Lawmakers hear push to recognize private landowners and invest in Vermont's outdoor recreation economy

Representatives of Vermont's outdoor businesses, trail stewards and ski areas told the House Commerce & Economic Development Committee on Jan. 17 that the state's outdoor recreation economy generates billions in activity but depends on access to privately owned land and additional state support.

"For the record, I'm Kelly Alt, the executive director of the Vermont Outdoor Business Alliance," said Kelly Alt, who briefed the committee on data and the trade group's policy priorities. Alt said U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis figures put Vermont's outdoor-recreation contribution at about $2.1 billion in 2023, equal to roughly 4.8% of the state economy, and identified more than 16,000 workers in the sector.

The industry witnesses urged three broad strategies: (1) targeted state investments to help businesses adapt to climate impacts and innovate, (2) expanded workforce development and career-pathway supports, and (3) measures to secure public access to recreational trails that are predominantly on private land.

Alt told the committee the alliance's surveys and a Move Forward Together Vermont business survey shaped the group's 2025 priorities. She said respondents flagged climate events (58% reported impacts), the need for technical assistance (grants,…