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outdoor recreation economy

  • The Outdoor Recreation Economy by State

    The Outdoor Recreation Economy by State

    Megan Lawson, Ph.D.

    The outdoor recreation economy is large, growing faster than the overall economy, and consists of jobs in many industries. Explore data by state. Read more

  • Future-proofing the outdoor recreation economy

    Future-proofing the outdoor recreation economy

    Megan Lawson, Ph.D.

    Many outdoor recreation communities face outsized wildfire and flood risks. They must prioritize updating infrastructure, community planning, and emergency response. Read more

  • Building the outdoor recreation economy in natural resource-dependent communities

    Building the outdoor recreation economy in natural resource-dependent communities

    Megan Lawson, Ph.D.

    Lessons from communities dependent on natural resource extraction that have successfully diversified their economies with outdoor recreation. Read more

  • The economic potential of the Great American Rail-Trail

    The economic potential of the Great American Rail-Trail

    Megan Lawson, Ph.D.

    Through 12 states and the District of Columbia, the Great American Rail-Trail® will attract 25.6 million trips and generate more than $229.4 million in spending. Read more

  • The Future of the Outdoor Recreation Economy

    The Future of the Outdoor Recreation Economy

    Megan Lawson, Ph.D.

    The outdoor recreation economy is strong, diverse, and growing, helping communities thrive. Read more

  • Outdoor Recreation: A top driver of Wisconsin’s economy

    Outdoor Recreation: A top driver of Wisconsin’s economy

    Megan Lawson, Ph.D.

    The outdoor recreation economy contributes $7.8 billion, or 2.4% to Wisconsin’s GDP and generates more than 93,000 jobs across diverse sectors. Read more

  • Outdoor Recreation and New Mexico’s Economy

    Outdoor Recreation and New Mexico’s Economy

    Megan Lawson, Ph.D.

    Outdoor recreation is a way of life and economic powerhouse for New Mexico. New Mexico residents enjoy outdoor recreation on more than 35 million acres of public lands and the outdoor recreation economy directly supports $1.2 billion in income and 33,500 jobs. Read more

  • Newsletter: November 2019

    Headwaters Economics

    Our latest newsletter contains research on state trust lands in transition, state outdoor recreation economies, wildfire-resistant homes, and more. Subscribe to our newsletter. Read more

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