The BACC partnered with the Access Fund and Dr. James Maples of Eastern Kentucky University to conduct an economic impact study of rock climbing in the Bishop Area. Dr. James Maples is an Associate Professor of Sociology and the Director of the Division of Regional Economic Assessment and Modeling (DREAM) at Eastern Kentucky University. More information on Dr. Maples' research and methodology can be found here.
The purpose of this study was to try and better understand how visiting climbers impact the local economy, so it can help inform decision-making around sustainable recreation and economic growth in the Bishop Area.
Data collection for this study kicked off in the end of 2019 and ran through the pandemic closures in May 2020. The results of this study were released to the public last summer. Surveying was conducted by BACC volunteers in person to capture data on climber expenditures, use patterns, and Leave-No-Trace (LNT) knowledge as it pertains to climbing impacts.
Some key findings from the study are listed below and summarized in this video by Dr. Maples.
Climbers visiting Bishop/Inyo County spend an estimated $15.6 million annually in Bishop and Inyo County in a typical year.
Climbers are an important contributor to the Bishop and Inyo County economy, spending an estimated $155 per person per trip not including lodging. Climbers reported spending around $83 per person per trip when staying in hotels, $20 when camping, and $71 when choosing rental cabins/homes.
Climber expenditures support $5.1 million in local wages and an estimated 127 total jobs in a typical year.
Due to COVID-19’s impacts on visitation, Bishop and Inyo County lost over $10 million in potential climber expenditures.
Climbers are aware of Leave No Trace knowledge which helps protect climbing areas from environmental impacts.
Climbers are well-educated, with 54% holding a bachelor degree and 24% holding advanced degrees.
Climbers possess high personal incomes, with nearly one in three having incomes over $75K annually.
The full report is available for download here!