Econonmic effects of river recreation on local economies

Abstract

Outdoor recreation is a major, growing use of water resources in the United States. The economic effects of expenditures by visitors to three recreational river sites on local economies surrounding the sites were estimated using an input-output model (IMPLAN). Expenditure data were from the Public Area Recreation Visitors Study (PARVS). Results indicate that visitor spending stimulates a considerable amount of economic activity and growth in local economies. Economic effects include increases in total gross output ranging from $2.6 million to $13.4 million, increases in total income ranging from $1.2 million to $5.6 million, and increases in employment ranging from 60 to 292 jobs.

Keywords

River resources, outdoor recreation, expenditures, local economic effects, input-output

Citation

Cordell, H. Ken; Bergstrom, John C.; Ashley, Gregory A.; Karish, John. 1990. Econonmic effects of river recreation on local economies. Water Resources Bulletin 23(1): 53-60