Archives: Press Releases

July 2, 2024 – Each year, The Conservation Alliance (TCA) Outstanding Partnership Awards recognize member companies that have provided an elevated level of support and partnership to TCA grantees working to protect outdoor spaces, support local communities, and expand access to outdoor recreation. The 2024 Awards go to four member companies – Rogue Heart Media, Osprey, Mystery Ranch, and Flickr.

These like-minded brands help TCA harness the power of businesses and outdoor communities to protect North America’s cherished wild places and outdoor spaces. In 2024 alone, these companies have helped TCA partner with organizations from Montana, Colorado, California, and Washington to support efforts to protect special places critical to local economies, critical habitat, and climate resilience.

“Our members play a critical role in helping grassroots conservation organizations achieve success,” said Kim Paymaster, Grant Program Director at TCA. “With the Outstanding Partnership Awards, we want to acknowledge the companies that are going above and beyond to support our grantees. These partnerships are what help TCA and our conservation partners have more impact. These partners have helped us share grantee stories, donated their time and dollars to projects, and made connections that ultimately drive these projects forward and over the finish line.”

Rogue Heart Media was nominated by Inland Northwest Land Conservancy, who cited Rogue Heart and its founders tirelessly advocate for local conservation. “Their masterful and empathic storytelling efforts on behalf of our organization, as well as that of the Spokane Tribe of Indians, WaterWise Spokane, and Spokane’s Sustainability Action Committee are helping to spur social change in this community.”

Mystery Ranch was nominated by Wild Montana and Business for Montana’s Outdoors. “As one of the first members of Business for Montana’s Outdoors over a decade ago, Mystery Ranch has always made it a priority to support initiatives, using their voice and their platform to advocate for Montana’s public lands, recreation access, and protected wildlife habitat.”

Osprey was nominated by Dolores River Boating Advocates for supporting the organization’s annual event through the donation of funds and equipment. “This year, Osprey stepped up their sponsorship significantly and in addition to donating ample gear, they made a significant cash donation to cover the entire cost of producing our annual fundraiser. This meant that every dollar we raised went back into the organization to cover operation and program costs not supported through grant funding.”

Flickr was nominated by The Conservation Alliance itself for its ongoing efforts to support multiple projects on the ground through photography, filmmaking, and storytelling. “In the past 12 months, Flickr has quickly become one of The Conservation Alliance’s most dedicated members. Their leadership team and staff are extremely passionate about supporting conservation efforts and are generously donating time and resources to create various films that bring these campaigns to life. Storytelling is an essential part of advocacy work and Flickr’s support is making a huge difference in reaching important audiences in priority campaigns.”

Thanks in large part to its members, TCA supports around 50 grassroots conservation organizations every year through its grants program. In addition, many TCA members provide additional support through cause-marketing initiatives and direct involvement in grantee work. The annual Outstanding Partnership Awards are one way for TCA and their grantees to give thanks and recognize their business partners.

For more information about TCA and its grants program, visit ConservationAlliance.com.

About The Conservation Alliance

The Conservation Alliance (TCA) is a coalition of over 270 like-minded member companies who pool resources to fund and advocate for the protection of North America’s cherished wild places and outdoor spaces. Through the collective power of their membership – companies from a range of industries – the outdoor industry to brewers, bankers, sportsmen, and renewable energy – TCA takes bold steps to conserve wild public lands and waters. Since 1989, they’ve awarded over $31.5 million in grants and helped protect over 81 million acres and 3,580 river miles, remove or halt 38 dams, purchase 22 climbing areas & designate five marine reserves. For complete information about The Conservation Alliance, visit www.conservationalliance.com.

Media contact:

Lilly Zoller, The Conservation Alliance

lilly@conservationalliance.com

(248) 302-1553

 

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SEATTLE, Wash. (July 2, 2024) – Outdoor Research, the Seattle-based maker of high-end outdoor apparel and gear, this month expanded the sales territory for its current Great Lakes territory sales representative team, Westbay Trading Co., to also include the Midwest territory. Tom Meier, George Terrizzi and Jim Misiewicz will represent Outdoor Research in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Nebraska.

“Tom, George, and their team have been invaluable in growing the brand through many years of dedicated partnership in the Great Lakes region,” said Michael O’Connell, Director of North American Sales. “Their unwavering commitment and exceptional expertise have been instrumental in our success, and we are delighted to see these territories combine under their expert leadership.

“This strategic decision aligns with our commitment to elevating our market presence and providing superior service to our valued retail partners,” O’Connell continues. “Our team is enthusiastic about the opportunities this presents and confident that it will lead to numerous benefits, including enhanced support, brand alignment, and collaboration within the Midwest territory.”

West Bay Trading Company has represented world-class brands in the outdoor recreation industry for over 40 years. Meier and his team have represented Outdoor Research in the Great Lakes territory for 24 years and created significant success for the brand. Utilizing the team’s many years of industry experience and knowledge of the Outdoor Research brand story will help with OR’s growth in the Midwest territory, O’Connell said.

“Expanding our territory reach with Outdoor Research is very exciting for me and my team,” said Tom Meier. “We are looking forward to connecting with new retailers and helping continue OR’s growth trajectory.”

About Outdoor Research

Since 1981, Outdoor Research has created trusted apparel, accessories, and equipment for you to thrive outside. Our award-winning outdoor gear is meticulously researched and tested for outdoor enthusiasts and military users around the globe. Grounded in our values of curiosity, passion, innovation, collaboration and community, we strive to create space for all in the outdoors. We celebrate wins outside at every level together with our ambassadors, non-profit partners and employees. Join us at outdoorresearch.com.

Media Contact: Verde Brand Communications | (970) 235-0268 | or@verdepr.com

 

Louisville, Colo., July 2, 2024 — TrainingPeaks, the industry-leading training app for endurance coaches and athletes, announced today a new partnership with the Elite Trail Team (ETT) — a team of trail and ultra runners who compete in off-road events around the world.

Under this agreement, TrainingPeaks is recognized as the official training and coaching software for the group of elite runners, supported by a multidisciplinary team of experts who will access detailed performance metrics, trends, and training plans via TrainingPeaks.

“TrainingPeaks is the leading online training software for endurance sports and we have been using it successfully with the Elite Trail Team athletes,” says Doug Stewart, Founder and Performance Coach of the ETT. “This new partnership has allowed for easy access for the support team to access the athlete’s training calendars as well, allowing for a more joined up approach. Additionally, the new Strength programming feature in TrainingPeaks is a great addition, that is helping our strength and conditioning coach program sessions directly in TrainingPeaks, making it easier for the athletes and support team to work in a more joined up way.”

The Elite Trail Team is currently made up of 14 elite athletes from the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Romania and Switzerland. Some have represented their countries on European and World competition stages, while many have podiumed at, or won, some of the marquee events in trail and ultra running. The team offers these athletes world-class support with a multidisciplinary team of coaches, nutrition, psychology, sleep, and physiology experts.

The team has a mission to share this high-performance knowledge with the wider trail running community to inspire and inform runners across the world and help progress this fast-growing sport.

To celebrate this partnership, TrainingPeaks is offering fans and followers of ETT 20 percent off TrainingPeaks Premium. More information can be found here.

“We’re excited to partner with the Elite Trail Team and become more involved in the growing sport of trail running,” said Dirk Friel, TrainingPeaks Co-Founder and Chief Evangelist. “The ETT is unique in this space, with a science-led innovative approach to athlete performance and well-being, and we’re honored to be the training and coaching software of choice in their efforts to achieve wins and podiums in this fast-growing sport.”

About TrainingPeaks

TrainingPeaks creates endurance training apps and solutions that help athletes and coaches reach their goals. Featuring the world’s largest endurance training marketplace, athletes can find personalized training plans, accredited coaches and easy-to-use apps and integrations to track their progress and reach their goals. TrainingPeaks is trusted by runners, cyclists, and triathletes around the world including Tour de France teams, IRONMAN® World Champions and Olympians. Learn more at trainingpeaks.com.

 

BUFFALO, NY (July 1, 2024) – LEKI, a leader in innovative skiing, trekking, and trail running poles, announces the appointment of Ascension Sales to cover the trekking and outdoor retail territory in the Rockies and several states in the Midwest, effective April 1. Ascension Sales specializes in representing authentic brands with a focus on technical hard goods in the outdoor, climbing, skiing, running, and hunt/fish markets in eight states (CO, UT, NM, WY, NE, MO, ND, SD). 

Ascension Sales was founded in 2013 by industry veterans Brad Barlage, Eric Johnson and Brian Stevenson.  Now a sales team of five, including Holly Yeary (partner) and Ronnie Jenkins (sales representative), Ascension Sales has showrooms at the Outdoor Market Alliance in Lakewood, CO, and in Salt Lake City, UT, with the current stable of brands including Petzl, Jetboil, La Sportiva, The Landmark Project, ZOLEO, Ignik and Samaya Equipment.

“The Ascension Sales team brings significant depth of experience and coverage to the critical Rockies and Wasatch territories of the US Outdoor Market.  The entire team are all veterans of the outdoor industry and bring with them a rich collection of skills and experiences to our customers,” said Chris O’Donoghue, Sales Director for LEKI USA. “The Ascension team are passionate about outdoor retail and bring practical experience from the perspectives of buyers, reps and vendors. We are excited to welcome them to the LEKI family.”

“We pride ourselves on representing market leading, technical brands and LEKI’s heritage and innovative spirit is the perfect fit for our portfolio,” said Brian Stevenson, Principal Partner for Ascension Sales. “Retailers continue to look for brands who support their business model and advocate for the outdoor communities they serve.  LEKI’s core values are a great fit for our retail partnerships and will add value to the businesses we work with.”

ABOUT LEKI USA

Founded in 1948, LEKI is the leading manufacturer of Skiing, Trekking, and Trail Running poles and gloves that are German-engineered and mostly produced in the company’s Czech Republic factory. This in conjunction with extensive research and independent testing, makes the best products featuring quality, value, and technology. LEKI equips over 1,000 of the world’s best athletes and brand ambassadors in the disciplines of alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, biathlon, trail running, ski mountaineering, mountain guiding, and alpine climbing. Headquartered in Buffalo, NY, LEKI USA, Inc. is the sole distributor of LEKI brand products in the United States. For more information, visit https://lekiusa.com/ or call 800.255.9982.

AMHERST, Mass. (July 1, 2024) – OrthoLite®, the global leader of branded, high-performance,  comfort footwear solutions, announces an expansion of its European hub, OrthoLite Europa (OEU).

OrthoLite’s increased commitment in Europe furthers the company’s unique global vertical integration strategy and investment in its owned and operated facilities. The company continues to bolster best-in-class manufacturing practices and consistencies throughout its manufacturing regions, which enables OrthoLite to assert near total control over its supply chain and production.

“Our commitment to invest in our global manufacturing footprint brings agility and reliability for OrthoLite’s brand partners and our T1 factory partners,” said Richard Bevan, VP of Global Operations for OrthoLite. “Our factory in Spain is a crucial European hub for our EU-based partners. Our production demand continues to grow and  we continue to build excellence in capacity, customer service, advancing technologies, and unmatched responsiveness as a strategic supply partner.”

OEU’s expansion enhances capacity, innovation and local- for-local insole production solutions for OrthoLite’s European brand partners. Continued investments into the latest technologies will support manufacturing innovation, infrastructure, as well as capacity expansions and operational efficiencies. The factory will expand lean line production, add more automation, and continually modernize the facility and tooling requirements.

OrthoLite brand partners can expect the highest levels of service and quality supported by OrthoLite’s ongoing commitment to invest in its European production. A host of new technologies will support brand-ready customization and expand installed capacities within the EU to meet the growing demand for more technical designs and premium quality materials in footwear.

Since 2021, OrthoLite quadrupled capacity for European Union (EU) footwear production in its facility in Almansa, Spain. The OEU facility provides greater production capacity as well as artisan craftsmanship and specialization in leather-based solutions for the EU-based partners that OrthoLite serves with its insoles. OrthoLite Europa is especially relevant for speed-to-market. From Spain, OrthoLite can deliver to any point in Europe within two to four days.

OrthoLite invested in the team in Almansa for the local talent and technical skill set in leather working as well as the facility’s proximity to other countries working with leather in Europe. Almansa is known as the shoemaking capital of Spain, with 400 years of history in the artistry and trade of footwear.

The OEU facility primarily serves “Made in the EU production” targeting the fashion, luxury, dress, work, outdoor, trail, hike, comfort casual, and athletic footwear brands with top quality insoles as well as leather and other technical insole products, including:

• Leather and textile lamination
• Heel cups, wedges, and both molded and die cut insoles
• Artisan leather insoles for premium fashion brands
• ESD applications and in-house testing utilizing the SATRA TM240-2001 test protocol
• OrthoLite O-Therm™, the first and only aerogel-infused, open-cell PU foam cold and heat block solution that can be applied not only as an insole but also a strobel layer or lining.
• GRS and RCS certified products
• Investments in additional lean lines and localized foaming

OrthoLite exists to serve and resource its family of over 550 global footwear brand partners. As the business of footwear manufacturing continues to dynamically change and demand continues to grow for specialized, sustainable innovations, OrthoLite’s commitment to build and deliver solutions expands.

About OrthoLite®
OrthoLite is the world’s leading supplier of open-cell foam technology, and the innovator and creator of Cirql™, the sustainable materials solutions provider that provides footwear brands and their factory partners with the most sustainable, circular choice in materials. OrthoLite’s innovative footwear solutions are available to brands that share a vision for the future of sustainable footwear. OrthoLite is found in more than 550 footwear brands across all categories of footwear. The company also has a long-standing history of meaningful partnerships and sponsorships that demonstrate a dedicated commitment to supporting its customers, consumers, brand partners and the footwear industry. OrthoLite is the Official Insole sponsor of the New York Yankees, supporter of The Conservation Alliance, The European Outdoor Conservation Association, and is a founding supporter of the Two Ten Foundation. To learn more about the benefits of OrthoLite, visit www.ortholite.com.

 

 

 

BISHOP, Calif. (July 1, 2024) – The Eastern Sierra Conservation Corps (ESCC) proudly announces the successful completion of its two-week orientation session earlier in May, marking the official start of the summer season. Held from May 14-28 at ESCC’s property, The Ranch, the orientation welcomed a diverse group of new and returning corps members, reflecting ESCC’s commitment to building a stronger and more inclusive outdoor community.

During this immersive gathering, corps members were equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in wilderness settings. The comprehensive training program included classes on essential chores, tool ergonomics, crew cooking, water safety, wilderness first aid, and mental health in the backcountry. These sessions prepared participants for the season’s conservation projects while fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment.

ESCC operates on three core values: access, engagement, and extension. The orientation provided an opportunity to ensure maximum access to the outdoors, enabling members to feel comfortable and secure in wilderness areas. Recognizing that various systems of oppression intersect to create socioeconomic barriers that prevent marginalized communities from recreating or working in this industry, ESCC actively works to dismantle these disparities by providing all corps members with the necessary gear and training for the season.

The ESCC is also dedicated to providing young adults with opportunities to engage in meaningful conservation work while developing personal and professional skills. This year’s corps members will participate in a range of projects, including trail restoration, invasive species removal, and habitat enhancement, all aimed at preserving the unique beauty and biodiversity of the Eastern Sierra region.

For more information about the Eastern Sierra Conservation Corps and their ongoing projects, please visit https://www.easternsierracc.org/x.

ABOUT EASTERN SIERRA CONSERVATION CORPS

Eastern Sierra Conservation Corps is a developmental leadership organization committed to building a stronger, more inclusive outdoor community. Since 2016, ESCC has been at the forefront of revolutionizing the field of trail work, pioneering inclusivity and community-building initiatives while undertaking vital conservation projects across California’s wild spaces. ESCC actively recruits and empowers leaders from historically marginalized communities, striving to create a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield, a 25-acre luxury campground situated on Washington’s Long Beach Peninsula and extension of Japanese camping brand Snow Peak, is now open. As the brand’s first campground in North America, Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield is centrally located between Seattle and Portland, offering 48 Field Sites, 8 Tent Suites and 14 Jyubako Suites, in addition to an Ofuro Spa, Campstore, gear rentals, a luxurious Wash House, and more.

“We are looking forward to welcoming guests from around the world to experience Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield,” said Noah Reis, Snow Peak USA VP and Chief Operating Officer. “At Snow Peak, we believe in the transformative power of nature and the profound connections it fosters. Our Long Beach Campfield is more than just a destination; it’s a sanctuary where friends, families, and solo campers can immerse themselves in a refined camping experience, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Pacific Northwest’s coast.”

A NEW KIND OF CAMPGROUND

Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield offers an elevated environment, encouraging guests to unplug and immerse themselves in the outdoors. Spacious campsites provide ample room for setup, complemented by pristine, sanitary facilities including a Wash House with private showers, restrooms and an expansive sink station for camp clean-up. With a range of accommodations from open campsites to private micro cabins, Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield balances comfort and a deep connection with nature. See a full breakdown of options HERE.

RESTORATIVE WELLNESS

A place to restore mind and spirit, the newly opened Ofuro Spa is a lavish addition to Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield’s suite of amenities designed to enhance the guest experience. The spa draws inspiration from traditional Japanese bathhouses, offering a tranquil retreat where guests can indulge in holistic relaxation and rejuvenation. At the heart of the open-air space, visitors will find a soothing outdoor hot pool, a sauna crafted from hinoki cypress wood, known for its aromatic and therapeutic properties, and a refreshing cold plunge pool. Guests can enjoy serene views of nature during their visit, including a nearby pond and lush island. All Campfield bookings include complimentary Ofuro Spa access, with day passes also available for purchase.

REFUEL & RECONNECT

Designed and centered around community, Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield provides an immersive retreat to help guests be present and reconnect to nature. On-site programming includes wine tastings and happy hours, live music with local bands and artists, weekly Takibi Time and more. Additionally, the Campfield hosts ecological programming such as wild mushroom hunting, clam digging and bike excursions, along with year-round outdoor adventures that the peninsula provides.

The onsite Campstore, open to campers, day guests and locals, offers a well-stocked market and all-day café, along with an assortment of Snow Peak gear.

Locals and guests can enjoy the warmer summer nights at the inaugural Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield Night Market in late July. This free, all-ages event will feature live music from local artists, curated shopping from various Pacific Northwest vendors, small bites, drinks and more. Additionally, Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield will host the area’s first two Snow Peak Way events in June and October. These campouts offer a blend of activities, communal gatherings and free time to explore and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts and Snow Peak staff. Each event will include community Takibi Time and longstanding Snow Peak Way traditions like the Paper Airplane Contest.

THOUGHTFUL DESIGN

Snow Peak prioritizes restoration and conservation at every turn, exemplified by their careful restoration of four acres of on-site wetlands, bolstering the ecosystem by nurturing the flora and fauna that call them home and improving its ecological value. Committed to providing a high- quality and comfortable camping experience, Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield partnered with local architectural design company, EFA Architects, to oversee all construction efforts including wetland mitigation, program development, design assembly and architectural design. Drawing on Snow Peak’s core values, EFA Architects crafted a design that harmoniously integrates with the unique wetland environment of the Long Beach peninsula. North 45 Projects led interior design, while landscape architecture was handled by Knot Studio, both based in Portland, Oregon. Project construction was carried out by Helligso Construction from Astoria, Oregon, emphasizing minimal environmental impact. The construction of key facilities like the Campstore and Ofuro Spa included authentically milled and heat treated yakisugi, a durable cladding material made from Japanese cypress, from Nakamoto Forestry.

For more information or to reserve a stay, visit https://snowpeakcampfield.com/ or call 833-662- 7624. Follow Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield on Facebook and Instagram.

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About Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield

Opened in 2024, Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield offers a reimagined camping experience centered on comfort, leisure and connection with nature. The Campfield sits on the Long Beach Peninsula in western Washington State, approximately 2.5 hours from Portland and 3 hours from Seattle. Owned and operated by Japanese camping brand Snow Peak, the 25-acres site offers three accommodation types for every kind of camper. The design of the site encourages community moments, from the well-stocked Campstore and Cafe to the Japanese-inspired Ofuro Spa. Book your stay at snowpeakcampfield.com.

About Snow Peak

Founded in Japan in 1958, Snow Peak has been serving customers in the USA for more than 20 years, with a mission to unite people and alleviate the stresses of modern life through time gathering outside. Its Japanese-designed, lifetime-guaranteed outdoor goods serve as a catalyst for restorative experiences in nature. Focused on bringing people together, Snow Peak operates immersive retail locations in Portland and New York City, as well as a Portland restaurant, Takibi, a PNW izakaya that brings to life the brand’s belief that time spent sharing food and drink by the fire is the best way to connect with one another. The brand’s first campground, Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield, opened in 2024. Learn more and shop at snowpeak.com.

Media Contact

bread & Butter spcampfield@welovebreadandbutter.com

June 28, 2024 – Today, outdoor recreation businesses applaud the Biden Administration for taking a powerful step to safeguard some of America’s wildest, most biologically and culturally important lands.

In today’s action, the Biden Administration has taken steps to permanently protect 28 million acres of some of the most critical lands in Alaska that span from the temperate rainforests of Southeast Alaska to north of the Arctic Circle. This is among the largest intact landscapes left in the country and supports Alaska’s $2.6 billion outdoor recreation industry that employs over 20,000 people.

These lands were justifiably designated for protection in 1971 but were more recently put at risk of being opened up to harmful and exploitative industrial extraction. If reopened, caribou migration routes, bald eagle sanctuaries, and critical wild salmon habitat could be decimated by industrial development.

More than 140 federally recognized Alaska Native Tribes have voiced support for permanently protecting this landscape and dozens of state and national nonprofit organizations have helped coordinate efforts to advocate for this land.

Today’s news is the first step. The Conservation Alliance and partners recently launched Protect Alaska’s Homelands. This campaign is coordinating business, nonprofit, and Tribal voices to ensure that the Biden Administration works in a timely fashion to finalize this process and permanently protect this landscape.

“The Final Environmental Impact Statement released today is an amazing step towards safeguarding lands and waters that support Alaska Native communities and offer some of the most renowned recreation in North America,” said Shoren Brown, TCA’s Vice President of Public Affairs. “TCA and our member companies are in full support of conserving  28 million acres of D1 lands that support Alaska’s $2.6 billion outdoor recreation industry and employ over 20,000 people. Businesses stand ready to defend this common sense decision from the BLM.”

“The Biden administration could further protect public lands in Alaska and as a result, play an outsized role in saving our planet,” said Hans Cole, vice president of environmental activism at Patagonia. “There are 28 million acres of D-1 lands around the state that are managed by the Bureau of Land Management that could lose protections which have blocked industrial development for 50 years. This includes critical habitat for species such as caribou, muskox, sockeye salmon and bald eagles. We have a shared responsibility to protect wild places like these, and the future of our business, the outdoor recreation economy and our planet relies on it.”

“The 28 million acres of D-1 lands in Alaska provide world class recreation and outdoor activities in a setting as wild and remote as anywhere left in the world. They provide unmatched wildlands experience to local community members and travelers from across the world. At GU we believe that everyone should have access to natural places which is why we’re standing up for the continued protection of these open spaces.” – Celia Camargo, GU Director of Community & Purpose

“As a sole proprietor and a career wilderness guide working for 30 years in Alaska, there is nothing of greater importance to me than protecting Alaska’s public lands. Indeed, these lands belong to not only us, but future generations. I have had the deep privilege of guiding people from all walks of life as they venture forth on these lands, bearing witness as the powerful wild experience shaped and shifted their lives for the positive. These lands have not only sustained my income for my entire career, but they have sustained my spirit as I’ve watched the powerful transformation take place in people who even get to experience their vastness for a day. It is hard to place an economic value on such experiences, yet as a tiny cog in the one trillion dollar outdoor industry, it is clear to me that even the wealthiest of humans on this planet value the opportunity to recreate in these lands and they have proved so again and again, year after year with their investments in their own vacations. Please protect these lands and our valuable tourism economy.” – Brooke Edwards owner/operator/lead guide of Alaska-based Wild World Wanderings.

“NEMO urges the BLM to permanently protect D-1 Lands. Conserving the D-1 Lands in Alaska presents an important opportunity to support Indigenous tribes, improve climate resiliency, and promote outdoor recreation in Alaska.” – Theresa McKenney, Director of Sustainability and Government Affairs

“The economic impact of Alaska’s outdoor recreation economy can’t be ignored – it contributes $2.6 billion to the state’s economy and employs 20,515 people. As one of those over 20,000 Alaskans who rely on outdoor spaces for my livelihood, I strongly support the protection of Alaska’s D-1 lands. The region’s wild rivers provide once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for fishing trips for folks near to home and from across the globe,” said Adam Cuthriell, Fishhound Expeditions owner and Alaska fishing guide. “My business guides fishing trips that offer access to Alaska’s remote and beautiful scenery and some of the most prolific wild sockeye salmon runs on Earth. Permanently protecting these vast lands and salmon habitat from harmful extractive industrial development will ensure my customers can continue to enjoy them.”

“At Backpackers Pantry, we are committed to leaving the world a better place for future generations. We’ll never stop protecting the planet and the places we love to adventure. As far as adventure destinations go, Alaska’s public lands offer some of the most remote and unique outdoor recreation experiences in the world,” said Soraya Smith, President of American Outdoor Products. “The 28 million acres are also deserving of permanent protection because they include lands critical to Native communities’ food security and way of life. Opening Alaska’s D-1 lands to extractive development would be the wrong decision.”

” From Bristol Bay to the Arctic Circle, Alaska’s D-1 lands connect tens of millions of acres of important habitat that offer world-class recreation opportunities and support climate resilience. Peak Design aspires to help adventurers find their peak – and that’s only possible if outdoor spaces remain protected. Our company and our employees are calling on the Biden Administration to take action to safeguard these lands.” – Annie Nyborg, Head of Environmental and Social Impact at Peak

“As an outdoor recreation business, we have an obligation to protect the irreplaceable lands, waters, and wildlife for future generations. The 28 million acres of D-1 lands in Alaska are a world class resource for packrafting and other outdoor activities, serving as a destination for thousands of visitors each year. Businesses like ours and the outdoor recreation economy can only survive if places like these are protected for years to come. We look forward to seeing a final decision that permanently protects the D-1 lands.” – Sarah and Thor Tingey, Alpacka Raft Owners

“At Stio we are committed to doing the right thing and safeguarding 28 million acres of wildlands in Alaska from industrial development is just that – the right thing. It’s what is best for Alaska’s Native communities, the surrounding wildlife and ecosystems, and the outdoor recreation economy in Alaska and beyond,” said Liz Barrett, Stio Brand Director. “We are grateful that this land has remained intact thus far and encourage the administration to ensure protections for generations to come.”

“The 28 million acres of D-1 lands are critical for climate resiliency. Safeguarding this landscape from industrial development will not only protect our climate – it will support businesses such as ours that rely on protecting the outdoors. We at Outdoor Research believe it is our responsibility to be stewards of the environment so we are proud to join TCA and our fellow business members to protect D-1 lands.” – Dan Mayers, Brand Communication Manager at Outdoor Research

“As we watch our outdoor environment continue to change, it has become increasingly clear how important it is to protect the remaining wild places in the United States. By protecting these destinations, we not only provide a safe habitat for native animal species and crucial carbon sinks in our race against climate change, but we also bring needed value to local economies with world class recreation. Black Diamond Equipment, a US-based company, humbly asks the Biden Administration to reinstate protections for Alaska’s D-1 lands.” – Jess Powell, Advocacy and Sustainability Manager at Black Diamond

For more information about TCA and its efforts to protect wild places and outdoor spaces, visit www.ConservationAlliance.com.

About The Conservation Alliance:

The Conservation Alliance is a coalition of over 270 like-minded member companies who pool resources to fund and advocate for the protection of North America’s cherished wild places and outdoor spaces. Through the collective power of their membership – companies from a range of industries from outdoor industry to brewers, bankers, sportsmen, and renewable energy – take bold steps to conserve wild public lands and waters. Since 1989, we’ve awarded over $31.9 million in grants and helped protect over 82 million acres and 4,570 river miles, remove or halt 38 dams, purchase 22 climbing areas and designate five marine reserves.

Media Contact: Lilly Zoller, Director of Communications, The Conservation Alliance: Lilly@ConservationAlliance.com

 

 

 

 

PARK CITY, Utah (June 27, 2024) – Competitive Cyclist, the premier online retailer for premium cycling gear and apparel, proudly announced its partnership with Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O.) as the only official U.S. retailer for this year’s Tour de France products. The distinguished collaboration underscores Competitive Cyclist’s commitment to providing unparalleled access to the industry’s top-of-the-line equipment alongside the world’s most renowned cycling event.

“We are really happy to welcome Competitive Cyclist as our 2024 Tour de France official retailer of licensed products in the U.S. for a 3rd year in a row,” said Nicolas Denolf, licensing and merchandising manager at A.S.O. “With their high-level customer service and expertise in the bike industry, we believe that Competitive Cyclist is the top bike specialist to connect the world’s biggest bike race with US cycling fans.”

“Competitive Cyclist is deeply committed to championing the cycling lifestyle,” said Ian Gonder, senior brand marketing manager at Competitive Cyclist. “The Tour de France is not just a race, it is also a cultural phenomenon that captivates cycling fans globally. Our partnership perfectly aligns with our mission to support and inspire all cyclists by offering official Tour de France gear and apparel from the esteemed brands with which we have cultivated long-standing relationships.”

Available now, Competitive Cyclist offers a curated selection of official A.S.O. Tour de France products to U.S. fans. The collection includes authentic jerseys, bibs, and accessories worn by professional cyclists, high-performance equipment such as helmets, gloves, and other essential gear used in the Tour, and unique souvenirs and collectibles that commemorate the rich history and legacy of the Tour de France. Discover the full range of products at Competitive Cyclist Tour de France Collection.

About Competitive Cyclist

Competitive Cyclist is an online specialty retailer of road and mountain bikes, components, apparel and accessories. It delivers the personalized service of the local bike shops through our industry leading customer service team known as our Gearheads. With rider-written descriptions, detailed photos, expert customer service, and built-to-spec ready-to-ride bike delivery service, Competitive Cyclist is all about riders, their bikes and their next best ride www.competitivecyclist.com.

About Amaury Sports Organisation

Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O) is a prominent promoter of sporting events, including the Tour de France, one of the most celebrated cycling races globally. A.S.O organizes over 240 days of competition each year, encompassing 90 events across 30 countries.