The state is launching new programs that promote Vermont’s recreational ethic as a way to propel the economy, according to Gov. Phil Scott.
At his weekly press conference Thursday, Scott announce pilot projects designed to draw more locals and out-of-state visitors to Vermont’s parks. All three initiatives — the Outdoor Recreation Friendly Town Program, the Outdoor Business Alliance and the Camping Gear Loan exchange — are designed to help communities expand local outdoor recreational markets and create equitable access to the outdoors.
The pilot projects were recommended in a report issued by the Vermont Outdoor Recreation Economic Collaborative. The governor formed the commission in June.
“These recommendations have real potential and opportunity to grow our economy and strengthen what we cherish most our natural landscapes and the chance to enjoy the outdoors in our beautiful state,” Scott said.
For the past eight months, the 15-person commission has been working on a plan to increase equity and bolster the economy through a strategic approach to the outdoor recreation sector, according to Michael Snyder, commissioner of the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation.
The outdoor recreation sector supports 34,000 jobs and $2.5 billion in consumer spending.
The pilot programs will be supported by nonprofit and for-profit companies with a focus on increasing jobs, stewardship and appreciation for the outdoors, Scott said.
The camping gear loan exchange, for example, will allow families to borrow camping equipment through a cooperative effort between the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation with the Outdoor Gear Exchange. The only piece of camping equipment that will not be available for loan are sleeping bags, which will be for sale for a discounted price through the Outdoor Gear Exchange.
“Through this effort we hope to instill a lifelong appreciation for enjoying our environment,” Scott said.
Marc Sherman, co-founder and owner of Outdoor Gear Exchange, said the economic benefits of outdoor recreation go beyond the numbers.
“When the outdoor recreation economy grows, Vermont benefits well beyond the most basic measure of GDP,” Sherman said. “We build healthier communities, we engage with the natural landscape, and we retain and attract the youth by providing them with the access and opportunity they want.”
Sherman said his own staff ranges in age from 19 to 58. Their jobs enable them to get others excited about the outdoors and on their days off they are enjoying the outdoors themselves. This dynamic between work and recreation is what attracts young people to Vermont, he said.
Cindy Locke, executive director of the Vermont Association of Snow Travelers and a member of the commission, emphasized the intersection between Vermont’s history and economic future.
“We find history in the discovery of old Vermont settlements, we find friendship, peace and solace, and we discover why we are all so fortunate to live here,” Locke said. “Now we move into a time with VOREC where the outdoor recreation that we all so enjoy will be measured by the economic impact it brings to our state.”
