Matt chats with Utah State professor Paul Jakus about his recently released study which examines the economic impact of the Grand Staircase-Escalante Monument, critically important research given the strong possibility that the Trump Administration may propose to shrink the monument. Dr. Jakus’ study, which was covered in the Salt Lake Tribune, found that the nearly 20-year old-monument in south central Utah has not had a strong effect on the local economy — positive or negative. Matt and Paul talk generally about the region’s economy and the various factors that might be hindering additional outdoor recreation-led job growth. They also talk about the effect of the monument on both cattle grazing and fossil fuel extraction, covered thoroughly in his research. For more information, check out the USU Center for Society, Economy and the Environment, with which Dr. Jakus is affiliated.