Bennet, Schumer Introduce Legislation To Invest in Outdoor Recreation, Promote Economic Growth In Rural Communities

Today, U.S. Senator Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) and U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) introduced the Rural Outdoor Investment Act to promote economic growth in rural communities through strategic investment in outdoor recreation. This legislation would provide $50 million a year in recreation and economic development funding to rural communities across the country working to revitalize and grow their economies through the outdoor recreation industry.

“From skiing our mountains in the winter to floating our rivers in the summer, Colorado is home to some of the best outdoor recreation in the country,” said Bennet. “As demand for outdoor recreation grows, it’s important that our investments benefit local communities, businesses, and families themselves. Our legislation will help rural areas across Colorado manage the growth around the outdoor industry in a sustainable way that creates local jobs, boosts the economy, and meets the unique needs of each community.”

“From the trails of the Adirondack Mountains to waters of the Finger Lakes, outdoor recreation is the lifeblood of so many of Upstate New York’s communities, especially our rural areas. Since the start of the pandemic, people’s passion for the outdoors has only grown, but investment for this vital economic engine has remained trapped inside,” said Schumer.  “That is why I was proud to introduce the Rural Outdoor Investment Act with Senator Bennet, to hike up federal resources for communities across New York, boosting tourism, supporting small businesses, and strengthening our outdoor recreation economies. This bill will jump-start economic recovery from the pandemic for some of our most underserved areas, create good-paying jobs, and give a breath of fresh air to our main streets across New York.”

Over the past several decades, demand for outdoor recreation has grown — especially during the pandemic. Well-planned investments in outdoor infrastructure and related businesses is essential to boost rural economies and help them meet this growing demand. This legislation invests in three critical areas:

• Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure, including boat ramps, parking at trailheads, picnic areas and other outdoor facilities.
• Planning to support communities that want to create an outdoor experience that meets expectations and grows Main Street.
• Business Assistance to support recreation related businesses such as: vehicle, gear, and equipment rentals; shuttles; guides and outfitters; in addition to hotels, restaurants and retail.

The Rural Outdoor Investment Act promotes collaboration between the Economic Development Administration, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development, and Small Business Administration to educate communities and businesses about existing federal resources like grants and business loans. It would also authorize funding for the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities Program at USDA and the Environmental Protection Agency to provide planning assistance grants to support rural economies through outdoor recreation.

The Rural Outdoor Investment Act Includes: 

• $30 million for public works through EDA to fund necessary infrastructure improvements from signage, to boat ramps, to new trails.
• $5 million for planning grants through EDA for communities to create recreation economy plans that optimize their natural opportunities including marketing, branding, business development, fundraising, tourism management.
• $2.5 million in university partnerships to promote place-based research, education and technical assistance to local stakeholders and businesses for this high growth sector.
• $12.5 million for the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities grants for main street revitalization through outdoor recreation.

For over a decade, Bennet has worked with Coloradans to protect the state’s precious natural resources while boosting the economy that depends on them. That includes developing the Colorado Outdoor Recreation and Economy (CORE) Act. Last year, Bennet, U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), and U.S. Representative Joe Neguse (D-Colo.) introduced this legislation to grow Colorado’s outdoor recreation economy and protect over 400,000 acres of public land in the state, establishing new wilderness, recreation, and conservation areas, and safeguarding existing outdoor recreation opportunities.

The bill text is available HERE. A one page summary of the bill is available HERE.

“In the past two years there has been a fundamental change in the way Americans travel, vacation, and live as more people turn to the outdoors and outdoor recreation for not only the enjoyment it brings but also the mental and physical benefits of being outdoors. This resurgence of the great outdoors is an excellent opportunity for economic growth in rural communities, many of which have recreation assets like trails, campgrounds, lakes, and rivers. The Rural Outdoor Investment Act is an important piece of legislation that will provide funding to help these communities grow their local economies through investment in outdoor infrastructure and related businesses. As more and more RVers hit the road, heading to their favorite destination to take part in outdoor recreation activities, this legislation will improve not only their experiences, but also the rural communities making investments in recreation infrastructure,” said Jay Landers, Vice President of Government Affairs, RV Industry Association.

“Rural communities across the country are dealing with economic and infrastructure challenges stemming from COVID-19, climate change, and transitioning economies, all while trying to seize opportunities from massive shifts in workforce and the influx of Americans seeking the outdoors. The Rural Outdoor Investment Act will provide much-needed planning, infrastructure, and business support to communities as they attract a remote workforce, grow jobs, welcome visitors, and strengthen their economies through outdoor recreation,” said Jessica Turner, president of Outdoor Recreation Roundtable. “ORR has long known the return from investing in outdoor recreation in rural economies, and we applaud Senators Schumer and Bennet for introducing this forward-thinking and essential legislation that will support every corner of the country.”

“RV owners love to take the road less traveled.   The ROI Act will help rural communities further develop their capacity to provide support for outdoor recreation and the growing RV customer base, while improving job opportunities across America,” said Phil Ingrassia, President, National RV Dealers Association.

"The Rural Outdoor Investment Act will make Colorado even more fun and amazing. The Rural Outdoor Investment Act is a winning idea for Colorado's rural communities, will help create good jobs and ensure our outdoor recreation economies continue to thrive. I thank Senator Bennet for showing Congress how Colorado's own efforts to support outdoor recreation and economic development by lowering costs for Coloradans, creating new state parks and maintaining our existing parks, while partnering with local governments, will continue to create jobs and help our nation's economy,” said Colorado Governor Jared Polis.

“NW Colorado communities and their economies benefit greatly from the wide range of outdoor recreation including hiking, biking, hunting and many other outdoor activities. The Rural Outdoor Investment Act aims to help further diversify and strengthen our economy in Craig and Moffat County.  Craig and Moffat County Chamber of Commerce enthusiastically supports this legislation,” said Jennifer Holloway, Executive Director, Craig and Moffat County Chamber of Commerce.

“Visit Moffat County / Moffat County Tourism Association enthusiastically supports the Rural Outdoor Investment Act legislation.  Craig, Colorado and the surrounding region has world class topography that would be perfect for new outdoor recreation opportunities.  Planning and proper management of these opportunities would be highly beneficial to Moffat County citizens and visitors alike,” said Tom Kleinschnitz, Director, Visit Moffat County.

“We all know that folks visit and move to Colorado for recreational opportunities and access to our beautiful outdoors. As a commissioner from Larimer County, home of Rocky Mountain National Park and the largest wildfire in Colorado history, I believe that the Rural Outdoor Investment Act (ROI) can help our community," said Larimer County Commissioner Jody Shadduck-McNally. "Unfortunately, the recreation industry has suffered in our county recently, and I am appreciative of Senator Bennet’s support to revitalize this sector.”

“Throughout the pandemic, Americans have ventured outdoors for respite and renewal. We now have a unique opportunity to harness outdoor recreation for revitalization and resilience. This legislation will help America’s rural communities invest in recreation infrastructure that will bolster economies and develop new workforce opportunities,” said Taldi Harrison. “At REI Co-op we believe time outside is fundamental to a life well-lived. By enhancing access to quality recreation opportunities, this legislation will also support the special benefits to health and wellbeing provided by time in nature."

“Rural communities across the country, especially those that have suffered a long history of the unpredictable boom and bust cycles of extraction, have seized the opportunity to leverage the outdoor recreation industry as the key economic driver in their cities and towns to build sustainable growth and provide durable jobs.  A successful outdoor recreation economy doesn’t happen by accident. It thrives on investments in trail infrastructure, riverfront projects, public lands, parks, and walkable and bikeable pathways to our schools and businesses. The Rural Outdoor Investment Act is an important piece of legislation that will provide funding to help these communities invest in and grow their local economies. Furthermore, the recreation economy those investments help create is defined by more than jobs and economic growth; it brings a quality of life that residents can enjoy every day, and that attracts young families and growing companies who strengthen and diversify our rural economies. The outdoor recreation  economy is a powerhouse economic driver that sustains rural communities,” said Sarah Shrader, Owner and Co-Founder, Bonsai Design and President, Outdoor Recreation Coalition of the Grand Valley.

“Demand for outdoor recreation is only growing, and NSAA supports the Rural Outdoor Investment (ROI) Act and its emphasis on much needed investments in infrastructure, planning and business assistance. This measure complements Senator Bennet’s SHRED Act by making recreation a priority, boosting rural economies and improving the recreation experience for all,” said Geraldine Link, Director of Public Policy, National Ski Areas Association.  

“The outdoor recreation industry is a growing opportunity of economic development for rural communities, but in many places our public lands are over-loved. This bill is an excellent opportunity to support communities and small businesses who support the outdoor industry and invest in infrastructure needed to support outdoor recreation. I would like to thank Senator Schumer and Senator Bennet for understanding the needs of our rural communities and being responsive leaders,” said Hilary Cooper, San Miguel County Commissioner.

“The outdoor recreation economy is a $887 billion economic engine that supports not only millions of jobs nationwide, but also helps connect people with wildlife and outdoor spaces. This legislation from Senate Majority Leader Schumer and Senator Bennet makes strategic investments in rural communities that are central to supporting our outdoor way of life,” said David Willms, senior director of western wildlife for the National Wildlife Federation. “Thank you to Senators Bennet and Schumer for their commitment to rural communities and support for responsible recreation that enhances our public lands and waters and supports robust wildlife populations.”

“The Rural Outdoor Investment Act will help bridge the gap between companies, communities and government to ensure that rural communities don’t get left behind in the modern economy.  The Conservation Alliance supports this forward thinking creative approach to ensuring that the challenges that are facing rural communities right now are faced with smart planning, better infrastructure and support for local businesses.  We support this legislation wholeheartedly and look forward to working with Senator Bennet and Majority Leader Schumer to ensure its passage,” said Shoren Brown, Interim Executive Director and Director of Government Affairs and Advocacy, The Conservation Alliance.

“The Return on Investment Act is going to make a real difference to communities across the country working to improve quality of life for residents, while attracting both visitors and business investment. Outdoor access is a powerful economic driver and this bill is going to be a key tool for cities and towns seeking to diversify their economies,” said Ashley Korenblat, CEO Western Spirit Cycling.

"The International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) enthusiastically supports the Rural Outdoor Investment (ROI) Act. IMBA's focus, in part, is to expand mountain biking and trails in rural America to create happier, healthier and more prosperous communities. We look forward to working with Senator Schumer, Senator Bennet, and the outdoor recreation community to help our rural communities realize this impactful investment,” said David Wiens, Executive Director, International Mountain Bicycling Association.

"I believe The Rural Outdoor Investment Act (ROI) will provide increased economic opportunity in our community. However, I am even more excited about the increased recreational opportunity ROI will contribute," said Larimer County Commissioner Kristin Stephens. "Knowing that time spent outdoors is beneficial for the physical and mental health of our community members and visitors, I am proud to support this bill."

“Strategic investment in outdoor recreation planning, infrastructure, and business will help rural communities to grow resilience and provide an economic foundation to face the economic, social, and environmental challenges of the 21st century. Rural communities understand the ecosystem services value of outdoor recreation, and these critical and timely investments will help create career pathways, grow prosperity, enhance public health, and improve quality of life in rural communities across the country," said Laurel Harkness, Executive Director, Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals.

“The Rural Outdoor Investment Act will deliver much-needed funding for outdoor recreation infrastructure in rural communities at a time when a historic number of Americans are rediscovering their passion for getting outdoors. We applaud Senator Schumer for leading the charge to protect and expand outdoor recreation opportunities and look forward to working with him to pass this vital measure,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, President, National Marine Manufacturers Association.

“The Rural Outdoor Investment Act will create common-sense changes to pre-existing programs and direct money to communities to help bolster and grow their outdoor recreation economies. From additional funding to improve boat ramps to money aimed at helping communities market their recreational offerings, this bill will benefit the recreational boating industry, boaters and anglers, and rural communities alike,” said Jeff Strong, Vice Chairman, MRAA Board and President, Strong’s Marine, Mattituck, N.Y.