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The Outdoors Generated $13.9 Billion for Michigan's Economy

11/21/2024

In 2023, thousands of Michiganders set out to explore — packing hiking boots, grabbing kayaks, and tracking steps while searching for close to home opportunities. But these adventures are more than a pastime; they’re an asset for Michigan’s economy.

The latest report from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) underscores the growing impact of outdoors in Michigan:

$13.9 billion in economic activity
118,000+ jobs supported
$6.4 billion in wages earned

Michigan’s 2023 Highlights

Outdoor recreation’s value to Michigan’s economy grew 8.1% since 2022.
Industry wages increased 7.3%, totaling $6.4 billion.
Boating/Fishing led the way, generating $1.2 billion.
Climbing/Hiking/Tent Camping grew to $206 million.
Hunting/Shooting Sports added $330 million to the state’s economy.

These figures reflect a vibrant and growing outdoor economy, driven by a deep connection to Michigan’s natural resources.

Michigan’s success is part of a bigger story. Nationwide, outdoor economy contributed:

$1.2 trillion in gross output (+5% from 2022)
5 million jobs and 3.1% of U.S. employment
Climbing, hiking, and camping grew 6%, while snow sports soared 23%.

Outdoor economy outpaced the broader U.S. economy in 2023, with GDP growth of 3.6% compared to the national average of 2.9%.

Growing, Thriving, and Inspiring

As outdoor recreation continues to grow, so does our responsibility to increase investment, protection, and accessibility to our trails, parks, and open spaces that make it all possible.

“Outdoor recreation is a cornerstone of Michigan’s economy, but its value goes beyond dollars,” said Andrea LaFontaine, Executive Director of Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance. “To sustain this growth, we must invest in protecting and enhancing these spaces.”

Every trail, park, and natural space plays a role in the lives of Michiganders. They’re places of adventure, connection, and economic vitality. But they need care to thrive.

“This is our moment to ensure Michigan’s outdoors remain accessible, healthy, and thriving for future generations,” said Jonathan Jarosz, Executive Director of Heart of the Lakes. “Whether it’s investing in open spaces, expanding trail systems, or creating equitable access, we all have a part to play in sustaining this momentum.”

“The outdoor recreation industry is more than just a source of joy and connection to nature—it’s a powerhouse for our local economy,” said Nichole Fisher, mParks Executive Director. “This data underscores the critical role parks and recreation professionals play- from designing accessible trails to managing safe and sustainable spaces, their work not only enriches lives but also strengthens our local economies and communities.”

Michigan’s outdoor economy is more than a success story — it’s a call to action. From paddling the Great Lakes to hiking wooded trails, these experiences drive a sense of purpose and community that’s uniquely Michigan. Let’s keep building a future where the outdoors continues to inspire and strengthen both people and the economy.

2023 in Review

12/26/2023

Starting Off 2023 With A Conservation Win

In January, we shared news and case highlights for an easement violation in Acme Township. Heart of the Lakes partnered with the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, the Land Trust Alliance, and the American Farmland Trust to file an amicus brief with the Michigan Court of Appeals. We're excited to report that the brief successfully supported a conservation win! You can read an in-depth case summary by HOL's Legal Affairs Committee.

When Flannels, Khakis, and Suits Collide

Heart of the Lakes traveled to Lansing in March to partner with Michigan Recreation & Parks Association (mParks) on a Parks and Open Space Advocacy Day. Members from HOL and mParks teamed up to meet with key legislators and shared issues of importance around conservation and recreation. The day was a loud statement on the vital role our parks, trails, and open spaces play in benefiting the health and economy of our communities and all those who call Michigan home.

HOL also participated in the annual mParks Conference & Tradeshow by leading sessions focused on the impact and capacity for creating accessible urban open spaces (recordings from these sessions here!). And while we were there, we recorded three podcasts as part of our urban conservation work with The C.S. Mott Foundation and The Conservation Fund. The podcasts will host a variety of leaders, stakeholders, supporters, and on-the-ground catalysts!

Mr. Bean Goes to Washington, DC

Heart of the Lakes had the opportunity to join Outdoor Industry Association and other state and national outdoor leaders in Washington, DC. From panels and events to hitting the Hill, it was a packed week spent with many partners and friends. Collectively using our outdoor voices to speak loudly for the places we love — on key topics such as the Farm Bill, Climate Conservation Corps, and Creating Equitable Access to the Outdoors — to name a few.

Representing Michigan in meetings through the Land Trust Alliance's efforts were our members and friends, Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy and Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy. As the voice for Michigan's land and waters, it takes passionate and committed organizations to advocate for the protection of Michigan's natural resources — the benefits open spaces extend to our economy, communities, and health and wellbeing.

Fueled by Caffeine + A Passion for the Outdoors

Heart of the Lakes partnered with Boxed Water and Populace Coffee to launch a collaborative campaign to contribute to our conservation efforts in Michigan.

In May, Boxed Water and Populace Coffee introduced a special instant cold coffee bundle, where 10 percent of the proceeds will be donated to Heart of the Lakes. With each purchase, coffee lovers will enjoy smooth chilled flavors and directly contribute to protecting our land and water.

Creating Open Spaces Close to Home

In August, we had the opportunity to tour the many upgrades and features of Chandler Park and open spaces within Detroit's Poletown East neighborhood that are creating more close-to-home opportunities to get outside. Featured projects ranged from forest and prairie restoration work to outdoor walking trails and areas for spiritual reflection. The tour was hosted by Detroit Parks Coalition and Detroit Future City with support from Heart of the Lakes.

Igniting Passion + Purpose

The 2nd Michigan Outdoor Summit, held on September 26-27th, brought together all sectors of the outdoor economy to connect, learn, grow, and build together with a vision for the future, health, and vitality of Michigan's outdoors. Heart of the Lakes worked with a team of organizers — investing months of planning and preparation to ensure a unique experience for attendees.

The event showcased the growth and increased interest in Michigan's vibrant outdoor community, offering a stoke-packed agenda full of outdoor activities, inspiring presentations, discussions, and technical and breakout sessions aimed at helping more people get outside and protecting the places they love.

Expedition Detroit provided a comprehensive overview of the event's key takeaways, shedding light on significant developments for the outdoor economy and its future in Michigan. The article highlights four main points: the pandemic boost to the outdoor economy, the importance of inclusivity, defining the future of outdoor culture, and the need for investments to continue improving the outdoor economy.

Nearly a Million Acres Protected in Michigan

We're stoked to share that Michigan's land conservancies and the broader conservation community have protected nearly a million acres — 806,560 to be exact — of natural, scenic, and working farms and forest lands throughout the state! This data is collected through our Michigan Protected Lands Survey, tracking multiple protection tools used to protect the places you love.

This milestone represents a significant step forward in our collective efforts to protect the places we love and ensure the well-being and accessibility of Michigan's land and water for future generations. In the full report, share and find more information, including numbers for members and other organizations, along with data comparisons over the years (who doesn't like a good bar graph?).

Open Spaces Open Minds: A Call for Access and Investment

The outdoor economy has tremendous value to Michiganders — being outside is good for our physical and mental well-being, helps us connect with family and friends, and is the foundation for a powerful stewardship ethic and a passionate community of advocates.

The recent release of statistics by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) showcases the impact of outdoor recreation on the economy.

In 2022, outdoor recreation contributed $12.4 billion to Michigan's economy, supporting 119,000 jobs and generating $5 billion in wages.
At a national level, these new numbers show outdoor recreation generates $1.1 trillion in gross economic output, 3.2% of U.S. wage and salary employment, and 4.98 million jobs. This means the outdoor recreation economy contributes more to the U.S. economy than mining, utilities, farming and ranching, and chemical products manufacturing.

With outdoor recreation growing, it's even more essential to invest and advocate for statewide policies that bolster access to the outdoors, expand trail networks, and safeguard our open spaces to ensure that every Michigander has the opportunity to enjoy, explore, and benefit from our state's unparalleled outdoor resources.

Support Our Work

Outdoor Recreation Generated $12.4 Billion for Michigan’s Economy

11/22/2023

As the call to "opt outside" echoed throughout our state — the post-Thanksgiving tradition of reconnecting with the outdoors instead of Black Friday lines — Michiganders filled parks, trails, and open spaces celebrating Michigan’s outdoor culture, the businesses and organizations who support it.

Now and throughout the year, Michiganders' embrace outdoor experiences, demonstrating the strength and depth of our state’s outdoor economy.

The power of Michigan’s outdoor economy was heralded by recent release from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) on the impact of outdoor recreation on our state. In 2022, outdoor recreation contributed $12.4 billion to our state’s economy, supporting 119,000 jobs and generating $5 billion in wages.

This current release establishes a new benchmark for Michigan since the BEA started calculating the size of the outdoor recreation economy in 2017. It demonstrates the tremendous economic and social value the outdoors has for Michiganders. Being outside is good for physical and mental well-being, helps us connect with family and friends, and is the foundation for a powerful stewardship ethic and a passionate community of advocates.

Critical factors in how the outdoor recreation industry contributed to Michigan's economy in 2022:

Outdoor recreation made up 2.2% of Michigan's economy
119,000 people work in the outdoor industry in Michigan, a 7% increase from 2021
Michigan's outdoor recreation industry added 10,000 jobs
Manufacturing of outdoor recreation gear and equipment contributed $1.9 billion
Outdoor Retail contributed nearly $4 billion to Michigan's economy

Top activities that contributed to Michigan's GDP in 2022:

RVing, Boating, and Fishing — $1.1 billion
Hunting/Shooting/Trapping — $304 million
Motorcycling/ATVing — $278 million
Climbing/Hiking/Tent Camping — $149 million

With outdoor participation ever-growing, it's even more essential than ever for us to invest and advocate for statewide policies that bolster access to the outdoors, expand trail networks, and safeguard our open spaces to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy, explore, and benefit from our state's unparalleled outdoor resources.

"These numbers are more than just figures on a page; they are an invitation to appreciate the significance of outdoor recreation in our lives," shared Nichole Fisher, Executive Director at mParks. "Michigan's parks, trails, and open spaces have long been sanctuaries, offering solace and becoming economic pillars for our communities."

At a national level, these new numbers show outdoor recreation generates $1.1 trillion in gross economic output, 3.2% of U.S. wage and salary employment, and 4.98 million jobs. This means the outdoor recreation economy contributes more to the U.S. economy than mining, utilities, farming and ranching, and chemical products manufacturing. This is the first time the outdoor economy has surpassed the one trillion-dollar mark.

"If there's one thing to take away from today's BEA presentation, it's this: the state of the outdoor recreation economy is strong, and sustained investment in outdoor recreation and our shared public lands and waters pays dividends for our local and national economies and quality of life," said Jessica Turner, president of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR). "Our industry continues to provide benefits to communities across the country – big, small, urban, and rural alike. To ensure that this success is sustainable and that our public lands and waters will continue to be accessible to all Americans for generations to come, we will continue to work together with leaders on the passage of America's Outdoor Recreation Act by the end of this year. We are thrilled to once again see the data reflect what we hear everyday, that outdoor recreation is not a nice to have — but a necessity for healthy people, places, and economies."

Open Spaces Open Minds: A Call for Access and Investment

The consistency of these annual reports from the BEA signals a clear return on investing in our natural spaces, public health, and fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurship, small business growth, and workforce quality of life.

"We continue to recognize that our state's trails are vital economic engines, not just pathways for recreation. These statistics reinforce the importance of developing and preserving these spaces, not just for their inherent beauty but for their undeniable role in fueling economic growth and opportunity," added Andrea LaFontaine, Executive Director at Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance.

Amidst changing landscapes and evolving economies, the enduring presence of local public spaces stands as a testament to resilience, offering recreation, economic fortitude, and community resilience.

“Michigan has more acres of public land than any state east of the Mississippi, with more opportunities for deep partnerships between business and conservation. Our economy is driven by close-to-home open space that has been, and must continue to be, a constant source of wellness and enjoyment," emphasized Jonathan Jarosz, Executive Director at Heart of the Lakes.

Jarosz continued, “Our state has the people and the assets to be one of the top five outdoor economies in the country. A coordinated strategy between state government, private business, and nonprofit supporters will ensure economic stability and a high quality of life for generations to come."

For those seeking solace, adventure, or economic opportunity, the BEA’s 2022 numbers underscore the immense value of Michigan’s outdoors. As Michigan continues to celebrate and cherish our heritage, and our outdoor industry, the economic and personal benefits they offer can be a model for the rest of the country.

2022 In Review

12/28/2022

Michigan Outdoor Summit

In March, over 100 land, park, trail professionals, outdoor industry leaders, advocacy and policy movers, storytellers, and fresh air enthusiasts gathered in Traverse City for the MI Outdoor Summit! Chock-full of good conversations, presentations, discussions, adventures and some coffee breaks. Thank you to all who spent their weekend with us — hope you had a blast. Another MI Outdoor Summit will be coming in September 2023!

Exploring Access Along the Saginaw River

Every other month the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) Board and Staff conduct a public meeting to review and discuss grant proposals and internal business priorities. Meetings are held across the state with an opportunity the day before to showcase Trust Fund projects in the region. Heart of the Lakes hosted our partners, peers, and MNRTF Board and Staff in Bay City for an afternoon exploring partnerships between local organizations and the Trust Fund that have improved access along the Saginaw River.

Heart of the Lakes organized this tour in partnership with the Bay Area Community Foundation, The Conservation Fund – Great Lakes, Great Lakes Bay Regional Trail, Land of Outsiders, Saginaw County Parks & Recreation, and Spicer Engineering.

Investing in Farmland Preservation

Heart of the Lakes had the unique opportunity to share its members' priorities with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, Senator Debbie Stabenow and Congressman Dan Kildee. This power trio was in Frankenmuth this month to announce that funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act will allow the USDA to invest over $20 billion to support farmland conservation programs providing more assistance to landowners.

Intersection of Conservation + Outdoor Recreation

Back in June, Heart of the Lakes' Executive Director co-moderated a panel session at Outdoor Retailer on strengthening outdoor recreation throughout the states. HOL believes that the conservation community and the outdoor recreation industry share mutual goals in protecting where we play. HOL continues to make connections and build relationships with industry partners who share the same affinity and voice their support for our outdoors.

Outdoor Recreation Generated $10.8 Billion for Michigan Economy

11/14/2022

Last week, the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis released statistics measuring the outdoor recreation economy. In 2021, outdoor recreation accounted for $862 billion in economic output (consumer spending), 1.9 percent or $454 billion of gross domestic product (GDP) and supported 4.5 million jobs. In Michigan, outdoor recreation in 2021 contributed $10.8 billion to the state economy, supported 109,000 jobs, and $5 billion in wages.

Heart of the Lakes, mParks, and Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance are thrilled to celebrate the 2021 report. The new data shows a $173 billion increase in consumer spending in 2021 vs 2020. This analysis demonstrates outdoor recreation's powerful and positive economic impact on the U.S. economy as the nation rebounded from the COVID-19 pandemic and Americans prioritized time outside.

"In the last few years, we have seen so many new people trying new outdoor activities. The availability and accessibility of outdoor recreation have welcomed a whole new population of outdoor enthusiasts," said Clay Summers, executive director of mParks. "It's no longer exclusionary, and we welcome all new participants and stewards of our public spaces."

In 2021, Michigan ranked in the top ten in dollars generated from Boating/Fishing (#5) and RVing (#6), each generating $947,910,000 and $719,914,000, respectively. The state sits within the top 20 of all other measured activities: Hunting/Shooting/Trapping (#10), Motorcycling/ATVing (#13), Equestrian (#19), Climbing/Hiking/Tent Camping (#11), Snow Activities (#15), Bicycling (#20), Recreational Flying (#17).

"The year-over-year increase in value-added by hiking, biking, running, and paddling are proof that Michigan's investments in trails have big payoffs," said Andrea LaFontaine, executive director of Michigan Trails & Greenways Alliance. "We continue to attract destinations for travelers while maintaining beautiful public lands for our residents."

Inflation-adjusted GDP for the outdoor recreation economy increased by 18.9 percent in 2021, compared with a 5.9 percent increase for the overall U.S. economy.

"The rate at which the outdoor recreation economy continues to increase is a great sign for our state. As more jobs are being created, more talent is moving to Michigan, more money is being generated, and in turn, more investments are being made in our outdoors spaces,” said Jonathan Jarosz, executive director of Heart of the Lakes.

Outdoor Recreation has sustained remarkable growth over the years, supporting people, communities, and economies in Michigan and across the country, especially in rural areas. The outdoor recreation economy came back stronger than ever after the COVID-19 pandemic and remained a steady source of strength nationally and a booming job creator locally. Coupled with the Outdoor Foundation's recent findings that outdoor participation levels are at an all-time high, the economic data reinforces the strength of the outdoor industry as both an economic and social force.

North Country Trail Association Seeks Director of Trail Protection

5/20/2022

The North Country Trail Association is seeking a full-time Director of Trail Protection to lead the efforts to securing permanent corridor for the North Country National Scenic Trail and surrounding landscapes. Full description and application details here.

Leelanau Conservancy Seeks Fund Development Director

5/20/2022

The Leelanau Conservancy is seeking a full-time Fund Development Director responsible for leading, creating and executing fundraising strategies, along with continuing to build, engage and retain a growing donor base. Full description and application details here.

Chikaming Open Lands Seeks Seasonal Workers

5/20/2022

Chikaming Open Lands is seeking a full-time, seasonal Stewardship Field Technician to participate in planning and implementation of land stewardship activities, and participation in education and outreach programs. Full description and application details here.

COL is also seeking a part-time seasonal Outreach + Marketing Intern responsible for assisting with planning and implementation of outreach and education programs. Along with participating in development, marketing and communication activities. Full description and application details here.

Chikaming Open Lands Seeks Education + Outreach Coordinator

5/20/2022

Chikaming Open Lands is seeking a full-time Education + Outreach Coordinator responsible for developing, planning and implementing conservation and stewardship education programs, community and member engagement, and increase awareness for the organization. This position is also responsible for website, social media and event needs. Full description and application details here.

Advice from Dogs on Pursuing an Outdoor Life.

12/28/2021

Dogs naturally live in the moment — unburdened from the everyday minutiae their outlook is simple; eat, drink, sleep and play. But arguably, they probably look most forward to adventuring with us. There's a reason we have to spell out "W-A-L-K" because they instinctively know that word directly correlates with being outdoors. Dogs are the best adventure buddies because they know the hype and receive the same influx of endorphins when they step outside. So that got us wondering, if dogs could talk, what would they say about living your best outdoor life?

We recruited the help of the dogs from Heart of the Lakes to share a "loose" interpretation of what this advice might be. Hit the plus signs (+) to see what they have to say!

Bark loudly for the places you love.

Despite a cool demeanor, Beau likes action. Running for miles along the trails and alerting his hooman to the sounds and scents he encounters along the way. Beau is most content outside in the fresh air, where he feels most wild and free.

If Beau could talk, we'd reckoned that he'd tell you to bark loudly for the places you love - because the outdoors is one giant playground, so why wouldn't you protect where you play?

Hooman: Jonathan J.
Favorite Open Space: Riverview Natural Area

find your stick.

Or, in Jack's case, the bigger, the better. Be curious and confident when finding your outdoor niche. It can be as relaxing as watching the birds or as exciting as hanging your head off the side of a boat. Whatever your adventure style, Jack says to stick with it and remember you can always find a bigger and juicier adventure when you're outside.

Hooman: Janet B.
Favorite Open Space: St. Johns Marsh

follow the scent.

Smells can trigger our memories. For Watson and Lily, having a full snout bank reminds them of the places they've been — forever connecting that specific scent with a location. Whether you flare your nostrils upwards or point them low to the ground, exploring new places keeps the memory collection going.

Hooman: Ginny L.
Favorite Open Space: Border to Border Trail

Bask in the sun.

Once a day, the sun will move into perfect position over your favorite spot, and when that happens, take Mulligan's approach and bask in it! The time is right for only a short period, take it all in while you can and look forward to repeating it all over tomorrow.

Hooman: Pete D.
Favorite Open Space: Hoffmaster State Park

take the path less traveled.

You can explore open spaces everywhere and some have more hooman traffic than others. Though he does enjoy the hooman interactions, Doc prefers to find the less popular places to recreate responsibly. Fewer distractions and more room to roam can make all the difference in enjoying the outdoors.

Hooman: Brad J.
Favorite Open Space: Huron Lake Shoreline

Get your tail wagging.

The outdoors is exciting, especially when you're going somewhere or trying something new. Honey encourages you not to fight it and let your tail wag wild! This is your own experience, don't let bystanders diminish the swiftness of your tail.

Hooman: Anne F.
Favorite Open Space: North Country Trail

Start 'em young.

It's never too early to introduce the littles to the outdoors. Even if they tend to eat anything they find on the ground like Daisy. We can learn so much from the outdoors — about ourselves and the natural environments around us.

Growing up with an appreciation for the outdoors develops us into better stewards and defenders of the outdoors.

Hooman: Steve M.
Favorite Open Space: Clay Cliffs

Save the snaptweet.

Whenever Sherman and Radar are outside, their only focus is what's around them. They don't know what Snapchat or Twitter is — instead, they wonder why your attention is on the device in your hand rather than immersing yourself in the sites, sounds and smells surrounding you. Take the picture, return to the moment and save the post for later.

As the hoomans might say, don't let FOMO take over, or something like that!

Hooman: Chris B.
Favorite Open Space: Cashion Lake

Bark when it counts.

Take it from Lexi, learning a new skill takes time and patience. You won't be an avid fisherman when you bark at the fish before the hook sets. Put your hours in and learn from others — then before you know it, you'll understand to bark as soon as that fish catches the line.

Hooman: Janet B.
Favorite Open Space: St. Johns Marsh

Welcome everyone.

The outdoors looks different for everyone and how you enjoy nature may not be the same for another. Leroy happily welcomes all to his play domain (the more the merrier if it were up to him!), but if your not into chasing and peanut butter kongs, he will respect your interests.

There's room for everyone outdoors — whether you're a dog, cat, big hooman, tiny hooman or even a chicken.

Hooman: Ross H.
Favorite Open Space: Boardman Lake Trail

Always Be Ready.

Adventures can come when you least expect it (and according to Schuyler — so can treats from the UPS hooman!). Keep your ears perked and remember that no adventure is too big or too small if you're always ready for a challenge.

Hooman: Pete D.
Favorite Open Space: Hoffmaster State Park

Be a good steward.

There's always time for fun, but there's also time to keep where we play exactly how we found it. Hudson would never leave his toy floating in Lake Michigan (c'mon, that defeats the whole purpose of fetch!). As thrilling as it is to find another's left behind toy, Hudson knows it's better to leave no trace — especially when you come across those smelly doggie bags.

Hooman: Tom N.
Favorite Open Space: Palmer Woods

Embrace your puppy.

The outdoors has the power to turn up a frown and make us feel young. Even the lowkey Zeke can find his inner puppy when he steps outside. It might take a few sniffs, but once that fresh air hits — it's on!

Hooman: Anne F.
Favorite Open Space: North Country Trail

take a break.

And take your time to stop and smell the flowers (and bush, tree — maybe that pole too). Everything moves so fast around us, so Greps likes to take his time, observe and appreciate the little things you find along the trail. The rush of every day can wait and sometimes so can the rest of the walk. So find a bench and take an extra break!

Hooman: Andrea L.
Favorite Open Space: Quarton Lake Trail

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