Michigan on May 30 became the first state in the Midwest to create an Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council.
“Enjoying the great outdoors in many different ways is a significant driver of our state’s economy and a big part of what draws people to visit, live and work in Michigan,” said Governor Rick Snyder. “The creation of the Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council will pay dividends in both expanding the outdoor recreation economy and further supporting the enjoyment and stewardship of natural resources for all of Michigan.”
Outdoor recreation accounts for $26.6 billion in consumer spending and 232,000 jobs in Michigan.
The Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) in a statement said it applauds the state’s leadership for establishing this group to forge new partnerships and develop creative solutions to bring the benefits of outdoor recreation to residents and visitors alike.
OIA said it has encouraged the establishment of similar efforts in states across the country and is looking forward to working with this group, including the several OIA members who serve on it.
“As a retailer, we help outfit people with the gear and know-how to enjoy the amazing outdoor recreation we have here; it’s big part of our quality of life in Michigan,” said Tracy Mayer, an OIA board member and owner of Backcountry North, a specialty outdoor retailer with stores in Traverse City and Birmingham. “I’m excited to serve on the Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council to help even more communities across Michigan enjoy the economic and health benefits of time spent outdoors.”
More information about the effort from Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources here.
