WATERTOWN — According to its recently released economic impact report, Fort Drum pumped nearly $1.5 billion for fiscal year 2021 into the regional economy of the North Country, a 4.6% increase from the prior fiscal year.
According to the report, the increase was “primarily due to a 3% increase in payroll for Fort Drum Soldiers and a 2.7% increase for civilians, who received a cost of living increase at the beginning of 2021.”
Fort Drum has more than 30,000 soldiers and family members. In addition, there are 3,912 civilians working on the installation in support of 10th Mountain Division soldiers and families, the report said, adding that more than 19,000 military retirees and their dependents also live in the North Country.
The report identifies Fort Drum as the largest employer in northern New York with 15,656 soldiers and the 3,912 civilians (including contractors) working on or near the installation. Military and civilian…
