Lander, Wyoming saw an influx of visitors in early 2020 as people felt restless at home but also wanted to avoid getting sick. The region’s scenic beauty and outdoor activities attracted many outdoor enthusiasts. However, the surge in outdoor recreation wasn’t limited to Lander alone. Across the United States, the outdoor recreation sector has experienced significant growth since the start of the pandemic. New data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis indicates that outdoor recreation contributed over $1 trillion in economic output in 2022. This sector has become a significant force in the economy, comprising 2.2% of the national GDP.
Despite its growth potential for local economies, many of them rely on public lands maintained by federal workers. Concerns have been raised about the possibility of a government shutdown affecting these areas, which could have a significant impact on mountain towns such as Lander. As a result, it is essential to ensure that public lands are adequately funded and protected for future generations to enjoy their benefits.
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