New data from the US Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis shows the outdoor recreation sector’s growing impact on the national and local economy. Nationally, BEA reports outdoor recreation generates $1.1 trillion in economic output—2.2% of the gross domestic product—4.98 million jobs and comprises 3.2% of US employees.
According to the state, New Mexico’s outdoor recreation economy grew 1.8% from 2021 to 2022; had $2.4 billion in value added for the state; and accounts for 1.9% of state GDP, including nearly 28,000 jobs. The state created its Outdoor Recreation Division in 2019; ORD, which is part of the state Economic Development Department, has a variety of programs and grants aimed at boosting the sector. “The BEA data validates the ongoing efforts of New Mexico’s Outdoor Recreation Division to create jobs through the Trails+ grant program, support economic growth, and offer equitable access to the outdoors through the first-of-its-kind Outdoor Equity Fund,” ORD Director Karina Armijo said.
“Based on the data, we can affirm these outdoor recreation-focused programs benefit all New Mexicans and outdoor recreation businesses throughout the state.” According to the state, since its creation, ORD has invested $10 million in trails and infrastructure projects and awarded Outdoor Equity grants to 181 organizations allowing more than 58,000 youths to experience recreational activities. The Trails+ program was created to grow outdoor access for residents and visitors around the state. It was also created to preserve wild places within New Mexico. Since its creation, the grant program has already funded over 90 projects, including trail design and construction, signage, river access, outdoor classroom infrastructure, picnic shelters and wildlife viewing areas.
“The outdoor recreation industry is a consistent economic and jobs driver, even in times of economic uncertainty,” Acting New Mexico Economic Development Department Cabinet Secretary Jon Clark says in a statement.
In 2021, the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy Project in Bernalillo was awarded a Trails+ grant for river access projects.