The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has launched an action plan aimed at growing the outdoor recreation sector within the state.
The plan, Growing Outdoor Recreation for Pennsylvania, was created as part of a broader effort to build capacity within Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation industry, the DCNR said. This includes steering funding to the outdoors through policy, planning, and by communicating the economic benefit of the outdoors.
The action plan also involves organizing the outdoor industry through an outdoor business alliance and identifying gaps to support businesses in the industry. It also focuses on developing the outdoor workforce by elevating and stabilizing compensation, benefits, working conditions, and the professional status of outdoor workers.
In support of these goals, the plan recommends that the state communicate the value of the outdoors through collaboration with tourism and marketing partners, support events, programs, and resources to expand diversity, emphasize inclusiveness, and address inequity in access to outdoor spaces and activities.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, the outdoor recreation industry in Pennsylvania contributes $16.9 billion to the state’s economy, supporting 164,344 jobs. DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn expressed confidence that the state can capitalize on the growing opportunities within the industry, noting that the more than 50 action steps outlined in the plan will assist with achieving its strategic priorities.
“We’re excited to get to work implementing them to benefit our Commonwealth, our communities, and all Pennsylvanians,” she said.
“Outdoor recreation is more than pleasant outings to enjoy nature with friends and family — it is a vital industry in Pennsylvania and growing part of our economy that has the power to reinvigorate communities across the Commonwealth,” said Pennsylvania Director of Outdoor Recreation Nathan Reigner. “We see a tremendous opportunity for quality growth that creates entrepreneurial opportunities, attracts and retains highly competitive workers, and advances the wellbeing of all communities.”
source: media.pa.gov