Discovering and applying new and innovative economic development tools, models, policies, and programs
Creating Jobs and Wealth in Distressed Michigan Communities
2015: An Assessment of the Effects of Mountain Biking in Marquette and on Michigan's Ecotourism Economy
Co-Learning Plan - 2015
Authors: Scott Jordan, Ph.D., Northern Michigan University
Summary
Mountain biking is an ecotourism activity that has been growing in popularity across the country and especially in Michigan. As interest in mountain biking has increased, a number of individuals and organizations have contributed in developing and expanding the trail systems in and around Marquette. Marquette is situated among the hills and valleys of Michigan's North Central Upper Peninsula on the south shore of Lake Superior. This area became an epicenter for mountain biking due to local investment in the development of a trails system offering riding experiences for all levels of cyclists. Advancement of the trails system was intended to create superb riding as well as to create a cycling economy. This analysis examined the economic effects and sustainability that the sport of mountain biking has on the Marquette area of Michigan's Upper Peninsula and on the state of Michigan.
Project Updated As Of September 30th, 2015
Author Information
Scott Jordan, Northern Michigan University
Dr. Jordan currently is employed as an Assistant Professor at Northern Michigan University (NMU) in the Outdoor Recreation Leadership and Management degree program, and has a seventeen year history of working as a professional in the field of Outdoor Recreation. An aspect of Dr. Jordan's experience is the operation of a private challenge course and zip line canopy tour construction business. As a professor, Dr. Jordan teaches several courses including an upper level business based leisure services management course, and an evaluation and assessment course. He has also aided in the development of a course named Entrepreneurial Thinking in Outdoor Recreation and an Adventure and Ecotourism course with the hope of developing curriculum that will aid in the development of an ecotourism job market in the Upper Peninsula. When not teaching Dr. Jordan is an avid cyclist who has an awareness of the impact of the mountain biking industry on local economies and the development of successful trails systems.
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