U.S. National Wildlife Refuges protect our country’s natural heritage, offer countless recreation opportunities, provide habitat for plants and animals, and improve quality of life for millions of Americans. In addition to these important benefits, refuges are also important economic drivers.
According to a new peer-reviewed report released by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, refuges support over 35,000 jobs and contribute $2.4 billion to the economy, annually. Every year, refuges see over 46 million visitors, many of whom support local economies by eating at restaurants, staying in hotels, and shopping at local businesses. This is great news for Illinois, which is home to 7 refuges, including the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge which stands above the rest in economic returns.
The 240,000-acre Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge spans 261 river miles and four states: Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. In 2011, recreational visitors to the refuge generated $226 million in economic effects on a budget of $4.9 million. That’s right, the Upper Mississippi generated $46 for every $1 spent! The refuge also supports 1,394 jobs.
In a time of economic recovery, we can’t afford not to invest in our refuges. Our investments will continue to pay high dividends in the form of enhanced recreation, natural habitats, quality of life, and of course, cold, hard cash.
Full press release: National Wildlife Refuges Support Over 35,000 Jobs, Pump $2.4 Billion into Local Communities: Banking on Nature Report Finds Refuges Continue to Be Powerful Economic Engines
For more information on the Upper Mississippi River National Fish and Wildlife Refuge, click here.
