Audubon Southwest: Water recreation fuels about $437 million in Gila County economic activity

Hailey Paul, senior policy director for Audubon Southwest, told the Gila County Board of Supervisors on May 26 that a new county-level analysis finds water-based recreation drives meaningful local economic activity. "Gila County supports $437,000,000 of economic output annually" from recreation, Paul said, and the study estimates roughly "2,700 jobs are supported by water based recreation in Gila County."

The report, produced with consulting firm Southwick Associates, used a statewide resident survey and economic modeling to measure recreation days, tax contributions and job support. Paul said camping was the top activity in Gila County, followed by fishing, trail sports and wildlife watching, and that the report breaks results down by county so local officials can see what activities matter most to their constituents.

Supervisors thanked Paul and asked a few local questions: Supervisor Humphrey said the county receives many visitors from nearby Tucson and Phoenix, and Supervisor Klein noted the county's proximity to metro areas drives its recreation economy. Paul offered follow-up materials and said Audubon would leave executive summaries and county-specific packets with staff and may pursue site visits with lawmakers to increase visibility for watershed and landscape projects. "Audubon is a resource, and we look forward to continuing to work with you all," Paul said.

The presentation concluded with Paul offering to share the executive summary and to coordinate potential field visits for legislators and other decision-makers. The board did not take formal action; staff will keep the materials for future reference and possible follow-up.