Extension helps Nevada counties gather planning, economic data

When county governments in Nevada apply for grants, want to assess the potential impact of a new industry or respond to federal public land inquiries, they can turn to the Nevada Economic Assessment Project for in-depth, up-to-date data and analysis. 

Led by Extension professionals with the University of Nevada, the project collects and maintains baseline information on general demographic, social, economic, fiscal, land use and industry data. Local governments, especially those in rural and frontier areas of the state, don’t always have the resources — whether time, money or expertise — to gather and analyze data.  

The project arms counties with information that aids in crucial decision-making processes, like whether to invest in a project and how it might benefit residents and tourists. It also helps them bolster grant applications. Other entities such as state agencies have made use of the extensive data archive, too. 

“We are really impressed that the information is county specific,” said one county’s regional development executive director. “The availability of the baseline is needed to determine impacts, and how to quantify them.” 

Data collection and studies through the Nevada Economic Assessment Project have led to positive outcomes. For example, ground was broken on construction at a lithium mining and processing facility in Humboldt County after an analysis through the project showed more than $2 billion in economic impacts over the estimated lifespan of the mine. And a comprehensive analysis of hunting in Nevada showed that every dollar spent on hunting in a rural county generates $1.29 of total economic output; in urban counties, that figure is $1.59. 

County leaders find the project database to be user friendly and helpful in their work. 

“I was most excited about having some centralized place where I could use that information when I’m trying to write letters and develop some policy position for the county,” said a county natural resource director.

View the full statement on the NIDB.

Project supported by County Funding; Non-Profit Grants and Contracts.