At Local First, we like to say “think local, first” because small choices add up. Even directing a small portion of your spending, like 10%, toward locally owned businesses can have a meaningful impact here in La Plata County.
We often talk about the local multiplier effect. Studies consistently show that when you spend money at a locally owned business, a larger share of that dollar stays in the community. Local businesses tend to hire local workers, use local services and reinvest their profits here at home. That means your everyday purchases help circulate money through our economy, supporting jobs, nonprofits and community projects throughout La Plata County.
So what does that look like in practice? Start with the habits you already have. Think about your weekly routines coffee, groceries, home repairs, gifts or dining out. In many cases, there’s a locally owned option right here in Durango, Bayfield or Ignacio.
Maybe it means buying your morning coffee from Durango Coffee Co. instead of a national chain. Or, using the Durango Tool Library for your next home project. It might be purchasing a birthday gift from Pine Needle or Durango Sustainable Goods rather than that place that rhymes with “wamazon.” These choices alone won’t transform the economy overnight, but collectively they add up.
Food is another easy place to start. La Plata County is fortunate to have a vibrant network of farmers, ranchers and food producers. Shopping at the Durango and Bayfield farmers markets, joining the Durango Natural Foods Co-op, or choosing locally sourced products at Sunnyside Farms Market can keep more food dollars circulating in our region.
Another powerful step is simply becoming more aware of which businesses are locally owned. Many residents are surprised to discover how many independent businesses operate here, from outdoor gear shops and restaurants to accountants, printers, mechanics and child care providers. You can find an extensive list of local businesses in our online directory: https://member.local-first.org/member-directory.
If each of us simply shifted 10% or so of our spending toward locally owned businesses, the collective impact would be substantial. Small choices, made consistently by many people, can help build a stronger and more resilient local economy for all of us.
Ashley Christie is the executive director of Local First.
