WVU Extension Service Working Paper on how mountain biking and mountain biking facilities can bring an array of benefits to rural communities.
In the U.S., an estimated 50 million people (20% of Americans 16 and over) mountain bike. Mountain biking and mountain biking facilities can bring an array of benefits to rural communities. They leverage communities’ natural assets to create places that are attractive to visitors, businesses, and both new and current residents. Documented benefits include health benefits for local users, increased tourism and economic development opportunities, and benefits to the local environment.
Although communities are often concerned about low wages and the seasonal nature of tourism, data suggest that recreation opportunities can generate significant economic impacts. There are multiple examples of how small towns, especially those transitioning from economies dominated by natural resource extraction are leveraging their natural resources for outdoor recreation tourism, and mountain biking specifically.
Attached document published May 2019
2023 Economic Contribution of Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation in Colorado
posted Apr 24, 2024
Colorado offers unique opportunities for motorized recreation throughout much of the state. As such, the sport and industry of motorized recreation has increased in popularity in Colorado, both for residents and non-residents. Abt Global, LLC (Abt) evaluated the economic contribution of motorized recreation throughout Colorado for the 2022–2023 season (July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023). This study is an update based on a previously conducted study, completed in December 2016, that estimated the economic contribution for the 2014–2015 season, referred to as the “2016 study” in this report.
Wisconsin ATV - UTV 2023 Economic Impact Report
posted Apr 24, 2024
In 2023, ATV/UTV riders in Wisconsin were responsible for generating an estimated $4.2 billion in direct economic activity, supporting the creation of 25,845 jobs. This spending was distributed across a wide range of industries including motor vehicle dealers, lodging facilities, restaurants, gas stations, and retail stores. The study provides detailed insights into the scope and size of Wisconsin’s ATV/UTV industry, demonstrating its significant economic footprint.
Bridging the Urban-Rural Economic Divide
posted Oct 26, 2023
It’s time for the narrative to shift from urban vs. rural to a shared economic future. Bridging the economic divide between urban and rural areas will require states, regions and localities to understand and bolster the relationship between urban and rural areas in economically meaningful and strategic ways.
Great Allegheny Passage Economic Impact Report
posted Oct 19, 2023
This report was developed by Fourth Economy in partnership with the Great Allegheny Passage Conservancy (formerly the Allegheny Trail Alliance). Research was conducted between the fall of 2020 and the spring of 2021.
288 views • posted 12/22/2020
