NICODEMUS — A new National Park Service economic impact report shows that 3,505 visitors to Nicodemus National Historic Site in 2012 spent more than $181,000 in communities near the park. That spending supported two jobs in the local area.

“Nicodemus National Historic Site is proud to welcome visitors from across the country and around the world,” said superintendent Angela Wetz in a news release.

“We are delighted to share the story of this place and the experiences it provides and to use the park as a way to introduce our visitors to this part of the country and all that it offers. National park tourism is a significant driver in the national economy – returning $10 for every $1 invested in the National Park Service — and it’s a big factor in our local economy as well. We appreciate the partnership and support of our neighbors and are glad to be able to give back by helping to sustain local communities.”

The peer-reviewed visitor spending analysis was conducted by U.S. Geological Survey economists Catherine Cullinane Thomas and Christopher Huber and Lynne Koontz for the National Park Service.

The report shows $14.7 billion of direct spending by 283 million park visitors in communities within 60 miles of a national park.  According to the report, most visitor spending supports jobs in restaurants, grocery and convenience stores (39 percent), hotels, motels and B&Bs (27 percent), and amusement and recreation venues (20 percent).

To learn more about national parks in Kansas and how the National Park Service works with Kansas communities to help preserve local history, conserve the environment, and provide outdoor recreation, go to www.nps.gov/Kansas.