RURAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

CDTC 2022 Small Business Report

CDTC surveyed 136 small business owners in 38 communities located along the Continental Divide Trail to learn more about how the CDT impacts their businesses, the local economy, and their support for public lands.

90% believe protecting, promoting, and enhancing public lands is important to the wellbeing of businesses, jobs, and their community’s economy

78% believe protecting, promoting, and enhancing the Continental Divide Trail is important to the well-being of businesses, jobs, and their community’s economy.

80% have seen growth in business in their community at large due to use of the Continental Divide Trail Since 2014

70% support the 30x30 initiative to protect 30% of lands and waters by 2030, a goal aligned with the federal America the Beautiful Initiative

70% report that trail users spend money and have a positive impact on their revenue

Business Member Focus Group

Opportunities:

1. Trail Completion

2. Infrastructure & Transportation Investment

3. Promotion & Education of the Importance of the CDT

Challenges:

1. Trail Connectivity & Completion

2. Extreme Weather Events (wildfire, flood, etc.)

3. Creating Opportunities to Connect & Educate