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APPENDIX E SOCIOECONOMIC AND VISITOR USE ASSESSMENT Social Setting. Social values and lifestyles within the planning area are characteristic of rural counties in western Colorado. Agriculture (ranching, farming, and fruit production) is the primary land use with commercial support services located in towns. Slow, controlled growth is generally accepted. Ufestyles are primarily rural and a high value is placed on independence, open space, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Thus, the resources managed by the Federal Government are of interest to much of the population. Many residents value the rural character of the area as an important part of their lifestyles. An appreciation for the wide-open spaces, natural value, solitude and personal freedom is widespread. Many residents resent control of land or any kind of outside interference. Government participation in projects is generally solicited only when problems cannot be solved locally. Population. The Black Canyon economic planning area includes areas of three counties. The majority of the population is located near Montrose and Delta. Ouray County has both the lowest population and the lowest growth rate. The city of Grand Junction (population 28,144 in 1980) lies just outside of the planning area and is the largest population center in western Colorado. Population Area 1986 1970-1980 1980-1986 Population Change Change Delta County 22,972 + 40 percent + 7 percent Montrose County 25,240 + 34 percent + 3 percent Ouray County 1,866 + 23 percent -4 percent 3-county Region 50,078 + 36 percent + 4 percent Colorado 3,266,149 + 31 percent + 12 percent Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis 67