OUR INDUSTRY
Economic Impact
Driving the Economy
Outdoor recreation is a major economic force for Wisconsin. From tourism to manufacturing to retailers and outfitters, it is a job-supporting industry that provides an unmatched quality of life that people in Wisconsin enjoy.
In 2024, Wisconsin's outdoor industry contributed a record-breaking $12 billion to the state's gross domestic product. The industry supported over 100,000 jobs and provided over $5.7 billion in salary and wages to Wisconsinites.
At the Community Level
Boosting Local Economies
Outdoor recreation's economic impact matters at the local level as well. The Office is committed to helping communities understand and elevate the economic impact of outdoor recreation in their areas. Our DIY Economic Impact Program guides teams through the research, analysis and reporting they need to tell the story of outdoor recreation and make strategic investments in their future.
DIY Economic Impact Program
Measuring Local Benefits
Three Eagle Trail: The Economic Significance of a Community Connector
Peninsula State Park: The Economic Impact of New Mountain Bike Trails
Olbrich Botanical Gardens: A Blooming Economic Force in Madison
Oconto County: Where Water Meets Wilderness — The Economic Value of a Loyal Visitor Base
Heart of Vilas Trail System: Fueling Five Connected Communities
Eau Claire: The Economic Significance of the City’s Paved Trails and Public Art
Dodge County: Visitor Spending at Outdoor Spaces Supports Local Businesses
Nine Mile County Forest: The Economic and Visitor Impact for Marathon County
Historical Trends
