Most people don’t think about the economic impact of activities ranging from hunting and fishing to cycling and wildlife watching.
But a new study by the nonprofit Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership found they contribute nearly $4 billion every year to the economy on the Delmarva Peninsula.
The study found that some 1.6 million people hunt, fish or watch wildlife on Delmarva and spend $1.5 billion.
Recreational activities garnered another $1.3 billion while activities like camping biking and trail-based travel provided another 1 billion dollars.
The study also found another $830 million came in from trip-related sales.
But, the Wilmington News Journal reports that Delaware state and local officials say limited public access and infrastructure for such things as tours and rental facilities have kept the ecotourism from growing even more.