In all that we do, Tennessee Wildlife Federation serves to champion the great outdoors while taking a comprehensive, science-based approach to sound conservation and management policy and programming. This approach extends to stewardship, including fiscal stewardship of Tennessee resources.
Time and again, studies show positive outdoor recreation economic impact. In fact, a recent report by the Outdoor Industry Association shows that in Tennessee, outdoor recreation generates $21.6 billion in annual consumer spending and $1.4 billion in local and state tax revenue.
In addition to consumer contributions, outdoor recreation’s impact on Tennessee jobs and wages is significant–188,000 direct jobs and $6.5 billion in salary and wages stem from the industry. Employment opportunities alone surpass those offered by manufacturing industries in Tennessee.
59% of Tennessee residents participate in outdoor recreation
The economic benefits extend past our state borders to benefit our nation’s economy where $887 billion in annual consumer spending surpass some of the strongest sectors of spending, including pharmaceutical, motor vehicle, and gasoline and fuel spending.
Outdoor recreation draws both industry and families to Tennessee creating sustainable and diverse infrastructure and dynamics for local communities.
If the economic impacts alone are not enough drive desire for sound conservation policy, consider this: 59% of Tennessee residents participate in outdoor recreation, and Tennesseans are more like than the average American to participate in fishing and wildlife viewing activities.
In other words, Tennesseans are unplugging, getting outdoors, and connecting with nature. And, in the end, that pays big dividends for all.
Featured photo by Jeremi Hough
