rock climbing research

Question
I am from Kansas, recently moved to Oregon where I have started rock climbing.  I love it! Specifically, I am from Topeka, Ks.  and I think that Topeka would benefit a lot from having an indoor rock climbing gym.  I want to make a presentation to the city council or whoever I have to present it to.  I was wondering if anyone knows if there is research on the economic benefits to a community that has an indoor rock gym?  Cultural benefits? Health benefits?   Any help would be great.  I'm having a hard time finding anything.  But there must be some research out there.  People usually do research before they invest in a business.

Answer
Dear Adam,

I've got no scientific information about the benefits of having climbing walls at schools, but I don't doubt they're many and wonderful.  Try this website:

http://www.epusa.com/EP_entry.php

The folks who make and sell climbing walls ought to be able to help you.

Bob Walton

P.S.  I'd be curious to know what you find out from any source.  I'd like to see our new middle school purchase a climbing wall.