On November 10th, 2020 the US Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) released 2019 data measuring the economic value of the outdoor industry nationally and by state. The data affirmed the significant impact that outdoor recreation is having on the economy as a whole and for Colorado in particular, showing the industry contributes to 3.1% of the state’s GDP. Check out the article published by the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) that breaks down the data and click on the links below for the BEA press release and data reports.
“BOULDER, Colo. – The Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) welcomed today’s release of new U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) data showing the economic impact of outdoor recreation. BEA found outdoor recreation contributed to the economies of all 50 states and accounted for 2.1 percent ($459.8 billion) of current-dollar gross domestic product (GDP) and $788 billion in gross output (consumer spending) in 2019 – a $10 billion consumer spending increase from 2017. The data also show an increase in outdoor recreation employment and compensation. Given the rise in outdoor participation during COVID-19, it is likely these figures will be even higher for 2020….” -Ryan Taylor, the Outdoor Industry Association. Click here for more
