Economy
The Jicarilla Apache Nation's economy is based upon mining, forestry, gaming, tourism, retail and agriculture, including:
- Oil and gas wells, owned and operated by the tribe.
- Timber.
- Cattle and sheep ranching.
- Reservation government employees, which include about 50% of tribal members.
- Dulce business employees.
- Traditional arts, including basketry and pottery.
- Tribe-owned Apache Nugget Casino north of Cuba, New Mexico and the Best Western Jicarilla Inn and Casino in Dulce.
- The tribe also owns and operates radio station KCIE (90.5 FM) in Dulce, NM.
Although the mid twentieth century brought additional economic opportunities, high unemployment and a low standard of living prevails for tribal members. From the Tiller's Guide to Indian Country: Economic Profiles of American Reservations, 2005 edition:
- 2000 Average Per Capita Income – $10,136
- Unemployment rate – 14.2%
- Labor force – 1,1051
The Jicarilla people live in houses with a lifestyle similar to other Americans. The cost of food at local grocery stores is higher than found near larger U.S. cities. They have access to all modern conveniences and avail themselves according to their desires and financial ability. High unemployment and poverty level income rates have resulted in high crime rates, greatly contributed by a high incidence of methamphetamine abuse, averaging 1.7% of the United States Native American population and as high as 30% in some rural areas or reservations.
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