Since the start of the pandemic, Lander, Wyoming has experienced an influx of visitors as people seeking outdoor activities in less populated areas. Many outdoor enthusiasts have been attracted to the region’s scenic beauty and outdoor activities.

Across the United States, the outdoor recreation sector has seen significant growth due to the surge in demand for outdoor activities during the pandemic. New data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis indicates that outdoor recreation contributed over $1 trillion in economic output in 2022, making it a significant force in the economy, comprising 2.2% of the national GDP.

Despite this growth and potential for local economies, many rely on public lands maintained by federal workers. There are concerns about the possibility of a government shutdown affecting these areas, which could have a significant impact on mountain towns such as Lander.

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