FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 28, 1998
CONTACT: Joanna Barrett 202/225-2165
CONGRESSMAN PETERSON ANNOUNCES SPORTSMEN
HAVE $4.8 BILLION IMPACT ON MINNESOTA ECONOMY
WASHINGTON, DC -- Congressman Collin C. Peterson (DFL-7th District) today announced that hunters, trappers and anglers contributed $2.4 billion to Minnesota’s economy in 1996 according to findings from an economic analysis released by the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation. According to Peterson, a Vice-Chairman of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, 1996 spending by hunting and fishing enthusiasts resulted in a $4.8 billion ripple effect throughout Minnesota, creating 62,296 jobs and $337 million in state and federal tax revenues.
“These statistics show that hunting, trapping and fishing aren’t just leisure activities, but major contributors to the state and national economy,” said Peterson.
More than $50 million in 1996 sporting-related spending went directly into on-the-ground management for state fish and wildlife conservation efforts. Of that amount, license sales account for $37.5 million. Fishing excise taxes amount to $7.2 million and excise taxes from hunting make up $6 million of the total.
“Outdoor sporting activities are vital to the state’s economic well being as well as to our way of life,” said Peterson. “The study puts things into perspective with regard to valuing wildlife and protecting our state’s natural resources.”
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