Cherokee National Forest Wilderness and the Monroe County Economy
Monroe is a fast-growing county in southeast Tennessee. Along with Polk and McMinn, Monroe is home to the southern section of the Cherokee National Forest, including the Citico Creek and Bald River Gorge Wildland Areas, and a portion of the Joyce Kilmer Slickrock Wilderness Area.
To some, rapid growth and protected wildlands may seem at odds. But economic research and the experience of communities across the nation indicates that those two hands are pulling in the same direction. Wilderness Areas support diverse economic opportunities. Monroe County's existing protected areas support robust economic development and further protection would enhance benefits for the future.
About Spencer R. Phillips, Ph.D.
Spencer Phillips is a natural resource economist who has been with The Wilderness Society's scientific team since 1992. His economic work has focused on helping people, communities and institutions realize the benefits of wildland conservation.... More about Spencer R. Phillips, Ph.D.
