A new report has quantified the significant economic contributions of New Hampshire's open spaces, revealing that these natural areas generate billions of dollars for the state's economy each year. The study, conducted by the Primrose Research Group, highlights the financial value of forests, farms, and waterways, which have long been appreciated for their recreational and environmental benefits.
The findings present a detailed economic case for land conservation, while also addressing the pressing challenge of balancing preservation with the growing demand for affordable housing. According to the report, industries directly tied to open spaces, such as recreation and agriculture, are major economic drivers for the state.
Key Takeaways
- A report by Primrose Research Group quantifies the economic and environmental benefits of New Hampshire's open spaces.
- The recreation industry, reliant on these spaces, generates nearly $3.9 billion in economic activity.
- The agricultural sector contributes over $500 million to the state's economy.
- The state faces the challenge of balancing land preservation with the development of nearly 5,000 acres of forest land each year for housing and other purposes.
- Stakeholder collaboration is identified as essential for creating sustainable development policies.
Quantifying the Economic Impact
The report, titled “The Benefits of New Hampshire’s Open Space,” provides concrete figures that underscore the financial importance of the state's natural landscapes. Commissioned by a coalition of environmental organizations, including the New Hampshire Association of Conservation Commissions, the study moves the conversation about open space beyond aesthetics and recreation to core economic principles.
One of the most significant findings is the economic power of the recreation sector. Activities like hiking, fishing, hunting, and skiing, which depend on undeveloped land and clean water, contribute an estimated $3.9 billion to New Hampshire's economy.
The agricultural industry also represents a substantial economic pillar supported by open land. The report values the economic output from farming at more than $500 million annually. These figures demonstrate that preserving farms and forests is not just an environmental goal but a vital component of the state's economic strategy.
Green Infrastructure Savings
The report notes that natural landscapes provide direct cost savings. For example, urban parks and forests, often referred to as green infrastructure, can reduce the energy demand of nearby buildings by as much as 10%, lowering utility costs for residents and businesses.
Environmental and Community Co-Benefits
Beyond the direct economic output, the report details numerous other benefits that contribute to the state's well-being. Preserving open spaces is crucial for protecting natural resources, including wetlands, streams, and aquifers that supply drinking water to communities across the state.
These natural systems also play a critical role in mitigating the effects of climate change. Michael J. Cohen, a board member of the NH Association of Conservation Commissions, emphasized the importance of this function.
“It is imperative we work to preserve and protect our wetlands, shorelands, streams, and aquifers, and protect forests and habitat diversity,” Cohen stated, highlighting the connection between conservation and public health and safety.
Healthy ecosystems help build resilience against extreme weather events such as intense floods and droughts, which have become more frequent. Forests and wetlands can absorb excess rainwater, reducing flood damage to infrastructure, while healthy aquifers provide a buffer during periods of low rainfall.
The report also links environmental health to public health. Warmer weather patterns in the region have led to an increase in ticks, more aggressive pollen seasons, and the spread of invasive species, all of which have direct impacts on human health.
The Housing Development Challenge
While the benefits of open space are clear, New Hampshire faces a significant challenge in balancing conservation with the urgent need for more affordable housing. The report acknowledges this tension directly, providing data that frames the scope of the issue.
Each year, almost 5,000 acres of forest land in New Hampshire are converted for development purposes. This ongoing land use change is driven by the state's need to accommodate a growing population and provide adequate housing, which is critical for attracting and retaining a skilled workforce.
A Balancing Act for Planners
The core conflict for policymakers and community leaders is how to support necessary economic development and housing construction without undermining the natural infrastructure that generates billions of dollars and provides essential environmental services. The report suggests that these goals are not mutually exclusive and can be achieved through strategic planning.
The central question is how to manage growth sustainably. The economic advantages of development must be weighed against the long-term value of the open spaces they might replace. This requires a comprehensive approach that involves careful planning and collaboration among diverse groups.
Strategies for a Balanced Future
The report concludes by outlining several strategies that New Hampshire municipalities can adopt to achieve a better balance between development and preservation. The authors stress that successful outcomes depend on bringing all relevant stakeholders to the table.
This includes collaboration between:
- Conservation commissions
- Town zoning and planning boards
- Private developers
- Community members and residents
By working together, these groups can identify best practices and create land-use policies that serve the entire community. One promising strategy highlighted is the concept of conservation developments. This approach encourages clustering homes and buildings on the least ecologically sensitive portions of a property while permanently preserving the most valuable natural areas.
Additional Sustainable Practices
Other recommended strategies for municipalities include:
- Investing in Renewable Energy: Supporting renewable energy projects can create jobs, boost economic growth, and reduce the environmental impact of development.
- Promoting a Circular Economy: Encouraging the reuse, recycling, and remanufacturing of materials can significantly reduce waste and conserve natural resources.
- Incentivizing Resource Efficiency: Towns can create incentives for developers to build energy-efficient buildings and use sustainable land management practices.
Ultimately, the report argues that economic prosperity and environmental sustainability can coexist. Through creative thinking and collaborative effort, New Hampshire can continue to build its competitive advantage, meeting its housing needs while protecting the natural resources that define the state and fuel its economy.