In a move to enhance inclusive access to outdoor recreation, the Healey-Driscoll Administration unveiled the allocation of $167,000 in grants. This initiative, unveiled during Earth Month, is aimed at promoting accessible outdoor activities across Massachusetts, according to a press release.
“These grants support the essential work of organizations and municipalities striving to ensure everyone feels welcome and included in Massachusetts’ outdoors. Expanding access to outdoor recreation is the perfect opportunity for grantees to showcase the beautiful rivers, trails, and parks that we have to offer to all residents and visitors,” MOOR Director Paul Jahnige said.
The funding is distributed by the Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation (MOOR) to 21 diverse organizations and municipalities. The grants, termed Inclusive and Accessible Event Grants, are designed to facilitate easier access to outdoor recreational activities for low-income individuals, communities of color, and people living with disabilities.
“Outdoor recreation events in nature support our mental, physical, and social health and the state’s economic health. Investing in the outdoor recreation economy is a step towards strengthening our connections with each other and the natural environment,” Jahnige said
The Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation, established in December 2022, works in collaboration with agencies and private partners. Its mission is to promote a wide range of outdoor activities across the state, including but not limited to hunting, fishing, horseback riding, paddling, and swimming.
State Senator Patricia D. Jehlen of the Second Middlesex district expressed gratitude towards the Office of Outdoor Recreation and the Mystic River Watershed Association for their efforts to increase accessibility to the Mystic River.
“This is another way MyRWA is working to make people aware of the river, to clean it up and to make it accessible. I love canoeing on the Mystic and am happy when there are more people every year enjoying nature and paddling!” Senator Jehlen said.
The $11 billion contribution, along with the growth of tourism and the creation of over 102,000 jobs, highlight the importance of outdoor recreation to Massachusetts’ economy.
For more information, click here.
