The outdoor industry continues to grow in the Natural State. Here are some economic reasons to continue to improve the state’s outdoor recreation opportunities and protect the special places that we not only enjoy but are also key to the economic development of Arkansas.
Outdoor recreational activity generates $887 billion in consumer spending each year, according to a report released April 25 by the Outdoor Industry Association.Most of that spending ($702 billion) was tied to travel-related spending, lodging, fuel, guides and lessons, while about $185 billion was spent on gear, apparel, equipment, services and vehicle purchases related to the industry, according to the report.Each year, consumers spend more on outdoor recreation than on pharmaceuticals and fuel, combined, and almost as much as they did on hospital care, according to Bureau of Economic Analysis data cited by the report. Joe Jacobs, marketing and revenue manager for Arkansas State Parks, said he wasn’t…
Source: Report: Consumers spend $887 billion on outdoor recreation each year – Talk Business & Politics
