Outdoor Recreation Report
The Jay Kemmerer WORTH Institute at the University of Wyoming, in partnership with the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Office, compiles annual reports to document several key elements of how outdoor recreation contributes to Wyoming communities.
Gap Analysis Report
The WORTH Gap Analysis report analyzes the employment gaps, workforce development and training needs, and the extant educational and training opportunities in Wyoming as it relates to supporting the travel industry. Findings are based on information available from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the Wyoming Office of Tourism, and other official sources.
Outdoor Recreation Research
According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account (ORSA), outdoor recreation is a major contributor to Wyoming’s economy. In 2023, outdoor recreation in Wyoming contributed $2.1 billion, 4.1 percent of the state’s GDP which is the 5th highest in the nation. Outdoor recreation employment in Wyoming is 15,759 accounting for 5.3 percent of the state's total employment (4th highest percentage in the U.S.).
Nationally, outdoor recreation makes a $1.2 trillion total contribution to the US economy and employs 5 million. Explore the below graphics for more information.
Research examples:
- Database for Jackson Hole Travel & Tourism Board
- Teton County Visitor Survey
- Resident Sentiment Surveys
Economic Impact Reporting
The WORTH Institute conducts in-depth economic impact research to support data-driven decision-making across Wyoming’s tourism and hospitality sectors. Through forecasting models and regional analysis, the institute provides insights into employment, revenue trends, and tax contributions. This research helps communities and policymakers plan for sustainable economic growth.
- The Economic Impact of the Wyoming State Fair and Fairgrounds
- The Scope and Economic Impact of Wyoming's Film Economy
- The Scope and Economic Impact of Wyoming's Arts and Culture Economy
- Jackson Hole Economic Forecasting - May 2025
- Jackson Hole Economic Forecasting - April 2025
- Jackson Hole Economic Forecasting - March 2025
- Jackson Hole Travel & Tourism Board Research
Student Capstone Projects
Below are examples of capstone project reports from students in the Outdoor Recreation
and Tourism Management degree program. If you are interested in working with our students
on a project, please contact us.
- Tourism Assessment of the Great American Rail Trail (Bighorn Basin)
- OHV Trails and Economic Development Strategy (Southwest Wyoming)
- Roger Canyon Recreation Plan (Laramie)
- Angler Perceptions of Trout Mortality (Upper North Platte River Basin)
- Search and Rescue Report (Statewide SAR analysis)
The faculty, staff, and researchers associated with the Jay Kemmerer WORTH Institute provide enterprise research services for companies, agencies, and organizations primarily in Wyoming. Are you interested in our research services?
Request research services by completing the form below:
