Connecticut Becomes 22nd Member of Confluence of States Bipartisan Outdoor Recreation Coalition
Jeffrey Shaw, Director of the Connecticut Office of Outdoor Industry, signs on to the Confluence Accords.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Connecticut formally joined the Confluence of States as its 22nd signatory Wednesday, May 7th, during the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable's National Executive Forum on Health and Outdoor Recreation in Washington, D.C.
Connecticut's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Office of Outdoor Industry and Experiences join a bipartisan coalition committed to the coalition's five pillars: conservation and stewardship, education and workforce training, economic development, public health and wellness, and opportunity and experience.
The state's outdoor recreation economy was valued at $6 billion in 2024, supporting more than 50,000 jobs and contributing $2.8 billion in wages to the state economy, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.
"Our parks, forests, fish, wildlife, and waterways are a big reason why Connecticut is such a great place to live, work, and play," said Katie Dykes, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. "Connecticut's outdoor recreation economy is thriving, and through the Confluence of States, we have an opportunity to build on that momentum in partnership with likeminded states across the country."
"We are excited to build on Connecticut's outdoor recreation economy through the Partnership in Parks initiative and through collaboration with the Confluence of States," said Jeffrey Shaw, Director of the Connecticut Office of Outdoor Industry and Experiences. "By fostering innovative partnerships, we aim to elevate visitor experiences across our State Parks and position Connecticut as a leader in equitable, accessible, and environmentally responsible outdoor experiences for all."
The signing follows Connecticut's launch of its Office of Outdoor Industry and Experiences in 2024 and its inaugural Connecticut Outdoor Recreation Day at the State Capitol, which convened outdoor businesses, guides, recreation groups, and legislators.
Confluence of States partners gather at Outdoor Recreation Roundtable's National Executive Forum on Health and Outdoor Recreation.
"Connecticut's leadership reflects exactly what this coalition is designed to advance: outdoor recreation as a bipartisan strategy for stronger economies, healthier communities, conservation, workforce development, and expanded opportunity," said Nathan Reigner, 2026 Confluence of States Chair and Director of Pennsylvania's Office of Outdoor Recreation. "As more states join this work, our collective voice becomes stronger."
"Connecticut's formal commitment to the Confluence of States underscores the growing recognition that outdoor recreation is a driver of resilient state economies, healthier communities, and stronger connections to place," said Chris Perkins, Vice President of Programs at the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable.
Read more about Connecticut’s announcement here.