The town and county would like to use trail counter and other data to more effectively understand and communicate how trails are used now, how residents and visitors use and experience trails, the economic impact of trails in the region, and identify future trail and trail infrastructure needs. Such information can help Mammoth Lakes and Mono County: • Demonstrate current demand for trail-based recreation in the Mammoth Lakes area to help leaders understand patterns of use; • Forecast demand in 5-10 years to inform investments in new and existing recreation infrastructure for the trail system master plan update; and • Present objective data regarding current trail use and user attitudes to facilitate communication and strengthen relationships with other entities involved with recreation management in the region such as land managers, user groups, and county and state government agencies. • Identify economic impacts of trails to the region’s economy, including jobs, labor income, and visitor spending, and tax revenue.
