filed under: economics of trails
Oakridge provides but one example of a rural community experiencing economic and social decline.
The city of Oakridge, Oregon has seen a measurable increase in the number of mountain bike visitors over the last five years. These visitors are providing a needed boost in their economy, which was historically based in natural resource extraction. While some literature exists on the economic impact of mountain bikers at larger geographic scales (county, state, or national levels), very little exists at a community level. This research uses existing data to determine the economic impact of mountain bikers in Oakridge. Furthermore, as economic development is inexplicably linked with community development, the study also examines the social impacts of mountain bike tourism in Oakridge. Through key informant interviews, the attitudes and perceptions of local residents and business owners were obtained. By identifying barriers and opportunities to future development, this research presents strategies to increase local spending while maintaining community values.
Published June 2014
Everything you need to know about the positive impact of trails on health, environment, economics, and more.
2022 CDT Small Business Survey
As a connector of landscapes, communities, and cultures, the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT) provides a setting for community members, decision makers, conservationists, outdoor enthusiasts, and everyone connected to the lands and waters of the Divide, to come together to discuss how to steward the vital natural, cultural, and historic resources found across its entirety. With this report, the Continental Divide Trail Coalition hopes to highlight the role of the cooperative stewardship model in the management of the CDT, what we accomplished in 2021, and what we are looking forward to in 2022.
An Examination of the Economic Impacts of Operations and Capital Spending by Local Park and Recreation Agencies on the U.S. Economy
The Future of the Outdoor Recreation Economy - Headwaters Economics
The future for outdoor recreation. To continue building a robust future for outdoor recreation, the outdoor sector needs investments in outdoor infrastructure, businesses that support collaboration and sustainable growth, a talent pipeline to build a skilled workforce, and marketing resources that ensure quality and equity.
