WSP06758

• File Number: 8507
• Description: Rio Grande Project
• State: CO
• Basin: Rio Grande
• Date: 8/1/1982
• Title: Buffalo Peaks Wilderness Study Area Report - Pike & San Isabel National Forests
• Water Supply Pro - Doc Type: Report/Study

that would be responsive to local issues, conditions, and
needs. These HRU's correspond to the Chaffee, Lake, and
Park County boundaries.

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1.

Population, Employment, and Income

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Mining related employement is important in the
HRU's, especially Lake County where over 30 percent
of the work force has been involved in this
activity. The tourist industry as well is an
important segment of the local economies. Incomes
generally have been below state average while
unemployment has been above the state average. Local
Government goals and objectives reflect the
dependency on many of the resources provided by the
nearby National Forest.

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Populations in the three HRU's is relatively small
wi th only about 25,000 people. Trends in recent
years indicate significant increases may be
expected, however, reaching double the current
figure by the year 2010.

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2.

Lifestyle

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The lifestyle in the HRU's is characterized by the
rural mountain setting. People are often reliant on
their own resources to supplement characteristically
low incomes or to offset high living costs. For
instance, fuelwood gathered from National Forest
land is often the major source of heat in the cold
climate. Recreation activities include use of the
Forest for hunting, fishing, picnicking, as well as
general enjoyment and sightseeing.

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3.

Attitudes, Beliefs, and Values

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Attitudes, beliefs, and values are generally
conservative. Attitudes reflect a recognition of
dependence on the Forest for the many resources it
can supply.

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