The Healey-Driscoll Administration is taking a step outside, officially joining the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) – a prominent coalition of states, non-profits, and businesses that aims to spark the growth of the nation's outdoor recreation industry. The Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation (MOOR) becomes the newest member of a group dedicated to the enhancement and accessibility of outdoor pursuits across America.
The Bay State has thrown its hat in the ring, vowing to collaborate with the ORR to advance its already significant outdoor recreation economy, worth a hefty $11.8 billion. According to an announcement by MOOR, the coalition will provide invaluable resources, including advocacy, and rural development tools, and hands-on training. “Massachusetts is thrilled to join our industry, academic, and other state partners as a new member of ORR,”, told Paul Jahnige, the head of MOOR.
With more than 110,000 outdoor-centric businesses bolstering local economies, the partnership's significance is clear. ORR's Vice President of Programs, Chris Perkins, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, celebrating the swift actions taken by Director Jahnige and his office to strengthen Massachusetts' place on the map of outdoor recreation. "It is an exciting day to bring Massachusetts into the fold as an ORR State Member," Perkins remarked.
MOOR, which was established in December 2022, has already begun to work with agencies to promote a wide range of outdoor activities including hunting, fishing, horseback riding, paddling, swimming, and more. These activities are not only fun but are pivotal to the state's economy, creating over 102,000 jobs, and encouraging tourism. The future looks green for Massachusetts, as MOOR aims to work in tandem with the ORR to drive economic growth, ensure equitable access to nature for all citizens, and bank on the health benefits of the great outdoors. In a move reflecting this inclusive vision, the recent launch of the Massachusetts Inclusive and Accessible Events Grants Program was aimed to foster equity and a sense of belonging in recreation.
