GEARY COUNTY – According to the Kansas Department of Wildlife,Parks and Tourism,Geary County had a 5.1% growth in tourism for the 2015 year. The growth measured Lodging, Food & Beverage, Recreation,Transportation and Retail. The total tourism related spending in Geary County was $78.29 million.

Within the North Central portion of Kansas,Geary County ranked 3rd in all categories and 17th in Kansas for recreation spending. The breakdown for spending was as follows:$24.02 million for Transportation, $20.96 million for Food and Beverage,$14.65 for Lodging, $11.36 million for Retail and $7.30 million for Recreation.

According to Rick Dykstra ofthe Milford Lake Outdoors Alliance the partnerships between the Junction City/Geary County Convention and Visitors Bureau(CVB),Lodging Properties and Attractions has helped the growth in tourism.“I have no doubt that the leadership of the CVB has made a difference.We have seen them make an investment in tourism and it’s paying dividends” Rick said.

To read the complete report,visit: www.travelks.com/industry/research-and-reports/economic-impact/