The study was commissioned by the National Wildlife Federation, the Sierra Club, and the Wilderness Society. The study analyzes the role recreation and tourism play in local economies in the Little Missouri National Grasslands and the Sheyenne National Grasslands region, and the impact the Forest Service's proposed changes in the management of these lands would have on the state's ranching, oil and gas industries. Tourism has quadrupled as a portion of North Dakota's economy during the last decade. While agriculture has decreased, tourism in North Dakota has steadily grown and now makes up nearly the same size share of the state's economic base as energy.
Tourism is likely to be an ongoing source of new jobs and income in the future.
The Forest Service's proposed new management plan for the National Grasslands would not have any impact on current oil and gas production in North Dakota. The proposed Forest Service alternative offers an investment in the future economic growth of North Dakota. North Dakota's National Grasslands are an important tourist destination and venue for outdoor recreation such as hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and other activities. The grasslands are also habitat for a broad range of wildlife, including mule deer, sage grouse, ring-necked pheasant, sharp tailed grouse, and wild turkey. The best way to make sure our local communities stay strong is to generate revenue from as many sources as possible.