Salk, RaintryErkkila, Daniel L.Schneider, Ingrid E.2015-03-022015-03-022005https://hdl.handle.net/11299/170213Increasingly, the nature based and wildlife recreationist market is an attractive niche for communities seeking to enhance and diversify their economic base. According to a 2004 MN survey, the most important reason Minnesotan's participated in outdoor recreation was to enjoy nature. Further, passive recreation and learning (including nature observation and visiting nature centers) were among the most favored recreation activities with 40% participating. In Minnesota's northwest region, almost four out of ten cities reported the development need for nature or interpretive centers. This information, coupled with local interest, spurred the market and economic analysis for a bird observatory and nature visitor center facility in Crookston.ennature based tourismwildlifeoutdoor recreationnature centernorth regionbird watchingbird observatoryRed River ValleyparticipationEconomic impactReport