As everyone in Pennsylvania knows, and as those who visit or relocate here quickly discover, our commonwealth is blessed with an abundance of natural resources and outdoor recreational assets.
With over 136,000 miles of rivers and streams (second only to Alaska), Pennsylvania is one of the best places in the world for paddling and fishing. With over 12,000 miles of trails, you can explore on foot, on wheels, on skis or snowshoes, or even on horseback. And nearly 4.5 million acres of mostly forested public land offer virtually endless opportunities for camping, hunting, birdwatching, and simply enjoying nature.
With such a wealth of experiences at our fingertips, it's no wonder so many Pennsylvanians enjoy some form of outdoor recreation. Everyone has their favorite places and activities. For me and my family, that means hiking the Appalachian Trail, skiing the Poconos, biking the D&L Trail, and watching bird migration at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in Berks County, just to name a few. . If you've spent any time outdoors in the Keystone State, you already know how much these special places contribute to our quality of life, especially our physical and mental health.
You may not realize it, but outdoor recreation also contributes significantly to Pennsylvania's economy. With nearly $17 billion a year and 164,000 jobs, Pennsylvania is the nation's eighth-largest outdoor economy, according to the most recent data from the U.S. Department of Commerce. nation. In big cities, small towns, and everywhere in between, Pennsylvanians manufacture, sell, and service outdoor equipment. Development and maintenance of outdoor infrastructure. Work as an equipment seller, guide, and educator. and provide hospitality services. Outdoor recreational amenities are also often important for attracting and retaining workers who can choose where to live and value the opportunity.
COVID-19 has caused a dramatic spike in outdoor recreation, with unprecedented park and trail use driving new demand for products like bikes, kayaks, and RVs. But even as the pandemic recedes, interest in outdoor activities remains and strains on historically under-resourced facilities and infrastructure continue, further highlighting the need for both public and private investment. It has become. As an environmental organization, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) proudly supports and encourages such investments. Because we see outdoor recreation as a gateway to management. The more time people spend outdoors, the more they value and appreciate the natural resources that are our common heritage. . Just as these special places need our care and protection, so too do the businesses that use them.
Pennsylvania is committed to growing and strengthening our outdoor sector in a way that recognizes the close relationship between economic growth, environmental conservation, and healthy, vibrant communities. The newly created Office of Outdoor Recreation (OOR) within the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) recently announced the results of a year-long planning effort that brought together business, government, philanthropic, environmental, and economic development stakeholders. did. The future of Pennsylvania's outdoor sector. PEC is proud to be a part of that process. Nathan Reiner, Pennsylvania's first Outdoor Recreation Director, said the group's findings “will not only strengthen Pennsylvania's competitiveness and create greater economic prosperity, but will also improve the well-being, well-being of our communities. , it has become the basis for “improving sustainability.”
Governor Shapiro echoes this sentiment and has made recreation an important part of the state's economic development strategy. In addition, the Governor's 2024-25 budget expands DCNR's efforts to develop and improve trails and the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps program, which puts youth and young adults on a path to careers in conservation. is proposed to be expanded.
As PEC's new president, I will work with OOR, recreation and economic development interests, and the outdoor industry to better leverage Pennsylvania's great outdoor recreation opportunities that benefit public health, quality of life, and local economies. I'm looking forward to doing it. To learn more about OOR and read the new report, visit tinyurl.com/ns5aw3bp. To learn more about outdoor recreation opportunities in Pennsylvania and PEC's efforts to grow and support the industry, visit pecpa.org/outdoors.
Thomas Gilbert is president of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council.
