Travel and tourism are becoming an increasing contributor to West Virginias economic growth, according to a study issued today (Feb. 28) by the West Virginia University College of Business and Economics.

The study,Tourism and the West Virginia Economy,examines various sectors making up the travel and tourism industry and benchmarks performance against other key sectors of the economy from 1980-2004.

Travel and tourism is a unique industry, spanning all or parts of many other sectors of the West Virginia economy,said Dr. Tom S. Witt, co-author of the report.Our report provides a useful comparison of indictors such as employment and gross state product across various industries, including those making up travel and tourism.

We find continued sustained industry growth, particularly in comparisons with retrenchments in other major industry sectors such as mining, manufacturing and transportation/public utilities,Witt added.Of particular note is the sustained growth in the industry since the downturn after Sept. 11, 2001.

The report was issued at a press conference at the West Virginia Division of Tourism. The event was held in conjunction with Tourism Day at the West Virginia Legislature.

The study was undertaken by the WVU Bureau of Business and Economic Research. The study authors are Witt, BBER director, and Mark Fletcher, BBER undergraduate research assistant and junior marketing major. Witt also serves as the associate dean for research and outreach in the College of Business and Economics.

The study is available at www.be.wvu.edu/comm/tourism.pdf or can be ordered for $20 plus applicable tax by calling 304-293-7835.