Udall: Outdoor recreation economy outpacing U.S. financial growth

"Nature is the lifeblood of Colorado’s economy, Mark Udall said in a speech on the Senate floor Tuesday, as he urged his colleagues to protect lands in the San Juan Mountains and pass his ski area summer recreation bill.

“When we talk about natural resources, we aren’t just talking about beautiful landscapes and future generations,” the senator said. “There are incredibly important economic benefits to preserving and protecting these lands.”

Public lands are critical drivers for rural economies across the nation, he said, citing a 2006 study that found biking, hiking, hunting, and other outdoor recreation activities add $730 billion annually to the U.S. economy."

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