New Pennsylvania Director of Outdoor Recreation Nathan Reigner joined state officials in a Monday morning event to highlight outdoor recreation’s importance.
The event was conducted at TCO Fly Shop in Boiling Springs. Reigner was joined by state Cindy Adams Dunn, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) secretary; Neil Weaver, DCED acting secretary; and Tim Schaeffer, Fish and Boat Commission executive director.
“Outdoor recreation is a central part of our lives, our communities, and our economy here in Pennsylvania,” Reigner said. “It contributes to our physical and mental health, our state’s gross domestic product, the vibrance of our towns and cities, and conservation of our lands, waters, and wildlife.”
The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) announced its support for Reigner and the newly created position.
“The appointment of Nathan Reigner is a huge step forward for outdoor recreation in Pennsylvania,” ORR President Jessica Turner said. “His leadership will be invaluable to growing the outdoor recreation economy in the state, as well as supporting rural economies and increasing access for all residents and visitors.”
Outdoor recreation generates $11.8 billion for the state’s economy, is 1.5 percent of its GDP and creates 146,000 jobs. Reigner said he will work to leverage Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation assets with various stakeholder groups to build and improve the state’s outdoor recreation economy.
“As Pennsylvania’s first director of outdoor recreation, I will work collaboratively with our state’s entire outdoor recreation sector, including businesses, non-profits, and government to expand and ensure the benefits of outdoor recreation for all Pennsylvanians as individuals, communities, and a commonwealth as a whole,” he said.
Pennsylvania is the 19th state to either create an office of outdoor recreation, director of outdoor recreation or initiate a task force to recommend an office.
