What They Are Saying: Confluence Of States Leaders Highlight New Bureau Of Economic Analysis (BEA) Numbers On Outdoor Recreation
NATIONWIDE – The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) released new statistics measuring the outdoor recreation economy for the nation, all 50 states, and the District of Columbia. The new U.S. data show that outdoor recreation generates $1.1 trillion in economic output (2.2% of GDP), 4.98 million jobs and comprises 3.2% of U.S. employees for the nation. See what members of the Confluence of States are saying:
Arkansas Office of Outdoor Recreation
“The data released by BEA is reflective of our efforts in enhancing the quality of life through outdoor recreation here in the state of Arkansas,” said Katherine Andrews, Director of the Arkansas Office of Outdoor Recreation. “It provides a clear example of how our initiatives within the state are working and have positive impacts on our communities. We look forward to using this momentum to continue to expand the outdoor recreation economy both nationally, and here in our home state.” See full press release.
Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office
"We must continue to champion destination stewardship, more equitable access to the outdoors, a healthy workforce, and continued sustainable growth of the industry," said Conor Hall, Director of Colorado's Outdoor Recreation Industry Office. See full press release.
Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation
“The importance of the outdoor recreation sector and how it is a consistent economic driver is reinforced with the new BEA data,” said Carolann Ouellette, Director, Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation. “It also reinforces the importance of continual investment that supports the stewardship of our natural assets and the innovative businesses that strengthen our economy.” See full press release.
Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation
“When residents have access to safe parks and trails, they are 21 percent more likely to be physically active,” said Paul Jahnige, Director of Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation. “Green spaces also reduce heat island impacts, cool neighborhoods, and provide significant ‘green’ mental health benefits including lessening stress, anxiety, and depression.” See full press release.
Michigan Outdoor Recreation Industry Office
“This data shows how the outdoor industry continues to be a key area of growth and a path to bolster local economies, consistently creating jobs and supporting economic growth,” said Michigan Outdoor Recreation Industry Office Executive Director Brad Garmon. “Trends in key segments of the Michigan and national outdoor recreation economy reflect our ongoing strategy to build on core strengths, such as retail and access facilitation, while better connecting and growing areas such as durable goods manufacturing for the outdoor economy. We will continue working to diversify and improve the overall resilience of the outdoor industry in Michigan, and add more high-wage and high growth jobs, especially in underserved rural and urban communities.” See full press release.
Montana
“Montana’s contribution is impressive, with the outdoor recreation economy driving $2.9 billion in economic output and providing support for 29,450 jobs across the state,” said Melissa Weddell, Director of the Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research Director at the University of Montana. See full press release.
New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division
“The BEA data validates the ongoing efforts of New Mexico’s Outdoor Recreation Division to create jobs through the Trails+ grant program, support economic growth, and offer equitable access to the outdoors through the first-of-its-kind Outdoor Equity Fund,” said Karina Armijo, Executive Director, New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division. “Based on the data, we can affirm these outdoor recreation-focused programs benefit all New Mexicans and the outdoor recreation businesses throughout the state.” See full press release.
North Carolina
“The latest data highlights that outdoor recreation and its supporting industries have an unwavering impact as an economic powerhouse in North Carolina,” said Amy Allison, Director of the MADE X MTNS (Made By Mountains) Partnership. “By championing strategic investments in public lands and infrastructure, fostering outdoor-driven communities and providing support for the innovative endeavors of outdoor recreation businesses and entrepreneurs, we continue to bolster our region’s economy, while also laying the foundation for a thriving and resilient future.” See full press release.
Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation
“With a continual rise in people drawn to the outdoors, Utah’s outdoor recreation sector continues to be a catalyst for economic growth and job creation,” said Jason Curry, Director of the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation. “Communities across the state are experiencing the numerous benefits of our readily accessible landscapes, and we will remain committed to fostering a high-quality outdoor lifestyle that drives the outdoor economy and enriches the lives of all Utah’s residents and visitors.” See full press release.
Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation
“Outdoor recreation is a cornerstone of the Wyoming economy and is stitched tightly into what it means to live in our state, with endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors,” stated Patrick Harrington, Manager of Wyoming’s Office of Outdoor Recreation. “We look forward to this release every year as a moment to celebrate the great work of folks all across Wyoming who are advancing this economy in a way that makes sense for the people that call this place home.” See full press release.