Western Issues: Changing Economy

Open space, outdoor recreation, sublime scenery, access to protected public land, and quality of life – these are the West’s competitive advantage in the changing global economy. The Sonoran Institute works toward a vision of the West with healthy landscapes, vibrant communities and a resilient economy where conservation and prosperity go hand-in-hand.

Growth and Land Use

Both small communities with “amenity” growth and fast-growing urban mega-regions are affecting regional economies in the West. The Sonoran Institute researches these impacts to help inform community decisions and public policies.

Mining Policy & Impacts Research

Sonoran Institute research characterizes local and regional economies and the risks to them by mining development on public lands and also informs the debate on reform of the 1872 Mining Law.

Public Lands

The Institute researches the changing roles of public lands in the West’s economy and how that affects the region’s prosperity.