Economic Impacts of Recreational Spending on Rural Areas: A Case Study

Abstract

Researchers, planners, and policymakers are becoming increasingly interested in the rural economic development potentials of outdoor recreation. Empirical evidence evaluating this economic development potential, however, is almost nonexistent. In this article, results of a study that examined local economic effects of spending associated with outdoor recreation in selected rural areas are reported. Recreational expenditures were collected as part of the Public Area Recreation Visitors Study (PARVS). Economic impacts of these expenditures were estimated using regional input-output models developed from the USDA Forest Service input-output model and data base system (IMPLAN). Results indicated that recreational spending contributed substantially to gross output, income, employment, and value added in the studied rural areas. These results suggest that outdoor recreation may be a viable rural economic development strategy.