On May 6 and 7, the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable convened an inaugural National Executive Forum on Health and Outdoor Recreation in Washington, D.C., marking a significant milestone in the industry's push for recognition as a key sector of the U.S. economy.
The two-day gathering brought together top outdoor recreation industry leaders and health experts to discuss the role of outdoor recreation in supporting youth and community wellbeing, reducing chronic disease, and driving economic opportunity.
Across 10 cross-sector sessions, participants aligned on a clear path forward: expand recreation access close to home, deepen partnerships between healthcare and the outdoor economy, and elevate trusted voices championing time outside as essential to physical and mental health.
The Forum's focus on public health and wellness underscores the growing recognition of outdoor recreation as a critical component of overall well-being.
In addition to policy discussions and presentations, the Forum featured fireside conversations and historic announcements that put America's Outdoor Era front and center.
ORR's national vision to reposition outdoor recreation as a cornerstone of U.S. health infrastructure was reinforced through the gathering, with participants emphasizing the need for increased access to nature-based activities.
The event also highlighted the importance of intergenerational collaboration in promoting outdoor recreation and its benefits, with speakers discussing the role of youth development and community health in driving positive change.
As the outdoor recreation industry continues to evolve, events like this Forum serve as a catalyst for meaningful conversations and collective action towards a healthier, more active America.
The Forum's emphasis on intergenerational collaboration highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to promoting outdoor recreation and its benefits.
