ADVOCACY
Your State Department of Outdoor Recreation
By Cris Cadiz
In 2023, the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) measured the entire nation’s outdoor recreation economy. It showed 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. ~ www.confluenceofstates.com/news
Wheels spin slowly in government, but New England states are finally embracing the fact that outdoor recreation is an economic powerhouse. Mountain bikers and mountain biking advocates who seize this opportunity can help drive the sport forward. So far, five New England states either have or are in the process of employing a Director of Outdoor Recreation (or similar role). While every office has different goals and responsibilities, each recognizes value in outdoor recreation and strives to support it. Understanding this office and the people who run it can be a powerful advocacy tool. The directors of these offices have various backgrounds but collectively share many years working in outdoor recreation and great enthusiasm for enjoying and supporting access to our natural resources.
In 2013, Governor Gary Herbert of Utah saw the significant positive impact of outdoor recreation on his state’s economy and created the first Office of Outdoor Recreation.
2013
Following Utah’s lead, eight states formed a bipartisan network called the Confluence of States (www.confluenceofstates.com) in 2018, with the aim of giving the outdoor recreation industry a political voice. Today, 18 of 50 states have signed on to this collaboration, which aspires to “unify communities, bridge societal divides, and improve the mental and physical health of all.”
2018 Vermont was first to join in 2018
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2019 Maine joins in 2019
2022 New Hampshire joins in 2022
Massachusetts joins in 2024
2024 Connecticut established an Office of Outdoor Industry & Experiences in 2024 and is hiring a director who will spearhead potentially joining the Confluence. 14