Final answer:
National parks contribute to the economy by creating job opportunities for local residents, primarily through stimulating tourism which generates revenue for regional economies.
Step-by-step explanation:
National parks contribute to the economy in a variety of ways, primarily through attracting tourism. This tourism leads to job opportunities for local residents and can generate significant revenue for the regional economy, as seen with places like Yosemite National Park which draws millions of visitors and supports the local economy with millions of dollars. On the other hand, poorly managed tourism can fail to benefit local communities and may cause environmental damage, as demonstrated by the different levels of impact on the regional economy and environment between Yosemite and the neighboring Hetch Hetchy Valley.
Moreover, ecotourism has the potential to promote ecosystem conservation while offering economic benefits. In contrast, in some cases, profits generated through tourism might not largely benefit the locals due to economic leakage, where money earned is funneled back to external ownership groups rather than remaining within local economies. However, successful integration of tourism within local economies, such as designating tourist centers near national parks, can enhance income for local residents while contributing to wildlife conservation.
In conclusion, the answer to how national parks contribute to the economy, based on the provided information, is A) National parks create job opportunities for local residents by fostering an environment that attracts tourism and supports local businesses and services.