformanceNewsletter: September 2015
— Our latest research on the benefits of LWCF, home construction in the High Divide region, commercial activities on National Forests, and our newest staffer: Kimiko Barrett.
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Home Construction in the High Divide
— The High Divide region, recognized as one of the most intact biological areas in the lower 48 states, is attracting many new residents and home construction is changing the landscape.
read moreof Home Construction in the High Divide
Wildfire Increasingly an Urban Issue
— Wildfires increasingly are threatening urban areas—often repeatedly—putting more homes, lives, infrastructure, and other resources at risk.
read moreof Wildfire Increasingly an Urban IssueNewsletter: June 2015
— Our latest research on the updated EPS, economic impacts of National Park Service units, better planning to reduce wildfire risk, the latest county payments and projections, and the new website.
read moreof Newsletter: June 2015Newsletter: May 2015
— Our latest research on federal coal royalty reform, reducing wildfire threats, trail user surveys, and Bonner County, Idaho's resilient economy.
read moreof Newsletter: May 2015
Reducing Wildfire Risk to Communities
— This report outlines a number of solutions to alter the pace, scale, and pattern of future development in the Wildland-Urban Interface.
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Bonner County, Idaho’s Resilient Economy
— Analysis shows that Bonner County’s economy has grown steadily and been resilient, despite recessions and losing several large employers, and many local businesses are committed to the community and its high quality of life.
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Better Planning to Reduce Wildfire Risk: A Summit County Case Study and Lessons for Other Communities
— Wildfires pose a growing threat to many communities. As more development occurs near wildfire-prone lands, there is a growing need to reduce risk through improved land use policies and tools.
read moreof Better Planning to Reduce Wildfire Risk: A Summit County Case Study and Lessons for Other Communities
Teton County Trails & Pathways Survey Shows Extensive Local Use
— Survey shows that nine out of 10 respondents use the pathways and trails in Teton County, Wyoming. Such surveys help community leaders, stakeholders, and citizens plan for the future of pathways and trails systems.
read moreof Teton County Trails & Pathways Survey Shows Extensive Local UseNewsletter: April 2015
— Our latest research on trails, the economic value of public lands in Grand County, Utah, economic development opportunities in Wheeler County, Oregon, and climate impacts in the Great Lakes region.
read moreof Newsletter: April 2015
Economic Development Opportunities in Wheeler County, Oregon
— Like many rural counties in the West, Wheeler County faces economic difficulties. It also has untapped resources and opportunities, which suggest the possibility of a brighter economic future.
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County Payment Reform Ideas, and Analysis of Recent Proposals
— Reform ideas for future county payments from Headwaters Economics as well analysis of proposals made in the House, Senate, and by the President.
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The Economic Value of Public Lands in Grand County, Utah
— This updated report analyzes the economic value of public lands in Grand County, Utah and the important role that these lands play for local businesses and the well-being of the region’s economy.
read moreof The Economic Value of Public Lands in Grand County, UtahBicycling and Walking in Colorado: Economic Impact and Household Survey Results
— This study found that bicycle tourism draws summertime tourists to Colorado ski areas who would not have come otherwise, many of whom come from out-of-state and generate valuable economic impact. State-wide, residents are most concerned about the safety of cycling and strongly support spending on improvements such as new paved off-street bike paths and linking paths to create a statewide system.
read moreof Bicycling and Walking in Colorado: Economic Impact and Household Survey ResultsEvaluation of the Burke-Gilman Trail’s Effect on Property Values and Crime
— This study found that the Burke Gilman Trail in Seattle is most often seen as an asset by those who moved to the neighborhood after it was built, while those who have lived there since before the trail was built are less likely to see the trail as increasing the sales price or ease of selling their home. Crime associated with the trail is negligible and adjacent property owners’ biggest concern is privacy.
read moreof Evaluation of the Burke-Gilman Trail’s Effect on Property Values and CrimeWhatcom Mountain Bike Coalition Rider Survey
— This study found that the Galbraith Mountain mountain bike trail system is a valuable asset for local residents, many of whom moved to the area or stay in the area because of the trails, and for visitors, who visit frequently and spend money at local businesses. While the club building the trails is developing a destination-worthy trail system, they are also providing significant benefits for the local cycling community.
read moreof Whatcom Mountain Bike Coalition Rider SurveyAnalysis of Touring Cyclists: Impacts, Needs and Opportunities for Montana
— This study found that cycle tourists in Montana spend an average of $76 per day and stay eight days in the state during their trip, much longer than the average tourist. Safety is cycle tourists’ top priority, so supporting more cycle touring in the state requires investments in safer routes, including narrower rumble strips, wider shoulders, and bike paths separate from roadways in high-traffic, high-speed areas.
read moreof Analysis of Touring Cyclists: Impacts, Needs and Opportunities for MontanaAn Economic Impact Study of Bicycling in Arizona
— This study found that Arizona drew 14,000 out-of-state visitors to 250 cycling events in 2012. Because most participants stay for an average of only four days, their visits have a relatively small economic impact in the state-wide economy. However, these events are likely significant to small towns (see 69) and local spending associated with Arizona residents traveling within the state may generate significant additional economic impact (see a similar study in Oregon 68).
read moreof An Economic Impact Study of Bicycling in ArizonaProject Brief: The Economic Impact of Mountain Bicycle Events in Oregon
— This study found that mountain biking events in Oregon are popular, with a large proportion of overnight visitors who stay for several nights. While these events can generate a large spending infusion for local businesses, particularly in small communities, it is typically short-lived unless the event adds to visitation throughout the season.
read moreof Project Brief: The Economic Impact of Mountain Bicycle Events in OregonColumbia River Gorge Bicycle Recreation: Economic Impact Forecast for the Communities along the Historic Columbia River Highway
— This study found that road cycling and mountain biking are valuable sources of income for communities close to the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail. According to survey results, a proposed trail improvement that would increase the uninterrupted length of the trail and improve rider safety could significantly increase economic impact by increasing the trail’s appeal for overnight users.
read moreof Columbia River Gorge Bicycle Recreation: Economic Impact Forecast for the Communities along the Historic Columbia River HighwayThe Economic Significance of Bicycle-Related Travel in Oregon: Detailed State and Travel Region Estimates, 2012
— This study found that bicycle-related tourism in Oregon attracts many visitors, both from within and outside the state, to participate in a range of activities. While the impacts of visitor spending are relatively small relative to the state’s economy, it likely has a large effect in smaller towns, especially when associated with large events.
read moreof The Economic Significance of Bicycle-Related Travel in Oregon: Detailed State and Travel Region Estimates, 2012Economic Impacts of MVSTA Trails and Land Resources in the Methow Valley
— This study found that the 200-kilometer Nordic skiing trail network in the Methow Valley of Washington state is the reason why many people visit the area and choose to purchase homes there. Non-resident trail users and residents alike are largely willing to pay some amount of money to support trail maintenance and additional trail construction.
read moreof Economic Impacts of MVSTA Trails and Land Resources in the Methow ValleyThe Economic Impact of Snowmobiling in Valley County
— This study found that snowmobilers from outside Valley County, Idaho are an important source of revenue during the winter months, spending an average of three days per trip and $106 per day. This revenue stream is highly susceptible to weather, with visits dropping 40 percent in a low snow year.
read moreof The Economic Impact of Snowmobiling in Valley CountyMontana Recreational Snowmobiles: Fuel-Use and Spending Patterns 2013
— This study found that snowmobiling is associated with high daily spending in Montana, with the average resident snowmobiler spending $108 per day and the average non-resident spending $148 per day. Despite the 4,000 miles of groomed trails available in the state, snowmobiling remains primarily an activity enjoyed by residents, who accounted for 93 percent of snowmobiling days in 2013.
read moreof Montana Recreational Snowmobiles: Fuel-Use and Spending Patterns 2013Newsletter: March 2015
— Our latest research on county payments, federal coal royalties, Montana's economy and its public lands, and the economic opportunities in the Blackfoot River watershed.
read moreof Newsletter: March 2015
Unconventional Oil and Gas Revenues to Local Governments
— This report includes seven major energy-producing states and a new interactive adds four more (AR, LA, and PA). The study and interactive compare how local governments receive production tax revenue from unconventional oil and natural gas.
read moreof Unconventional Oil and Gas Revenues to Local GovernmentsThe Economic Benefits of Mountain Biking at One of Its Meccas: An Application of the Travel Cost Method to Mountain Biking in Moab, Utah
— This study found that the Slickrock Trail, a world-famous mountain bike trail in Moab, Utah, draws a large number of avid users annually, who are willing to travel long distances and spend large sums to reach it. Because access fees are a relatively low portion of overall trip cost, visitation rates are unlikely to change much even if they are increased.
read moreof The Economic Benefits of Mountain Biking at One of Its Meccas: An Application of the Travel Cost Method to Mountain Biking in Moab, UtahParks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey: Findings Report
— This study found that while 70 percent of Missoula residents were willing to pay more taxes to acquire open space and build new trails and recreation facilities, still more (77%) were willing to pay more taxes to maintain existing facilities. Eighty-six percent of all residents had used City parks in the previous 12 months, highlighting the importance of within-community trails even in rural areas with public lands nearby.
read moreof Parks and Recreation Needs Assessment Survey: Findings ReportJackson Hole Trail Project Economic Impact Study
— This study found that locals are the main beneficiary of the Teton County, Wyoming trail system, although visitors are increasingly enjoying area trails outside of Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. The economic impact of the trails may be significant, but is difficult to estimate without knowing how many visitors come to the area just for the trail system.
read moreof Jackson Hole Trail Project Economic Impact StudyEstimating the Recreation Demand and Economic Value of Mountain Biking in Moab, Utah: An Application of Count Data Models
— This study found that mountain bikers visiting the Moab, Utah trail system spent an average of $282 per trip and visited 2.5 times per year. Rather than a specific trail, as was studied in the Fix and Loomis (1997) Slickrock Trail study, this study evaluated the benefits of the Moab area’s whole mountain bike trail system.
read moreof Estimating the Recreation Demand and Economic Value of Mountain Biking in Moab, Utah: An Application of Count Data ModelsTrails on Tribal Lands in the United States
— This study found that the benefits of trails in Indian Country may be more significant than in other communities that are less culturally or spatially fragmented, less politically and economically marginalized, or less culturally tied to the landscape. Trails can provide particularly valuable benefits to residents of Indian Country, helping to improve residents’ quality of life in several dimensions: connecting tribal members to each other and to culturally significant sites and natural resources; providing safe alternative transportation routes across the reservation; providing opportunities for safe exercise; and providing opportunities for economic development and cultural education.
read moreof Trails on Tribal Lands in the United StatesA Hedonic Travel Cost Analysis for Valuation of Multiple Components of Site Quality: The Recreation Value of Forest Management
— This study found that wilderness trail users are willing to travel farther (and therefore spend more) to reach trails with campgrounds, old-growth forests, and views. Conversely, they avoid trails with long dirt road approaches and clear-cuts visible from the trail.
read moreof A Hedonic Travel Cost Analysis for Valuation of Multiple Components of Site Quality: The Recreation Value of Forest ManagementEstimating Social Welfare Using Count Data Models: An Application to Long-Run Recreation Demand Under Conditions of Endogenous Stratification and Truncation
— This study found that surveys that directly extrapolate the number of times an individual person visits a trail to the general population will significantly overstate the future trail use. Care must be taken to account for the differences between those interviewed at the trailhead and the rest of the population.
read moreof Estimating Social Welfare Using Count Data Models: An Application to Long-Run Recreation Demand Under Conditions of Endogenous Stratification and TruncationWildfire Effects on Hiking and Biking Demand in New Mexico: A Travel Cost Study
— This study found that crown wildfires that cross trails are likely to have a dramatic effect on use and individual benefit for hikers and mountain bikers that persists for decades after the fire occurs. Prescribed fires are also shown to decrease benefits and use for both groups, but these declines occur gradually over decades rather than an immediate drop in the year of a wildfire.
read moreof Wildfire Effects on Hiking and Biking Demand in New Mexico: A Travel Cost StudyTeton-West Yellowstone Region Backcountry Winter Recreation Economic Impact Analysis
— This study found that participants in backcountry, non-motorized winter recreation generate a substantial economic, employment, and fiscal impact in the Teton-West Yellowstone region. This is the only study we are aware of that assesses the impact of this type of recreation.
read moreof Teton-West Yellowstone Region Backcountry Winter Recreation Economic Impact AnalysisEstimating the Benefits and Costs to Mountain Bikers of Changes in Trail Characteristics, Access Fees, and Site Closures: Choice Experiments and Benefits Transfer
— This study found that all mountain bikers, from casual to the most avid, are most likely to ride on trails without hikers or equestrians, and are willing to pay a fee to ride on these trails. While mountain bikers are more likely to use singletrack trails, only the most avid are willing to pay a fee to extend the proportion of a ride that is singletrack.
read moreof Estimating the Benefits and Costs to Mountain Bikers of Changes in Trail Characteristics, Access Fees, and Site Closures: Choice Experiments and Benefits TransferOutdoor Recreation Net Benefits of Rail-Trails
— This study found that trail users are willing to incur greater expenses and travel further to use rural trails, and spend more time on those trails while they are there, indicating these trails are enjoyed by both locals and non-locals. Urban trails, on the other hand, are mainly a resource for local residents, and are used much more frequently and for shorter periods of times.
read moreof Outdoor Recreation Net Benefits of Rail-TrailsCommunity Economic Contributions from Recreational Trails Usage on Public Lands: Implications from a Comprehensive Wyoming Study
— This study found that trail-related recreation on Wyoming’s 10,000 miles of trails, both motorized and non-motorized, generates substantial spending for local businesses and tax revenue for state and local governments. While off-road vehicle (ORV) and snowmobile users generate far more spending in this analysis, the incomplete assessment of non-motorized users makes it difficult to make comparisons of impact between motorized and non-motorized users.
read moreof Community Economic Contributions from Recreational Trails Usage on Public Lands: Implications from a Comprehensive Wyoming Study
Chris Mehl
Understanding Climate Change Impacts on Cities, Counties, and National Forest Regions
— A sample of research and free tools available to help communities better understand the potential socioeconomic impacts of climate change.
read moreof Understanding Climate Change Impacts on Cities, Counties, and National Forest Regions
Migration & Population Trends in the West Vary by County Type
— County migration and population trends in the West constantly change. We summarize counties into four types--high-wage services, farm-dependent, oil and natural gas boom, and retirement destinations--to show the relationship between population and economic structure.
read moreof Migration & Population Trends in the West Vary by County Type
Economic Opportunities in the Blackfoot Watershed
— This report provides an overview of the Blackfoot River watershed’s economy and summarizes the findings from six focus groups that explored potential economic opportunities.
read moreof Economic Opportunities in the Blackfoot Watershed
The Tongass Transition Framework: A New Path Forward?
— This report examines whether the Tongass Transition Framework, which proposed a “new path forward,” is working to enhance economic opportunities in southeast Alaska while conserving the National Forest.
read moreof The Tongass Transition Framework: A New Path Forward?Newsletter: December 2014
— Our latest research on migration and population trends in the West, the Tongass Transition Framework, the need for a Natural Resources Trust, and the impact of the federal budget on county payments.
read moreof Newsletter: December 2014
Kelly Pohl
Understanding the Recreation Economy on Nearby Public Lands
— How can communities measure and take advantage of the economic impacts of nearby outdoor recreation activities on public lands?
read moreof Understanding the Recreation Economy on Nearby Public Lands
Chris Mehl
Getting the Economics Right: Communities, National Forests, and Local Development Decisions
— Getting the economics right is important for communities to compete in a modern economy. We've created a number of tools to help rural, western communities better understand current trends as well as the role of the nearby National Forest or other public lands.
read moreof Getting the Economics Right: Communities, National Forests, and Local Development Decisions
Mark Haggerty
Time for a U.S. Natural Resources Trust?
— Compared to other nations and even U.S. states, the federal government is a conspicuous laggard in creating a natural resources trust which would allow for stable, permanent, and ever rising payments to states and local governments without risks to taxpayers.
read moreof Time for a U.S. Natural Resources Trust?
Mark Haggerty
Falling Oil Prices: Good for the U.S. Economy, Bad for Shale Communities?
— Lower oil prices could be great for the economy, but for the communities dependent on drilling, the price drop may prove challenging for several reasons.
read moreof Falling Oil Prices: Good for the U.S. Economy, Bad for Shale Communities?Newsletter: November 2014
— Our latest research on reducing wildfire risk to communities, monitoring the impact of fracking on communities, lessons for wildfire from the federal flood programs, and how renewable energy tax benefits vary widely among rural counties.
read moreof Newsletter: November 2014
Benefits of Renewable Energy in the West Vary Widely
— The West is rich in renewable energy opportunities, but research demonstrates that property tax revenues from this development vary widely across 17 rural study counties due to state tax policies.
read moreof Benefits of Renewable Energy in the West Vary Widely
How Is Fracking Shaping Your Community and Economy?
— Monitoring can help local governments better understand the socioeconomic impacts caused by energy development, and support requests to industry and state government for assistance to implement appropriate mitigation.
read moreof How Is Fracking Shaping Your Community and Economy?
Lessons for Wildfire from Federal Flood Risk Management Programs
— This paper reviews the experience of national floodplain management programs to draw lessons for new approaches to reduce the costs and risks posed by wildfire to properties in the Wildland-Urban Interface.
read moreof Lessons for Wildfire from Federal Flood Risk Management Programs
Megan Lawson, Ph.D.
On Halloween, Many Counties with High Death Rates Still Growing
— It's All Hallow's Eve, so we decided to look at western counties where the dead most recently were living. But a high death rate does not mean a county is faring poorly. Like most things, it’s complicated.
read moreof On Halloween, Many Counties with High Death Rates Still Growing
Megan Lawson, Ph.D.
Baby Boomers Move Near Protected Lands, Help Drive Economies
— Protected federal lands (such as Wilderness or National Parks) not only preserve unique landscapes, but have the potential to attract in-migrants such as baby boomers, which in turn help support a robust local economy.
read moreof Baby Boomers Move Near Protected Lands, Help Drive Economies
Ray Rasker, Ph.D.
Today’s Economy, Political Rhetoric Too Often Don’t Match
— Today's economy is much different than what we hear in the rhetoric from current politicians. We need our leaders to wrestle with current problems rather than old ones.
read moreof Today’s Economy, Political Rhetoric Too Often Don’t Match
Ray Rasker, Ph.D.
Wildfire Budget, Incentives, and Missed Opportunities
— The failure of Congress to pass wildfire disaster funding is a missed opportunity for two reasons: one to stop 'fire borrowing' and second to reduce risks and costs to homeowners and the taxpayer.
read moreof Wildfire Budget, Incentives, and Missed Opportunities
Three Wests Sortable Data
— Review the economic and demographic differences between Metro, Connected and Isolated counties.
read moreof Three Wests Sortable DataNewsletter: July 2014
— Our latest research on National Monuments, commercial activities on National Forests, the economic impact of National Parks, and using an index to target county payments.
read moreof Newsletter: July 2014
Study Finds No Evidence Firewise Lowers Suppression Costs
— Study finds no evidence of a relationship between wildfire suppression costs and Firewise participation, suggesting policies should focus on other solutions to lower future expenditures, such as preventing development in high risk areas.
read moreof Study Finds No Evidence Firewise Lowers Suppression CostsNewsletter: April 2014
— Our latest research on Firewise and suppression costs, case studies of how western communities respond to wildfire risk, the economic impact of National Park Service units, and measuring the restoration economy.
read moreof Newsletter: April 2014
Local Responses to Wildfire Risks Are Limited
— This study reviews how western communities are addressing wildfire risk, how they have responded to recent major fires, and useful lessons and public policy insights for the future.
read moreof Local Responses to Wildfire Risks Are Limited
The Economic Impacts of Restoration in Central Idaho
— This report provides a way to calculate the economic impacts of natural resource restoration activities to nearby communities that should be helpful to local officials, agency staff, and policy analysts.
read moreof The Economic Impacts of Restoration in Central IdahoNewsletter: March 2014
— Our latest research on the importance of non-labor income in the West, unconventional oil revenues, and free socioeconomic reports with details on every U.S. county.
read moreof Newsletter: March 2014
Non-Labor Income: Large and Growing in Importance Across the West
— Non-labor income is one of the largest and fastest growing sources of income in the West; constituting 34 percent of total personal income in 2011 and 60 percent of net growth in real personal income during the last decade.
read moreof Non-Labor Income: Large and Growing in Importance Across the West
North Dakota Not Returning Adequate Oil Revenue to Local Governments
— This report compares how North Dakota provides local governments with production tax revenue from unconventional oil extraction compared to other major energy-producing states.
read moreof North Dakota Not Returning Adequate Oil Revenue to Local Governments
Wyoming Oil Taxes: Highest Rate, Large Savings Compared to Other States
— This report compares how Wyoming provides local governments with production tax revenue from unconventional fossil fuel extraction compared to other major energy-producing states.
read moreof Wyoming Oil Taxes: Highest Rate, Large Savings Compared to Other States
Local Governmments in New Mexico Receive Lowest Share of Oil Revenue
— This report compares how New Mexico provides local governments with production tax revenue from unconventional fossil fuel extraction compared to other major energy-producing states.
read moreof Local Governmments in New Mexico Receive Lowest Share of Oil Revenue
Colorado Lags Other States in Taxing Oil, Incentives Increase Volatility
— This report compares how Colorado provides local governments with production tax revenue from unconventional fossil fuel extraction compared to other major energy-producing states.
read moreof Colorado Lags Other States in Taxing Oil, Incentives Increase Volatility
Montana Oil Tax Policy: No Long-Term Savings, Exposure to Volatility
— This report compares how Montana provides local governments with production tax revenue from unconventional fossil fuel extraction compared to other major energy-producing states.
read moreof Montana Oil Tax Policy: No Long-Term Savings, Exposure to VolatilityNewsletter: January 2014
— Our latest research on our Economic Profile System and recent updates.
read moreof Newsletter: January 2014Newsletter: December 2013
— Our latest research on the economic impact of long-term energy development, an interactive atlas of the West's economy, winners and losers from proposed county payments reforms, North Dakota's oil revenue sharing program, and the economic potential of the Owyhee Canyonlands in Malheur County, Oregon.
read moreof Newsletter: December 2013
Long-Term Energy Development Has Negative Impacts on Western Counties
— This paper demonstrates that when fossil fuel development plays a prominent, long-term role in local western economies there are negative effects on per capita income, crime rates, and educational attainment.
read moreof Long-Term Energy Development Has Negative Impacts on Western Counties
Owyhee Canyonlands Hold Economic Potential
— This report provides an initial analysis of the potential economic impact of protecting the Owyhee Canyonlands area in Malheur County, Oregon.
read moreof Owyhee Canyonlands Hold Economic PotentialNewsletter: Fall 2013
— Our latest research on climate impacts in the Great Lakes region, using tools to determine vulnerability to climate change, understanding income from National Forests, and why state tax policy matters.
read moreof Newsletter: Fall 2013
Fiscal Lessons for State and Local Governments
— This report explores the challenges for states and local communities caused by unconventional oil and natural gas development, and fiscal best practices that address them.
read moreof Fiscal Lessons for State and Local GovernmentsNewsletter: June 2013
— Our latest research on the rising cost of wildfires, an interactive atlas on the climate and economy of the Great Northern Landscape region, testimony before the U.S. Senate on county payments, and updated timber cut and sold reports.
read moreof Newsletter: June 2013
The Rising Cost of Wildfire Protection
— This report describes how the protection of homes in the Wildland-Urban Interface has added to wildfire costs and concludes with a discussion of solutions that may help control escalating risks and expenses.
read moreof The Rising Cost of Wildfire ProtectionNewsletter: Winter 2013
— Our latest research on the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI), an interactive map on how protected public lands impact per capita income, policy on energy transmission, and the economic potential for a new Maine National Park.
read moreof Newsletter: Winter 2013
Protected Federal Lands in Non-Metro West Increase Per Capita Income
— Headwaters Economics research and accompanying interactive map show the amount of per capita income explained by protected federal lands for each county in the non-metropolitan western U.S.
read moreof Protected Federal Lands in Non-Metro West Increase Per Capita Income
West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Jobs and Higher Incomes
— This report finds that the West’s popular national parks, monuments, wilderness areas and other public lands offer its growing high-tech and services industries a competitive advantage.
read moreof West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Jobs and Higher Incomes
Restoring the Clark Fork River
— Headwaters Economics worked with the Clark Fork Coalition, U.S. Forest Service, and others to create an interactive tool that describes many of the stories behind the ongoing recovery of the Clark Fork River.
read moreof Restoring the Clark Fork River
West Is Best Reports: News Release
— News release for report that shows how the western United States is outperforming the rest of the country and the role protected federal lands in providing western states a competitive economic advantage.
read moreof West Is Best Reports: News Release
West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Washington Jobs and Higher Incomes
— This fact sheet summarizes Washington's recent economic growth and the role of protected public lands in supporting faster job creation and higher per-capita income.
read moreof West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Washington Jobs and Higher Incomes
West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote New Mexico Jobs and Higher Incomes
— This New Mexico fact sheet summarizes the state's recent economic growth and the role protected public lands play in supporting faster job creation and higher per-capita income.
read moreof West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote New Mexico Jobs and Higher Incomes
West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Nevada Jobs and Higher Incomes
— During the past decade Nevada and the West outperformed the nation, and the competitive advantage offered by its protected lands supported job growth and higher per-capita incomes.
read moreof West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Nevada Jobs and Higher Incomes
West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Montana Jobs and Higher Incomes
— Montana's recent economic growth and the role of protected public lands in supporting employment creation and higher per-capita income are explored in this report.
read moreof West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Montana Jobs and Higher Incomes
West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Idaho Jobs and Higher Incomes
— Helped by its high quality of life and protected public lands, Idaho’s economy and population grew rapidly in the past decade. The majority of growth coming from health care and administrative services.
read moreof West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Idaho Jobs and Higher Incomes
West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Colorado Jobs and Higher Incomes
— Colorado's rate of population, employment, and real personal income growth has outpaced the nation and this fact sheet looks at the role of protected public lands in supporting jobs and higher incomes.
read moreof West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Colorado Jobs and Higher Incomes
West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote California Jobs and Higher Incomes
— This California report is part of a series that analyzes how and why the West is outperforming the nation, and the competitive advantage offered by its protected lands.
read moreof West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote California Jobs and Higher Incomes
West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Arizona Jobs and Higher Incomes
— This fact sheet summarizes Arizona's recent economic growth and the role of protected public lands in supporting faster job creation and higher per-capita income.
read moreof West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Arizona Jobs and Higher Incomes
West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Oregon Jobs and Higher Incomes
— The great majority of Oregon’s net new jobs are from services industries, many of them high-paying. This report looks at the state's economy and the role of protected public lands.
read moreof West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Oregon Jobs and Higher Incomes
West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Wyoming Jobs and Higher Incomes
— Wyoming is an economic leader and protected public lands help the state grow and diversify its economy.
read moreof West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Wyoming Jobs and Higher Incomes
West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Utah Jobs and Higher Incomes
— Utah has been a national leader in economic growth during the past decade. This report looks at the state's economy and the role of protected public lands.
read moreof West Is Best: Protected Lands Promote Utah Jobs and Higher IncomesNewsletter: Fall 2012
— Our latest research on wildfire trends, improved socioeconomic profiles, fiscal and energy policy, and Montana's Rocky Mountain Front.
read moreof Newsletter: Fall 2012
Montana’s Rocky Mountain Front
— This report analyzes the Front’s land, people, and economy, how the region has changed in important ways during the past several decades, and the potential impact of the proposed Rocky Mountain Heritage Act on the Front.
read moreof Montana’s Rocky Mountain Front
Western Counties and the Recession
— This study provides a number of lessons as the West slowly recovers from the recent recession about why some local economies performed better than others.
read moreof Western Counties and the Recession
The Proposed SunZia Transmission Line: A Guide for Decision Makers
— This report analyzes the proposed SunZia transmission line, finding that the project, as currently configured, depends on its ability to export renewable energy from New Mexico to markets in Arizona and California.
read moreof The Proposed SunZia Transmission Line: A Guide for Decision Makers
Report: New Mexico’s Oil and Natural Gas Industry
— This graphical analysis reviews the status of New Mexico's oil and gas industry including production, drilling activity, and its role in the state's economy.
read moreof Report: New Mexico’s Oil and Natural Gas Industry
Green Jobs Metrics
— This research summary offers an overview of efforts to quantify the national green economy in terms of job creation from several perspectives.
read moreof Green Jobs Metrics
Report: Colorado’s Oil and Natural Gas Industry
— This graphical analysis reviews the status of Colorado's oil and gas industry including production, drilling activity, tax policy, its role in Colorado’s economy.
read moreof Report: Colorado’s Oil and Natural Gas Industry
Unconventional Oil and North Dakota Communities: State Fiscal Policy Unprepared for Impacts of Energy Development
— This report analyzes the growing infrastructure and services needs of the Bakken boom and meeting the demands of unconventional energy development.
read moreof Unconventional Oil and North Dakota Communities: State Fiscal Policy Unprepared for Impacts of Energy Development
Colorado’s Economy and the Role of Federal Protected Lands
— This report summarizes Colorado's economy and the role of federal protected lands, including how the state has performed, and Colorado's ability to attract people, investment, and businesses.
read moreof Colorado’s Economy and the Role of Federal Protected Lands
New Mexico’s Economy and the Role of Federal Protected Lands
— An analysis of New Mexico’s economy and how federal protected lands impact economic performance.
read moreof New Mexico’s Economy and the Role of Federal Protected Lands
Implementing Climate Change Adaptation: Lessons Learned From Ten Examples
— This paper presents ten examples of cities and counties around the country and the key lessons learned in the process of moving from planning to implementation on climate change adaptation.
read moreof Implementing Climate Change Adaptation: Lessons Learned From Ten Examples
Report: The Status of Utah’s Oil and Gas Industry
— This graphical analysis shows that Utah's oil and gas industry was recovering at the time of the report.
read moreof Report: The Status of Utah’s Oil and Gas Industry
Clean Energy Transmission
— Headwaters Economics analyzed transmission infrastructure issues from the perspective of regional economic development, and other topics most relevant to local and state decision makers.
read moreof Clean Energy Transmission
County Level Drilling Activity, 2001-2011
— This report focuses on county-level details of drilling rig activity for the period 2001 to 2011 in the six Rocky Mountain oil and gas states of Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming.
read moreof County Level Drilling Activity, 2001-2011
Oregon Home Building, Higher Temperatures Drive Price Tag Ever Higher
— This Headwaters Economics study analyzes the impact of housing and climate on the costs of fighting forest fires in National Forests of Oregon.
read moreof Oregon Home Building, Higher Temperatures Drive Price Tag Ever Higher
Economists Urge President Obama to Protect Federal Public Lands
— More than 100 economists and academics urged President Obama to create and invest in new federal protected lands such as national parks, wilderness, and monuments.
read moreof Economists Urge President Obama to Protect Federal Public Lands
Olympic Peninsula Economy and Potential Impact of Draft Wild Olympics Proposal
— Report on the economy of the Olympics Peninsula and impact of the Wild Olympics proposal.
read moreof Olympic Peninsula Economy and Potential Impact of Draft Wild Olympics Proposal
Preparing Missoula County for a Changing Climate
— A report on socioeconomic conditions of Missoula County as part of public process of developing a climate change adaptation plan.
read moreof Preparing Missoula County for a Changing Climate
Public Lands Ranching in Southern Utah
— A report on public lands ranching in southern Utah.
read moreof Public Lands Ranching in Southern Utah
Carey, Idaho and Economic Recovery
— This report summarizes interviews with local government and business leaders on obstacles to and opportunities for local economic recovery in Carey, Idaho from the last recession.
read moreof Carey, Idaho and Economic Recovery
Northern California, Homes, and Cost of Wildfires
— This Headwaters Economics study analyzes the impact of housing and climate on the costs of fighting forest fires in the twelve national forests of the Sierra Nevada.
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Missoula County Homes at Risk in Flood and Wildfire Areas
— These two slideshows and related information use Missoula County and Western Montana to show how many homes have been built in flood and wildfire hazard areas, which are vulnerable to larger and more frequent floods and fires.
read moreof Missoula County Homes at Risk in Flood and Wildfire Areas
EPS: Getting the Economics Right
— Headwaters Economics has updated the Economic Profile System (EPS) to help decision makers access and analyze large amounts of information about their communities.
read moreof EPS: Getting the Economics Right
Drilling Rig Activity Nears 20-Year High
— A graphical analysis of oil and natural gas drilling in the United States which now has returned to pre-recession levels.
read moreof Drilling Rig Activity Nears 20-Year High
Fossil Fuel Extraction and Western Economies
— This study analyzes the fossil fuel economy in five Rocky Mountain states—CO, MT, NM, UT, and WY—and how states and communities can maximize benefits and minimize the costs of energy development.
read moreof Fossil Fuel Extraction and Western EconomiesNational Monuments: Detailed Reports
— Headwaters Economics created a series of reports on the economic performance of western communities near national monuments.
read moreof National Monuments: Detailed Reports
Federal Land Payments to Counties: Background Analysis, History, and Context
— Research on the history and context of county payments which play an important role in many rural communities--influencing public lands management, economic development, and funding for local schools, roads, and public safety.
read moreof Federal Land Payments to Counties: Background Analysis, History, and Context
County Payments, Jobs, and Forest Health
— This post summarizes a newsletter discussing the future of county payments, a White Paper to better to understand how possible reforms, and other research items.
read moreof County Payments, Jobs, and Forest Health
Crown of the Continent and Climate Change
— This report studies the possible effects of climate change in the Crown of the Continent on two “snow-pack” dependent sectors of the economy--downhill skiing and recreational fishing.
read moreof Crown of the Continent and Climate Change
Yellowstone River Atlas
— This site documents the economic and demographic conditions of counties bordering the Yellowstone River, and displays maps showing past, current, and forecasted residential development along the river.
read moreof Yellowstone River Atlas
Improving Deschutes County’s Competitiveness
— The report analyzes the economic and fiscal challenges facing Deschutes County and provides recommendations to improve economic prospects.
read moreof Improving Deschutes County’s Competitiveness
Clean Energy Leadership in the Rockies: Competitive Positioning in the Emerging Green Economy
— The Clean Energy report compares how Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming are taking advantage of clean energy and energy efficiency opportunities to create green jobs.
read moreof Clean Energy Leadership in the Rockies: Competitive Positioning in the Emerging Green Economy
Oil Shale: 14 Unanswered Questions
— This report summarizes research and policy documents, and provides a brief overview of the status of oil shale development in the U.S. West.
read moreof Oil Shale: 14 Unanswered Questions
The Siskiyou Region: Demographic, Economic, and Fiscal Fundamentals
— The Siskiyou region is undergoing a significant economic transition. This report examines the region, counties within the region, and industry-level details.
read moreof The Siskiyou Region: Demographic, Economic, and Fiscal Fundamentals
Development Timeline: Oil Shale Activities in Colorado and Utah
— While a handful of companies reported being active in the field-testing of new technologies in 2009, only one company had announced plans to upscale to a prototype (semi-works scale) facility.
read moreof Development Timeline: Oil Shale Activities in Colorado and UtahPopulation Change from Migration by Age and Decade
Population Change from Migration, 1990 – 2009
Energy Development and the Changing Economy of the West-report summary
— This study examines how the West has changed, the rising importance of environmental amenities, and the relative role of energy development in the economy of western states.
read moreof Energy Development and the Changing Economy of the West-report summary
Energy Revenue in the Intermountain West
— This report examines the extent of energy reserves in the U.S. and on western public lands, and their scale in light of domestic production and consumption trends.
read moreof Energy Revenue in the Intermountain West
U.S. Energy Needs and the Role of Western Public Lands
— This report discusses the supply-side orientation of U.S. energy policy, and reviews existing data that describe available reserves, pricing structures, and patterns of consumption and demand.
read moreof U.S. Energy Needs and the Role of Western Public Lands
Fossil Fuel Extraction as a County Economic Development Strategy: Are Energy-Focusing Counties Benefiting?
— This report examines fossil fuel extraction as an economic development strategy for rural Western counties and whether it has benefited counties in the long run.
read moreof Fossil Fuel Extraction as a County Economic Development Strategy: Are Energy-Focusing Counties Benefiting?
Potential Impacts of Energy Development in New Mexico, with a Case Study of Otero County
— This report analyzes the economic and fiscal contribution of the oil and natural gas industries in New Mexico along with a case study of proposed energy development on Otero Mesa.
read moreof Potential Impacts of Energy Development in New Mexico, with a Case Study of Otero CountyPress Release: Clean Energy in the Rockies Report Released
— Study Shows Which States Are Attracting Jobs, Businesses, and Investment; Five Key Steps to Future Growth
read moreof Press Release: Clean Energy in the Rockies Report Released
Clearwater Basin Collaborative
— The Clearwater Basin Collaborative is a diverse group of regional interests working together to craft a plan for the protection, use, and management of National Forest land within the Clearwater Basin in Idaho.
read moreof Clearwater Basin CollaborativeOil Shale Library: Getting Started in Publicly Available Sources
— For those wishing to dig deeper into the current politics and economics of oil shale, Headwaters Economics recommends the following sources.
read moreof Oil Shale Library: Getting Started in Publicly Available Sources
The Economic Benefits of Southern New Mexico’s Natural Assets
— This report examines how investments in conservation and restoration provide both an immediate return through employment and revenue and help promote long-term economic growth that extends far beyond tourism.
read moreof The Economic Benefits of Southern New Mexico’s Natural Assets
Potential Impacts of Energy Development in Montana, with a Case Study of the Powder River Basin
— This report focuses on the economic and fiscal contributions of the oil and natural gas industries in Montana, including a case study of the Powder River Basin.
read moreof Potential Impacts of Energy Development in Montana, with a Case Study of the Powder River BasinImpacts of Energy Development in Wyoming, with a Case Study of Sweetwater County
— This report studies the significance of fossil fuel development in Wyoming, with a case study of the energy-focused county of Sweetwater County.
read moreof Impacts of Energy Development in Wyoming, with a Case Study of Sweetwater County
Sitka, Alaska Workshop
— Headwaters Economics facilitated a day-long workshop on how to apply the Forest Service's new Integrated Resource Management approach on the Sitka Ranger District.
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Fiscal Impact of the Montana Legacy Project
— These studies review the fiscal impact on Mineral and Lake counties of the Montana Legacy Project.
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Ranchland Ownership in Okanogan County, WA
— This report on land ownership and the ranching economy in the Okanogan Valley and Eastern Okanogan County focuses on fragmentation and turnover in large, agricultural properties and the effects of these trends.
read moreof Ranchland Ownership in Okanogan County, WAImpacts of Energy Development in Colorado, with a Case Study of Mesa and Garfield Counties
— This report explores the significance of fossil fuel energy development for Colorado with a case study of the implications for the West Slope economy.
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Sequoia National Forest Workshops
— Headwaters Economics held a public workshop for the Sequoia National Forest and the public.
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Land Use Effects of Paving Rural Roads
— This report, a first step toward understanding how paving rural roads impacts land use, reviewed eight projects in western Montana
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The Changing Economy of Southeast Alaska
— Headwaters Economics is working with the Tongass Futures Roundtable to better understand Southeast Alaska’s economy.
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High Divide GIS Data
— Headwaters Economics developed historical and forecasted housing data for the High Divide based on county tax assessor records. Download GIS data showing 2013 home counts per Public Land Survey Section.
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Montana Wildfire Cost Study- Technical Report
— This report examines how residential development adds to the costs of fighting wildfires, using Montana as a case study.
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The Economy of the Gila Region
— This report explores the question of whether and how rural, isolated communities can benefit from being gateways to large expanses of public lands.
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Wildfires: Development and Temperature Impact Cost and Safety
— Headwaters Economics has studied wildfires across the West, analyzing how more homes near forests and increasing temperatures will significantly increase future costs and safety risks.
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The Potential Economic Impacts of the Badlands Wilderness in Central Oregon
— This report explores whether and how designation of the Badlands as Wilderness would benefit the communities and economy of Central Oregon, including Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties.
read moreof The Potential Economic Impacts of the Badlands Wilderness in Central Oregon
The Union Pacific Railroad Line, Timber and Southwest Montana
— This report examines the importance of southwest Montana timber to the Union Pacific Railroad line, and the significance of the railroad as a mode of transportation for timber-related manufacturers.
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Timber, Restoration Forestry and Wilderness in Northeast Washington
— This study reviews the possible impacts of the Northeast Washington Forestry Coalition's "Blueprint" proposal for managing National Forest lands in the region.
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Santa Fe National Forest Workshop
— The workshop involved the public in developing a new Forest Plan in light of the socioeconomic situation of the area and how it has changed since the last Forest Plan was adopted.
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