Senator O’Mara has highlighted the economic potential of outdoor recreation in his latest column, emphasizing its importance during National Park and Recreation Month. The Outdoor Industry Association’s 2025 report shows increased participation in activities like hiking, camping, and fishing. Seniors and youth have notably contributed to this growth.
The federal Bureau of Economic Analysis reported that the outdoor sector grew by 37% from 2012 to 2023, surpassing other major sectors. It provides nearly five million jobs nationally and generates over $1 trillion in economic output.
O’Mara states, “Outdoor recreation has been a cornerstone of American life,” reflecting its role as an economic driver. In New York State alone, it supports 275,000 jobs and generates around $31 billion annually.
More than half of Americans engage in outdoor activities yearly, making over 10 billion outings. Surveys show significant economic impact from wildlife-related recreation.
New York’s state parks system is crucial for job support and consumer spending. Parks & Trails New York estimates that state parks contribute significantly to the economy with every dollar invested yielding nine dollars in consumer spending.
O’Mara emphasizes the importance of leveraging New York’s unique outdoor experiences to boost local economies through increased spending on goods and services provided by local businesses.
