Wyden, Klobuchar Call on Administration to Conduct National Report Detailing Economic Benefits of Outdoor Economy

U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., today called on the Interior and Commerce Departments to conduct a national report detailing the economic benefits of our country's outdoor economy. While the federal government currently collects certain data on the benefits of the outdoor economy, we lack clear and comprehensive data on its contributions to growth and job creation at the national level. In a letter to the Secretaries of the Departments of Commerce and the Interior, Wyden and Klobuchar urged the administration to undertake a new nationwide study that will provide businesses and policymakers with the data they need to make informed decisions and ensure our outdoor economy continues to thrive.

"It comes as no surprise to Oregonians that outdoor recreation can be as beneficial to local economies as it is to our way of life," Wyden said. "From the Pacific Crest Trail, to the banks of the Sandy River and from the Oregon Caves to Crater Lake, Oregon's vast array of outdoor recreation opportunities creates jobs and bolsters rural businesses. Sen. Klobuchar and I are asking the administration to make sure entrepreneurs all across the country have the information they need to make the most out of what's already there and so Americans can put their money where their hiking boots are."

"Minnesotans understand how critical outdoor recreation is to our economy," Klobuchar said. "When people fish in our lakes and streams and hunt in our forests and fields, that translates to more jobs and economic activity in our state. Unfortunately, right now we don't have a comprehensive picture of how these activities contribute to economic growth at the national level. By launching a nationwide study of the benefits of outdoor recreation, we can arm businesses and policymakers with the data they need to make smart decisions and ensure our outdoor economy continues to thrive."

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