The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership released a new economic study which found outdoor recreation in Pennsylvania, including hunting and fishing, generated $58 billion in 2020—that’s 26 percent more than in 2016.

The state’s wealth of natural resources and rich outdoor traditions also supported more than 430,000 jobs-- up 10 percent-- with Pennsylvanians earning $20 billion in salaries and wages.

The research, conducted by Southwick Associates for the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, showed that hunters and anglers, in particular, spent $1.6 billion, or 23 percent more, to pursue their passions.

Combined with activities like biking, camping, and snow sports, this helped to contribute more than $32 billion to Pennsylvania’s state GDP and over $6.5 billion in tax revenue at the federal, state, and local levels.

“The power of outdoor recreation spending in PA is undeniable, particularly since hunting, fishing, and boating provided a real lifeline to so many during the pandemic,” says Alexandra Kozak, Pennsylvania field manager for the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. “Conservation of our natural resources is critical for this to continue. That’s why our decision-makers should prioritize legislation that helps to invest in better habitat, cleaner water, and stronger outdoor recreation businesses.”

Click Here for a copy of the report.

The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership and its partners plan to point to the strength of the outdoor recreation economy when advocating for investments in Pennsylvania’s Growing Greener III program, a Clean Streams Fund, and other dedicated funding for conservation.

For more information, contact Alexandra Kozak, PA Field Manager for TRCP,  by sending email to: akozak@trcp.org.

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Check DEP’s 2022 Water Quality Report to find out how clean streams are near you.

NewsClip:

-- PennLive - Marcus Schneck: Outdoor Recreation Contributes Nearly $60 Billion In PA, New Study Says

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[Posted: April 29, 2022]

5/2/2022