Date of Award
5-2025
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Geography and Geology
First Advisor
Dr. Rex Cammack
Second Advisor
Dr. Bradley Bereitschaft
Abstract
The United States National Park Service (NPS), and especially its National Parks, has experienced rapid visitation increases since the early 2010s. Communities that surround National Parks often rely on park visitation for labor income, jobs, visitor spending, and general economic output. NPS sites that are promoted to the NPS’s highest designation of National Park typically receive increased funding and notoriety, leading to significant surges in visitation.
To analyze the economic effects that the increased visitation of newly promoted National Parks has on local economies, this study analyzes two National Parks: New River Gorge (NERI – promoted in 2020) and Pinnacles (PINN – promoted in 2013). This study assesses the percent change of both Tourism Sector Jobs (TSJ) and Median Household Income (MHI) by census tract. Using bivariate maps and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression analyses, this research illustrates economic changes from the year prior to park promotion to 2023. The study area includes census tracts intersected by a 48 km (30 mi.) buffer of each park’s perimeter.
By analyzing geographical patterns, statistical significance, and spatial relationships between economic changes and proximity to park entrances and visitor centers, this research aims to connect park promotions with local economic development, particularly through job creation and increased income. The results intend to guide future decisions on park promotions by the NPS, local/federal lawmakers, and advocacy groups.
Recommended Citation
Hennings, Joshua, "The Effects of National Park Redesignations on Local Economies" (2025). Geography and Geology Theses, Dissertations, and Student Creative Activity. 2.
https://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/geoggeolstudent/2
Abstract
Hennings_AnnotatedBibliography.pdf (148 kB)
Annotated Bibliography
Hennings_FinalDraft.pdf (1968 kB)
Full and final draft for poster and presentation
Comments
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This poster was presented at: 2025 American Association of Geographer's Annual Meeting in Detroit, Michigan, USA, from March 24, 2025 - March 28, 2025 Name of Presentation's Session: Cultural and Historical Geographies Poster Session. https://www.aag.org/events/aag2025/