A recent analysis by the Institute of Outdoor Recreation and Tourism at Utah State University reveals that the creation of Bears Ears National Monument has influenced outdoor recreation and related industries in San Juan County. The study examined the impact of the 2016 designation and subsequent downsizing on local economic indicators and recreation participation.
Increase in recreation participation
Data from the research shows a 105.1% increase in outdoor recreation participation in the three years following the monument's creation in late 2016, when compared to a ten-year baseline from 2004 to 2013. While the concentration of outdoor recreation in the county was already increasing by 36.2% prior to the designation, the period after the monument's creation saw a 50.6% increase relative to the three years before its creation.
Growth in specific local industries
Several industries related to outdoor recreation experienced significant and positive economic expansion in the three years following the monument's establishment. These include retail trade, such as hardware and drug stores, as well as food services like restaurants. Professional, scientific, and technical services, including accounting, engineering, and law firms, also saw growth.
Stable economic activity levels
Other outdoor recreation-related industries maintained economic activity levels similar to the three-year period before the monument was created. These sectors include general and building construction, food and beverage stores, gas stations, and real estate, rental, and leasing services.
Drivers of economic growth
Researchers suggest this growth may stem from business owners responding to an actual or perceived increase in visitors willing to spend more money during their visits.
Implications for future local policy
The analysis suggests that while the monument's creation positively influenced certain industries, it did not affect all local recreation-related sectors equally. The findings suggest that local efforts to increase outdoor recreation should be paired with economic programs that help county industries capitalize on rising visitation.
