The pandemic brought droves of people to Wisconsin’s outdoors, resulting in crowds on trails and at camp sites as well as a growth in the outdoor recreation and manufacturing economy.
Hiking, camping, biking, and other outdoor activities have always been important to Wisconsin's residents and economy. They became even more so as a result of COVID-19.
As Barry Adams reports in this article, the pandemic actually boosted the outdoor recreation industry in Wisconsin, as evidenced by a 371% increase in searches for hikes and trails on travelwisconsin.com (the state's travel website), a 24% increase in the sale of ATV trail passes, a 100% increase in the number of those buying a fishing license for the first time, and an 18% rise in visits to state parks. The article shares the findings of a study conducted before COVID-19 which reveal just how significant the outdoor recreation is to the people and economy of Wisconsin:
- From 2012 to 2017, the state’s $7.8 billion outdoor recreation and manufacturing economy grew by 12% compared with 7% increase in the state’s overall economy.
- The recreation industry employs 93,000 people and creates $3.9 billion in wages. - Fishing contributes $1.5 billion to the state economy, while ATV riders spend $295 million and snowmobilers $250 million.
- 61% of Wisconsinites had boated in the past year and nonmotorized events like cross-country skiing, mountain biking and running races bring in almost $15 million just in the northern counties of Ashland, Bayfield and Sawyer.
- Bicyclists spend an estimated $534 million a year on trips in the state.
The study was commissioned by the state's department of tourism. Mary Monroe Brown, director of the department's office of outdoor recreation, indicates that the pandemic has only bolstered the above numbers, saying "We do know there has definitely been an increase in participation....And when you participate in an activity, you’re purchasing gear. And when you’re purchasing gear and using it in that activity, you’re going to certain places to experience that and staying in a cabin or camping or building out a van in order to experience all the great places Wisconsin has to offer."
FULL STORY: As tourism slumps, COVID-19 pandemic boosting Wisconsin's $7.8 billion outdoor economy
How COVID-19 Has Impacted Outdoor Recreation
A new report commissioned by the Outdoor Industry Association offers valuable insights about Americans’ engagement in outdoor activities amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Water Recreation Brings $18 Billion Annually to Colorado
Water recreation is an important contributor to the state's economy. A recent report found that water-related activities contribute an annual $18 billion to the state's economy.
Serpentine Maze: Pop-Up Parks in the Pandemic
If the combined effects of winter's cold and the pandemic has you bummed, check out this community-building exercise in the frozen North.
The End of Single-Family Zoning in Arlington County, Virginia
Arlington County is the latest jurisdiction in the country to effectively end single-family zoning.
The ‘Goldilocks Zone’ for Office Conversion
A formula for the ideal office-to-housing candidate.
Planners Look to ‘Activity Centers’ for Sustainable Development
Existing hubs of ‘hyperlocal’ economic activity provide a model for urban density.
Part of Houston’s Main Street to Be Permanently Pedestrianized
A seven-block stretch downtown will remain closed to cars after the success of a pandemic-era outdoor dining program.
Parking Reform Gains Momentum
More cities and states around the country are recognizing the value of eliminating parking requirements.
Pittsburgh Developers Push Back on Zoning Review Fees
An increase in fees for commercial construction projects is raising concerns from local developers who say the industry already faces rising costs to build in the city.
Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization
City of Kingsville
Princeton Planning
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Spearfish
City of Lomita
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
