Earlier this week, the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) has officially inducted the Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation into its membership, marking a significant move to boost the outdoor recreation sector in Pennsylvania.
This addition showcases a strategic effort to enhance the state’s outdoor economy, following the release of Pennsylvania’s Report and Roadmap for the Future, which aims to expand the economic impact of outdoor activities statewide.
The Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation’s new membership with ORR aligns with its proactive steps, as highlighted in its comprehensive action plan. The plan not only aims at job creation but also at fostering new economic opportunities across Pennsylvania, especially in rural areas.
Chris Perkins, vice president of Programs at ORR, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting Pennsylvania’s role as a national leader in utilizing outdoor recreation for economic and community development. This partnership is seen as a strategic alignment with ORR’s mission to nurture and expand the outdoor recreation industry throughout the United States.
Nathan Reigner, director of the Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation, voiced pride in joining ORR. He emphasized the synergy between conservation, economic development, entrepreneurial opportunity, and sustainable policy, which the membership aims to enhance. The collaboration with ORR is expected to facilitate broader connections within the outdoor community and lead to significant advancements in the state’s outdoor recreation strategy.
The foundation of the Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation in 2023 by Governor Shapiro represents a historic development for the state. Pennsylvania has rapidly positioned itself as a leader in empowering rural communities and diversifying local economies through outdoor recreation. This initiative aligns with Governor Shapiro’s strategic emphasis on investing in recreation asset development to spur economic growth.
The state’s engagement in outdoor recreation extends to its budget planning, with substantial investments like $8.5 million allocated for trails and $5 million for the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps. These financial commitments reflect the state’s dedication to enhancing its recreational infrastructure and workforce in the outdoor sector.
Looking forward, ORR anticipates a fruitful collaboration with the Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation. This partnership aims to implement strategic initiatives that not only enhance outdoor access but also drive economic growth and support the outdoor recreation industry both within Pennsylvania and nationwide.
The inclusion of Pennsylvania in the ORR network symbolizes a broader commitment to the outdoor recreation economy.