Oftentimes, downturns in the U.P.'s major resource-based industries can turn the economic outlook of a city or county gloomy. But Delta County has managed to sidestep several potential hits to its economy, and will see its largest city get the Hollywood treatment.
Escanaba played host to the film carrying its name, titled "Escanaba in da Moonlight." The movie is about five "Yoopers" at a deer camp, and was created and written by actor Jeff Daniels, who also stars in the movie. Filming started in March at a former health-club-turned-soundstage in Escanaba, and will include scenes at a number of local spots, including Escanaba Athletic Field.
Last year, a glut of steel imports forced the shutdown of the Tilden and Empire mines in Marquette County, hurting shipping ports across the U.P. But the Escanaba port saw a relatively small decline in total dockings, and actually reported an increase in the total tonnage shipped. Also dependent on snowmobilers and other winter tourists, Delta County (along with much of the U.P.) reported early strong tourism numbers despite a lackluster winter.
