Bozeman values are grounded in well, the ground. Environment, agriculture, mining, and logging have all been on the forefront of Montanan economy, but recently, things are shifting. It’s moving from the thought of land as a thing from which riches are taken to one where riches are brought because of the land and its opportunities, according to a report by Bozeman-based nonprofit research firm Headwaters Economics.
There is an urge to see land as an economic asset. With this trend comes new data that links Montana’s economic viability to the diversification of employment that pivots around the LAND. The ability to rely on our land has led to Montana outpacing the nation in employment and personal income and income per person growth.
Services such as health care, real estate, government/professional, and scientific/technical services are all interlinked to the health of the land.
“Talking about Montana as an unspoiled place with spectacular natural amenities is our ace in the hole, economically. It’s how we’re attracting the diversity we’ve been able to attract,” Ray Rasker, executive director of the Headwaters Economics non-profit research firm, said.
Jason Bacaj may be reached at jasonb@dailychronicle.com or 582-2635.
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