The economic impact of outdoor recreation in Kentucky has grown by more than $8 billion from 2012 to 2016.
That’s according to a recent economic impact study from the Outdoor Industry Association - their first since 2012. Outdoor recreation in Kentucky totaled more than $12 billion last year in consumer spending. The report indicates that Kentucky supports 120,000 outdoor recreation jobs and generates nearly $760 million in state and local tax revenue.
The national impact in consumer spending on outdoor recreation grew roughly $240 billion since 2012.
Kentucky Department of Tourism Commissioner Kristen Branscum said the state’s natural beauty and outdoor opportunities have allowed tourism to grow across the state.
OIA is a national trade organization advocating for industry growth in outdoor recreation.