The recreation industry in the region was similar to farming, ranching, and mining in earlier times in the sense that it was based on utilizing natural resources for economic gain. Just like farming, ranching, and mining, the recreation industry relied on the region's natural beauty and outdoor resources such as mountains, rivers, wildlife, and forests to attract visitors and generate revenue. Additionally, just as how farming, ranching, and mining industries could negatively impact the environment, the recreation industry also has the potential to disrupt natural habitats and ecosystems.