In July, the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) released its Outdoor Recreation Economy Report for all 50 states across the U.S, which describes a flourishing sector that’s helping create healthier economies and healthier communities. As for Washington, our outdoor industry simply can’t be beat.
A powerful economic driver
Outdoor recreation is powerful economic driver in our state. According to the OIA report, Washington outdoor recreation generates $26.2 billion in consumer spending annually, and generates $2.3 billion in state and local tax revenue. Each year, outdoor recreation provides $7.6 billion in wages and salaries and supports 201,000 direct jobs. This means that more jobs in Washington depend on outdoor recreation than on the aerospace industry.
From the Okanogan highlands to the Columbia River Gorge, from the Blue Mountains of the Walla Walla Valley to the Hoh River in west Jefferson County, spending time in the great outdoors is ingrained in our Washington identity. In fact, nearly three-quarters of residents participate in outdoor recreation each year, and are more likely to go camping or day hiking than the average American.
Land trusts are providing outdoor recreation opportunities
The strength of Washington’s outdoor economy reinforces what we already know: that outdoor recreation opportunities and protected, stewarded land is imperative for our state’s quality of life. Thankfully, Washington’s land trusts are meeting that demand. As of 2015, land trusts have acquired 126,165 acres across the state, 72 percent of which allow public access for outdoor recreation and education uses. This land trust land welcomes 74,964 visitors per year!