The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) reported it added seven new members, expanding the coalition across a broad spectrum of the outdoor recreation economy, including universities, several state offices of outdoor recreation, conservation non-profits, and brands.
The new members include the University of Arkansas Outdoor Products and Services Program, the Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation, the Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation, the Wisconsin Office of Outdoor Recreation, Eddyline Kayaks, the Trust for Public Land (TPL), and Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC). These organizations represent a broad range of interests and sectors within the outdoor industry.
“This dynamic group of new members reinforces ORR’s mission to unite the outdoor recreation industry and advocate for the economic, social and quality of life benefits of outdoor activities of all types,” said Jessica Wahl Turner, President of ORR. “The addition of these new ORR members underscores the expanse and economic strength of the outdoor recreation sector. Amid national economic fluctuations, the outdoor recreation industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth. ORR members are building stronger, healthier, and more sustainable communities across the nation and inspiring a new, diverse generation of students to build their careers in outdoor recreation.”
Chris Perkins, VP of programs, ORR, added, “Our new members embody the spirit of diversity and innovation that is vital to the continued growth of the outdoor recreation economy. From enhancing educational programs and state-level initiatives to pioneering new products and conserving land for public use, these organizations play a crucial role in making outdoor recreation accessible and enjoyable for all. Their contributions are invaluable as we work together to ensure the outdoor industry remains a cornerstone of economic strength and community well-being.”
Eddyline Kayaks President Scott Holley said, “As one of the country’s leading kayak brands, we feel that it is important for us to lend our voice to supporting equitable access to clean and healthy waterways,” he commented. “ORR is uniquely positioned to amplify our voice and collect our efforts with industry peers. We are excited to be involved.”
Paul Jahnige, director of the Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation (MOOR), said, “ORR was instrumental in the creation of MOOR and has already provided incredible models and tools for us to use including advocacy and rural development tools and training.
“Pennsylvania’s Office of Outdoor Recreation is pleased and proud to join the national leadership driving forward our outdoor economy through state office membership in ORR,” said Nathan Reigner, director of the Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation. “Joining the Roundtable will help us better connect the dots of conservation, economic development, entrepreneurial opportunity, and sustainable policy. We thank ORR for both their unwavering support and for welcoming us into the community of outdoor leaders.”
“Rails to Trails Conservancy is glad to be part of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable. There is so much potential in getting more people outside by connecting them to close-to-home spaces where they can walk, bike, and be active in nature. These spaces are economic drivers for the country and the communities they serve while providing new access to safe, convenient mobility that everyone needs,” said Brandi Horton, VP of communications at Rails to Trails Conservancy. “We’re thrilled that the nation’s multiuse trails will be part of the critical advocacy that ORR is leading to build support and investment in the outdoors.”
“The Trust For Public Land is excited to join ORR to continue the conversation regarding the intersectionality of the outdoor recreation economy’s utilization of and protection of public lands and waters,” said Luis Benitez, chief impact officer at the Trust for Public Land. “ORR leads the way with policy conversations in this arena and we stand ready to partner with ORR on the extraordinary efforts they undertake in Washington DC.”
“The University of Arkansas is excited to join ORR as an academic member in support of our new curricular and noncurricular programs,” said Jon Johnson, professor of sustainability, Department of Strategy, Entrepreneurship and Venture Innovation, University of Arkansas.” We are looking forward to learning from ORR’s leadership and members and contributing to its mission.”
“The Roundtable is a valuable resource that the Wisconsin Office of Outdoor Recreation is excited to leverage as we set state-level goals and programs into motion,” said Cassie Mordini, director of the Wisconsin Office of Outdoor Recreation. “As new members, we look forward to opportunities for deeper engagement with ORR and its impressive network of industry leaders, to applying new learnings here at home and further strengthening Wisconsin’s outdoor economy.”
The ORR said it is “committed to supporting all its members in their endeavors to promote outdoor recreation and looks forward to the fresh perspectives and expertise this cohort brings to the coalition. Through collaboration and shared goals, ORR and its members will continue to work to ensure that all Americans can benefit from outdoor recreation today and for future generations.”
