The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) issued a statement following the 2026 midterm elections reaffirming the outdoor recreation industry’s commitment to working with every member of Congress, governors and state and local leaders to strengthen America’s outdoor recreation economy.
ORR also announced that it will host a virtual briefing on Nov. 18 to unveil new U.S. Department of Commerce data on the sector.
ORR Senior Vice President Whitney Potter Schwartz said, “Outdoor recreation is a powerful economic engine that touches nearly every community in America, generating $1.3 trillion in annual economic output, supporting 5.2 million jobs and accounting for 2.4 percent of the nation’s GDP, according to the most recently available data. From small businesses and manufacturers to outfitters, guides, and the gateway communities surrounding our public lands and waters, outdoor recreation creates jobs, strengthens local economies and improves the health and quality of life of millions of Americans.
“We congratulate the newly elected members of Congress and governors across the country and are eager to work with leaders at the federal, state and local levels to advance policies that support this vital industry, create jobs and expand opportunities for all Americans to enjoy the outdoors. ORR and our members have firsthand insights into the outdoor recreation businesses, destinations and experiences that make each state and congressional district unique.
On Nov. 18 at 11 a.m. ET, ORR will host a virtual briefing to unveil new economic data from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA). The 2025 dataset offers the most up-to-date look at the outdoor recreation sector’s economic footprint and its importance to communities across the country. The briefing will highlight key national and state data and analysis, including how the industry continues to bolster local economies, create jobs and demonstrate strength despite ongoing headwinds. Industry leaders from ORR, BEA economists and policymakers will take part in the discussion and provide expert analysis.
