By the Numbers: Understanding Minnesota's Outdoor Recreation Economy

In this episode of Explore Minnesota More, Randolph and Chris Perkins discuss the latest Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) data on Minnesota's outdoor recreation economy. We explore what these numbers mean for Minnesota and why they matter.

Featured Guest

Chris Perkins is Vice President of Programs for the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable. 

Episode Highlights

• Minnesota's outdoor recreation economy generated $13.5 billion in GDP (2.8% of state GDP) in 2023, up from $11.7 billion the previous year
• The sector supported 96,000 jobs across the state
• Minnesota's 10.5% growth outpaced the national average of 9%

Key Segments of Minnesota's Outdoor Recreation Economy (2023)

• Boating and Fishing: $1.1 billion
• Hunting, Shooting, and Trapping: $554 million
• RVing: $528 million
• Motorcycling and ATVs: $457 million
• Snow Activities: $238 million
• Climbing, Hiking, and Tent Camping: $210 million

Notable Growth Areas

• Snow Activities: 32% growth
• Hunting, Shooting, and Trapping: 23% growth
• Motorcycling and ATVs: 19% growth
• Canoeing and Kayaking: 16% growth

Industry Challenges and Opportunities

• Climate change impacts on winter recreation
• Infrastructure needs
• Trade policy uncertainties
• Declining rates of core participation in outdoor activities
• The EXPLORE Act and its potential impact on outdoor recreation policy

Additional Resources

• Bureau of Economic Analysis Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account
• Minnesota Outdoor Recreation Industry Partnership
• Outdoor Recreation Roundtable

Credits:
Producers: Randolph Briley
Hosts: Sarah Strommen and Lauren Bennett McGinty
Original Music by Andrew Haaheim and Alsever Lake