Outdoor Recreation: Tell Governor's Task Force Your Ideas for Washington

In February, Governor Inslee formed a Blue Ribbon Task Force on outdoor recreation. Now that same task force needs to hear from hikers, trail runners and other trail users as they chart the future of recreation in Washington.

Task force aims to boost state recreation economy

The group has been tasked with developing a plan to nurture Washington’s outdoor recreation assets and state programs while increasing outdoor recreation activities and the economic boost it provides to the state.

As part of its efforts in engaging hikers and other recreationists, the task force is hosting meetings across the state to hear what matters most to people.

Attend an upcoming meeting, and tell the task force what matters most to you:

• June 10 in Spokane
• July 8 in Wenatchee
• August 19 in Port Angeles
  
  

Details about the meetings can be found on the task force’s website.

Can't make a meeting? Share your ideas for recreation online

If you can’t make it to a meeting, take part in a virtual town hall at Engage Outdoor Washington. Sign up to participate or connect with your Facebook account. Then just answer the rotating questions:

• Should the state leave outdoor recreation marketing and tourism to the private sector, or play a specific role?
• What are your ideas for getting outdoor companies interested in Washington state?
• What groups and individuals do you think participate less frequently in outdoor recreation in Washington. Why?
  

New questions are added periodically.

Why outdoor recreation matters in Washington

Outdoor recreation in Washington directly supports 227,000 jobs and generates $22.5 billion in annual spending on things like equipment, lodging and apparel. Each year, more than two-thirds of Washingtonians recreate outdoors. And of that economic activity is dependent upon a healthy, well-managed system of trails and other recreation facilities on public lands.

Whether it's tourism, jobs or health, that can be no question that outdoor recreation needs to be a priority in Washington.