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New study released by Outdoor Industry Association highlights job creation, economic growth
June 20, 2012
WASHINGTON – Congressman Charles F. Bass (NH-02) applauded encouraging figures released by the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) today which show that 6.1 million jobs are supported by the outdoor recreation industry.
At a briefing on Capitol Hill earlier today with Senator Mark Udall (D-CO) and Will Manzer, the CEO of Eastern Mountain Sports, which is headquartered in Peterborough, Bass hailed the strong contributions that the outdoor recreation industry makes in New Hampshire and across the country.
Bass said:
"New Hampshire boasts some of the most beautiful and scenic spots in the country. From fishing to hunting, bird-watching, hiking, skiing, boating, swimming, and taking scenic drives, the Granite State offers a little of everything for the outdoor enthusiast.
"As we all know, our environment and our economy go hand-in-hand. Not only is the tourism industry a major component of our state's economy, but outdoor recreation goes beyond the visitors to our state and is first and foremost about the daily lives and outdoor lifestyles of New Hampshire residents. In our state alone, we are home to leading outdoor retailers like EMS, manufacturers of skis and ski boots, makers of outdoor supplies, and builders of the firearms used for hunting, for example. Not only do we utilize the products that these companies make, but residents work in their stores and their factories, earning a living and supporting their families and communities.
"Today's report by the Outdoor Industry Association highlights how important it is to ensure we preserve our state's natural resources for generations to come. I will continue supporting bipartisan measures and programs like the Land and Water Conservation Fund that strengthen our commitment to conserving open spaces and, ultimately, boost our economy."
Among the findings in the OIA report are that Americans spend $646 billion in outdoor recreation each year on outdoor recreation product sales and trips- and travel-related spending, and that outdoor recreation generates $39.9 billion in federal tax revenue and $39.7 billion in state and local tax revenue. While 2012 state-by-state figures are not yet available, last year the outdoor recreation industry supported more than 53,000 jobs in New Hampshire alone.
A copy of OIA's report can be found here.
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