Interior activities generated $3 billion in Montana last year

The U.S. Department of the Interior’s activities in energy, recreation, non-fuel minerals, irrigation and conservation contributed to $3 billion in economic activity and 25,000 jobs in Montana in fiscal year 2018, according to the department’s economic report released Tuesday.

During that fiscal year, the report found activities in Montana on Interior-managed lands supported 14,500 jobs and generated $760 million through recreation. Energy and mineral development in Montana reportedly accounted for 4,330 jobs and $562 million in value added from energy and mineral development; and 1,620 jobs and $105 million came from major grants and payments.

Across the country, Interior activities contributed to $315 billion in economic output and 1.8 million jobs in fiscal year 2018. In fiscal year 2016, these activities supported $254 billion in economic output and 1.6 million jobs.

Nationwide, public Interior-managed lands such as national parks saw an estimated 486 million visits in fiscal year 2018. These visits generated approximately $58 billion in economic output and 452,000 jobs.

The state with the largest contribution to Gross Domestic Product, economic output and employment through Interior activities was Texas, with $24 billion in economic output and 113,000 jobs. Other top contributing states included New Mexico, Wyoming, Colorado, California and Louisiana.

“As the stewards of our public lands and waters, we are committed to being a good neighbor and serving alongside local communities,” Interior Secretary David Bernhardt said in a news release The release also stated “prospects are high” for Interior-generated economic activity in fiscal year 2019.

Reporter Bret Anne Serbin may be reached at bserbin@dailyinterlake.com or 758-4459.