In Arizona, 75% of Hispanic-heritage voters support protecting more wilderness, according to a 2002 study by Bendixen & Associates. More than two-thirds strongly agreed that “if we don’t protect wilderness now, beautiful natural areas will disappear before our children and grandchildren have a chance to enjoy them.” The survey results did not vary with political party affiliation. [Source: Bendixen & Associates poll, April/May 2002.]

In 2001, states that attracted the most new citizens— Arizona among them—were leaders in their percentage of accessible public land. [Source: Outdoor Industry Association, Human Powered Outdoor Recreation State of the Industry Report , 2002.] Wilderness designation for the Tumacacori Highlands will ensure that a major portion of Arizona’s last untrammeled open space will remain untouched and available for public enjoyment.

In Arizona, 41.4% --or 1.6 million residents—take part in hiking annually. [Source: Outdoor Industry Foundation, Outdoor Recreation Participation and Spending Study, A State-by-State Perspective, 2002.] The Tumacacori Highlands offer an increasingly rare wilderness backcountry experience in Arizona and will help protect the spectacular wildlife habitat found throughout the Sky Island region.

A University of Arizona study done in the Upper San Pedro River Basin, to the east of Santa Cruz County, estimated that visitors spent $10 to $16 million in one year on associated travel and food in the Ramsey Canyon Preserve and San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area. These rich bird habitats draw thousands of visitors per month. The new Tumacacori wilderness is likely to draw increased tourism revenue as well.

While Santa Cruz County’s dependence on extractive resources has declined in recent decades, the Service industry workforce has more than doubled since 1980, indicating a sharp increase in tourism and accommodations. Many come to Santa Cruz County for its rich cultural and natural history. The Tumacacori Highlands offer a unique destination for the adventurous spirit.

Arizona residents that recreate in the outdoors pump $269 million into the state economy annually through purchases of outdoor equipment and merchandise. [Source: Outdoor Industry Foundation, Outdoor Recreation Participation and Spending Study, A State-by-State Perspectiv e, 2002.] As visitor numbers increase to the new Tumacacori Highlands wilderness, local economies can expect a surge in revenue from outdoor gear demand and the services that draw visitors.