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ODNR outlines outdoor-recreation tourism data and partnerships with local CVBs
Summary
Director Mary Mertz told the Arts, Athletics and Tourism Committee that Ohio's outdoor recreation drives billions in economic activity, citing studies and examples of state-park programs, trails, boating, hunting and events; members asked about out-of-state license fees, access for urban students and invasive aquatic vegetation.
Director Mary Mertz of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources told the Arts, Athletics and Tourism Committee that outdoor recreation is a major driver of Ohio’s economy and described how ODNR works with local convention-and-visitor bureaus to promote overnight stays, events and trails.
Mertz cited agency and partner studies: a 2022 study of outdoor sportsmen and women that the department said generated an estimated $12.5 billion in annual economic activity, a 2023 study showing ODNR state-park overnight visitors generated $392 million in direct spending and nearly $40 million in state and local tax revenue, and a 2022 marine trade study estimating $6.4 billion in boating-related economic activity. She also said ODNR…
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