The Ames Economic Development Commission is conducting a laborshed employment survey for Story and Boone counties to better define where the area’s workforce lives. The study, being done in partnership with Iowa Workforce Development and the Iowa Economic Development Authority, will help identify which communities contribute to the counties’ workforce based on commuting patterns. According to a news release, the purpose of the study is to measure the availability and characteristics of workers in the laborshed market. The study can be used by economic development teams and existing or prospective employers to understand the local labor market and make decisions on expansion and site selection, and to maintain or recruit high-quality employees. Letters will be sent to employers in Story and Boone counties asking them to provide ZIP codes of where their employees live.