Two studies commissioned by a foundation set up by millionaire Roxanne Quimby suggest communities near national parks outpace the national average for economic development.

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) _ Elliotsville Plantation, which is considering donating more than 70,000 acres to create a national park, commissioned the studies to explore the potential economic impact.

Lucas St. Clair, president of the board and Quimby's son, said the reports provide evidence that a national park or a combined national park and recreation area "can help the economy to grow faster."

The reports compared 16 similar communities in the U.S. with a national park, a recreation area, or a combined national park and recreation area.

Quimby's proposal for a northern Maine park has drawn mixed opinions. The National Park Service remains enthusiastic but has taken no formal stance.

(Copyright 2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)