Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation Rolls Out ‘Elevate’ Initiative to Engage Outdoor Businesses

The RV Industry Association's Government Affairs team has been advocating for Offices of Outdoor Recreation (OREC) to become established across the country and further bolster states' outdoor rec economies. Pennsylvania began its Outdoor Office of Recreation last year, joining the ranks of the 25 states that have established an OREC Office or an OREC Task Force. The RV Industry Association is excited to see Pennsylvania's OREC Office launch the Elevate initiative, which will further strengthen Pennsylvania's outdoor recreation economy and help futureproof it for generations to come. 

Pennsylvania Director of Outdoor Recreation Nathan Reigner recently visited Easton Outdoor Company to announce the launch of Elevate, a new business engagement initiative designed to strengthen Pennsylvania's outdoor recreation industry by engaging directly with the businesses that drive it.

The Elevate initiative will connect with outdoor recreation businesses across the Commonwealth to identify barriers to growth, develop workforce solutions, and highlight Pennsylvania as a premier destination for outdoor recreation and a place where related businesses can thrive. Pennsylvania businesses involved in or benefiting from outdoor recreation are invited to complete a brief questionnaire.

This initiative advances Governor Josh Shapiro's commitment to strengthening Pennsylvania's outdoor industry, delivering on his promise to make Pennsylvania a national leader in outdoor recreation, entrepreneurial opportunity, and job creation.

“Outdoor recreation is already a major economic driver in Pennsylvania and my Administration is working to grow the industry even further by connecting the dots between businesses in the Commonwealth's outdoor recreation economy so they can help each other grow and succeed," Governor Shapiro said. “This initiative is an example of how our commitment to outdoor recreation can lift up communities, create good jobs, and fuel economic growth across Pennsylvania. Outdoor recreation isn't just about business or economics — it's about our quality of life and enjoying the incredible natural beauty we're lucky to have here in Pennsylvania."

The outdoor recreation industry in Pennsylvania employs more than 164,000 people and contributes $17 billion to the state's economy annually. Pennsylvania's outdoor recreation economy is vibrant and diverse — from designers, manufacturers, and retailers to distributors, experience providers, and creative professionals — each contributing to a thriving sector.

“Pennsylvania's outdoor industry is a diamond in the rough," Director Reigner said. “Elevate is a vital process that will help us engage outdoor businesses, understand their needs, and support this industry in delivering family-sustaining jobs, innovative products, and exciting services. Together, we can elevate Pennsylvania as a national leader in outdoor recreation."

Read the full press release here.