ISU Study: Turkey, Volga River Recreation worth $12.4 Million, 150+ jobs
AMES — Many of Iowa’s river towns are again embracing their waterfronts, and with good reason, according to a new statewide river use study by Iowa State University.
The ISU study showed overall economic impact from river recreation along 73 Iowa river and stream segments supported more than 6,350 jobs with $824 million in sales and $130 million of personal income.
“In addition to recreational benefits, the results show that there are sizable local economic benefits from spending by visitors,” said Dan Otto, professor of economics and an ISU Extension and Outreach economist.
Researchers in ISU’s Department of Economics and Center for Agricultural and Rural Development conducted the study with funding from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Turkey (above Elkader)
Total Trips: 182,619
Total Spending: $4,953,116
Common Activities:
· Fishing
· Camping
· Relaxation
· Wildlife viewing
Turkey (below Elkader)
Total Trips: 104,564
Total Spending: $2,836,058
Common Activities:
· Fishing
· Relaxation
Volga
Total Trips: 170,837
Total Spending: $4,633,560
Common Activities:
· Fishing
· Hunting
· Use of trails
· Relaxation
Full results of the study available at http://www.card.iastate.edu/environment/nonmarket_valuation/iowa_rivers/
Economic Impacts of River Trail Recreation in Iowa (PDF)