How to turn motorized rec into a sustainable economy

Mining and ranching is the main economy of Challis, Idaho. When the Thompson Creek Mining Company, a molybdenum mine west of Challis, ended their mining operations in 2014, the bust in the economy rattled the community. At its peak, the molybdenum mine employed around 400 people, accounting for more than half of Custer County’s tax roll. Today, around 50 remain. “They were the largest employer but now they are probably the second largest,” said Greg Webster, owner of The Bent Rod outdoor store and president of Challis’ Chamber of Commerce. “They were like Santa Claus for everything and everyone. When that kind of stuff shuts down, it kind of kicks you in the stomach and makes you figure out what you are going to do next.” Like many communities in the West, Challis is looking to tourism to help diversify and bolster their economy.  “It is sort of the chicken and the egg,” said Webster. “There are a lot of communities that are quite the places to go for people to ride their bikes, little breweries popping up and little mountain-type groups. You have to get the trail systems so people know about it before you can get people to come.”While the community did not initiate the trail, the businesses that have shifted their business model and embraced the visitors are seeing an economic boost.