Outdoor recreation refers to any type of entertainment engaged in outdoors, most commonly, but not solely, in natural settings.
When considering the economic impact of outdoor recreation, the whole scope of activities must be considered. Activities such as picnicking, camping, kayaking, bicycling, horseback riding, motorcycling, mountain and rock climbing, boating and outdoor photography, among other things, and, of course, hunting and fishing as well. While this is an extensive list, it is hardly exhaustive.
When the pandemic hit in 2020, more and more people began to realize just how important getting outside meant to them. More people were engaged in outdoor gardening and family activities than at any time in recent history. Engaging in outdoor activities provides a sense of well-being, enhances our overall physical health, inspires wonder and awe of our natural surroundings, and motivates us to be better stewards of our lands.
It is difficult to determine the exact amount of outdoor recreation that Americans engage in throughout the year. Still, in 2016, Congress passed the Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact Act, which directed the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) in the Department of Commerce to create an account that would attempt to measure the outdoor recreation economy.
When measuring all aspects of outdoor recreation, activities are grouped into two main categories. “Nature-based” outdoor recreation activities are those activities that occur in natural settings–such as hunting, camping, boating, canoeing, and hiking. “Other” outdoor recreation activities are those that occur in urban or developed settings — such as tennis, golf, zoos, amusement parks, and music festivals.
The activities that contribute the most value to the outdoor recreation economy depend on the state’s own natural and man-made resources. For example, in Colorado, snow sports are a significant contributor to the economy, and in Florida, amusement parks (as well as beaches) are major contributors to the economy.
Mississippi has its fair share of natural resources and has seen an increase in resources contributing to the outdoor recreation economy. Also, the outdoor recreation economy of Mississippi is supported by thousands of workers across all outdoor recreation industries in the state.
Thankfully, Congress has realized they have a vested interest in determining the economic impact of outdoor activity because Congress helps to shape outdoor recreation throughout the nation through legislation and oversight. Statistics have shown that supporting activities, such as travel, tourism, and construction expenses are wise investments for the present, as well as the future.
James L. Cummins is executive director of Wildlife Mississippi, a nonprofit, conservation organization founded to conserve, restore and enhance fish, wildlife and plant resources throughout Mississippi. The website is www.wildlifemiss.org.
