Integrating the Local Economy and Natural Resources in the Planning Process

Land Use Tracker, Summer 2003

The left column in Table 1 lists four major characteristics of the new local economic development concept described above, with examples applicable to rural communities in the right column.

Table 1: Local Economic Development for Rural Communities

New Concept

Examples **

Identify jobs that match the needs and/or skills of local population

Retain jobs related to the delivery of natural resources and recreation services and information to the public 

e.g., The Florence Natural Resource and Wild Rivers Interpretive Center in Florence County

Create a quality community with its own uniqueness to attract newcomers and businesses

Identify and market local uniqueness: market local quality of life and emphasize its importance as a recruitment tool and an important part of creating a happy and productive workforce.

e.g., The “Work & Play” Program in Burnett County

Build new economic institutions and networks to improve relationships and increase dialogues among different businesses 

Create a regional organization to establish a networking relationship among local and countywide economic development professionals to share information and experiences and build capacity for economic development in the region. 

e.g., The Northwoods Regional Development Group (NWRDG) in Oneida County.

Continuous education and job training to sustain a quality workforce

Create a certification program in a local high school to train local youth to become skilled workforce in the secondary wood products industry.

e.g., WoodLINKS Program: Workforce Training for Youth in Forest County

Source: modified from Blakely, 1994, Community and Economic Development Toolbox, & Center for Community and Economic Development – Northern Edge Project.

**Detail summary of the examples listed could be found on the Center for Community and Economic Development – Northern Edge Project website