BOULDER – Reports of a new Office of Outdoor Industry and Experiences in Connecticut today were praised by outdoor industry stakeholders across the country, including Outdoor Industry Association president, Kent Ebersole, who issued the following statement:
“From coast to coast, it is encouraging to see the growing number of states prioritizing their local outdoor recreation economies,” said Kent Ebersole, president of Outdoor Industry Association. “The reason for this momentum is simple: the outdoor recreation economy accounts for more than $1 trillion in consumer spending nationwide and supports more than five million hard-working employees and their families across the nation. Furthermore, the number of Americans who participate in the outdoors has increased to new heights for eight consecutive years, with over 56% of the population getting outside. We welcome the state of Connecticut to this movement and look forward to working with policymakers there to increase access to public lands and waterways, advance conservation efforts, and increase outdoor participation, so everyone can experience the benefits from spending time outdoors.”
