State Senator Tom O'Mara used his weekly column for the week of July 13 to highlight the economic role of outdoor recreation across New York and the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions. The column coincides with National Park and Recreation Month, which is recognized in July.
O'Mara cited federal Bureau of Economic Analysis data showing outdoor recreation grew 37% from 2012 to 2023 and reached $1.3 trillion in nominal gross output in 2024.
The column also cited Outdoor Industry Association figures showing 183.2 million Americans participated in outdoor activities, or 59% of people ages 6 and older. The report said participation among seniors and children increased, while the average participant took five fewer outings per year than in 2019.
In New York, O'Mara said outdoor recreation provides 275,000 jobs and generates more than $31 billion in economic activity. He also cited Parks & Trails New York estimates that the state's parks and trails system supports more than 50,000 jobs and nearly $6 billion in park and visitor spending.
O'Mara, a former chair of the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee, said outdoor recreation supports local businesses, tourism, jobs and tax revenue.
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