The role of natural resource amenities in attracting retirees: implications for economic growth policy
| Authors: | Neelam C. Poudyal, Donald G. Hodges, H. Ken Cordell |
| Year: | 2008 |
| Type: | Scientific Journal |
| Station: | Southern Research Station |
| Source: | Ecological Economics, Vol. 68: 240-248. |
Abstract
Increasing criticism of resource-extractive and polluting heavy duty industries in urban
areas, as well as continuing declines in timbering, farming and mining in rural areas, have
created challenges for planners and policy makers seeking sustainable rural economies.
Earlier studies have concluded that a “retiree economy” is a viable approach for rural
economic sustainability. Using specific measures of natural amenities that are variant over
time; this study examined the role that natural amenity resources have played in attracting
retirees. Results reveal that the rural and biologically rich counties with substantial land use
diversity, water amenities, and other man-modified natural and recreational attractions
have great potential for attracting retirees. The findings from this study can be useful for
local and regional agencies to identity their latent potential to promote retiree economy, and
also to predict the future amenity demands. In addition, we draw other policy implications
regarding regional economic growth and ecological concern in rural America.