Deputy commissioner tells committee outdoor recreation supports $15.6 billion economy and 114,000 jobs in Tennessee

Summary

Deputy Commissioner Brian Clifford told the House Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee that outdoor recreation generated $15.6 billion in economic impact last year (a cited 20% year-over-year increase), supported about 114,000 jobs and produced $1.4 billion in state sales tax revenue, crediting the Tennessee Outdoor Partnership.

Deputy Commissioner Brian Clifford briefed the committee during "outdoor day on the hill," saying Tennessee's investments in outdoor spaces are yielding measurable benefits. Clifford highlighted figures placed on members' desks: $15.6 billion in annual outdoor recreation economic impact (a stated 20% increase year-over-year), roughly 114,000 jobs supported (a stated 10% increase), $6.2 billion in wages paid to households (a stated 17% increase) and $1.4 billion in state tax revenue derived primarily from sales taxes.

Clifford thanked legislative investments and described the Tennessee Outdoor Partnership as a multi-agency, public-private collaboration that has helped break down silos and multiply state efforts. He also introduced the state's director of outdoor recreation (name provided in the record) and presented a ceremonial check representing the $1.4 billion in estimated state tax generation.

What happens next: The figures are intended to support continued legislative interest in outdoor investments and programs; lawmakers thanked the deputy commissioner and returned to committee business.