While tourist season chugs along, local business experts will discuss what else drives the local economy.

This Thursday, the Sustainability Alliance of Southwest Colorado will sponsor “The Businesses that Drive Our Local Economy” as part of its bi-monthly Sustainability Dialogue. The free event takes place from 5:30–7:30 p.m. in Durango City Council Chambers, 949 E. Second Ave., and is open to the public.

Ed Morlan, director of Region 9 Economic Development District, will present the findings from the Sustainability Alliance’s “Driver Study,” which seeks to identify and examine the base industries that bring in “outside” dollars to re-circulate within the local economy. The Driver Study looked at such factors as the total number of jobs in La Plata County and how the number of base jobs and supporting jobs are associated. It is hoped that the findings can help in policy making, growth planning and economic development.

The presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer session, and citizens and business owners are also asked to suggest their own ideas on improving the economic health of La Plata County.

For more information, visit: www.sustainableSWcolorado.org