New Mexico launches survey on economic impact of off-road recreation

State wildlife officials want feedback from outdoors enthusiasts across New Mexico about their outdoor spending. The data will help state leaders measure how rural communities benefit from outdoor visitor dollars. Officials want responses from people who spend time outside.

The New Mexico Department of Wildlife created the inquiry to study travel costs. It covers expenses needed to get outside. Participants report spending on gear.

Questions focus on residents and visitors who backpack, dirt bike, or overland in New Mexico back-country areas. The department asks users how much money they spend on fuel, meals, lodging, and outdoor gear. It also asks about goods bought from local businesses.

Officials want clear figures. Agency leaders said the effort gathers data on financial impacts, especially for rural towns. Feedback will show total visitor spending in these remote spots.

State agencies study public land use to manage recreational trails and local resources. Public surveys gather direct spending reports from visitors to track financial trends across rural counties.

The agency released the questionnaire online for all outdoor travelers in New Mexico.