Thankful for a beacon of bipartisan cooperation — the outdoor economy

As we gather around dinner tables this week it’s fitting to reflect on the treasures that extend far beyond our homes and cities — America’s public lands and waters. As the president of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, I’m grateful for the wealth of natural splendor that spans our nation and for the support Congress has shown through critical legislation aimed at preserving not just these invaluable resources, but also our ability to connect to places through so many different forms of outdoor recreation.

This Thanksgiving, our gratitude extends to the sprawling acres of prairie, vast networks of rivers and lakes, serene seashores, endless mountain ranges, dense forests, local campgrounds, and urban parks and trails that define our outdoor heritage. These places are not merely places on a map, they are sanctuaries that invite us to explore, reconnect, recharge, and even work off some of the Thanksgiving feast. They are the canvas upon which countless memories are painted — a testament to the adventurous spirit woven into the fabric of our nation.

Amidst the fervor of partisan divides, it’s heartening to witness bipartisan efforts coalescing around a shared appreciation for the outdoors. The America’s Outdoor Recreation Act in the U.S. Senate and the comprehensive outdoor recreation package to be introduced in the House next week stand as beacons of unity and compromise in an often-divided Washington. These legislative initiatives transcend politics, and our entire $1.1 trillion industry is thankful for the bipartisan leadership of Sens. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) and John Barasso (R-Wyo.) and Reps. Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) and Raul Grijalva (D-Ariz.).

The significance of these legislative endeavors cannot be overstated. It is no longer enough to simply protect places we want to leave for future generations, we must manage them soundly, connect people to them, tell their diverse stories, and ensure agencies and public alike have every tool possible to make data-driven and educated decisions. This recreation package is the first of its kind and represents a proactive stance in securing the future of an industry that fuels economic growth in every corner of the country and supports 5 million jobs. In fact, the outdoor recreation economy grew 2.5 times faster than the national economy 2021-2022 according to the U.S. Department of Commerce. From the bustling trails of our national forests to the rapids on our Bureau of Land Management rivers, these places hold the promise of adventure and tranquility, serving as playgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities, backgrounds, and ages.

The outdoor recreation industry stands on the shoulders of these natural wonders, drawing inspiration and livelihood from their unspoiled beauty. It’s an ecosystem where small businesses thrive and where gear is smarter than phones. It’s a gateway to the unknown and where every footstep taken is a testament to the enduring bond between humans and the natural world.

Yet our public lands and waters face challenges — from overuse and aging infrastructure to climate change and natural disasters — that threaten their integrity. It’s in these moments of shared concern that the resilience of our nation shines through. With both chambers of Congress and both political parties championing recreation bills, we have the opportunity to enhance accessibility, fortify rural economies, and invest in the sustainability of these cherished landscapes.

Our nation’s outdoor legacy is entrusted in our care and a gift worth preserving. This Thanksgiving, as we express gratitude for our blessings, let us also express our commitment to preserving and improving the natural splendor and outdoor opportunities that define America and celebrate not only what is on our table but also the richness of open spaces right outside our door. 

 Jessica Wahl Turner is president of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable.