Tribes impact state's economy

DENVER – A recent analysis highlights a significant statewide economic impact by the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, both in Southwest Colorado.

The tribes – along with Alaskan Natives of Colorado – contribute more than $1.5 billion in economic impact, creating more than 8,800 direct jobs and another 12,539 indirect jobs. Earnings from these jobs are estimated at more than $549 million, despite Native Americans accounting for only 1.6 percent of the Colorado population.

It is estimated there are more than 500 businesses, nonprofits, government agencies and events owned by or focused on Native Americans that impact the economy in Colorado, according to the Colorado American Indian and Alaska Native Economic Impact Report, released Tuesday by the Colorado Commission of Indian Affairs, the Denver American Indian Commission and the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade.

http://www.durangoherald.com/article/20150729/NEWS01/150729565/0/NEWS01/Tribes-have-statewide-economic-impact---