Mandan, N.D. – North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum has taken a significant step towards harnessing the economic potential of outdoor recreation by establishing the state’s new Office of Outdoor Recreation. This move aligns North Dakota with 20 other states and Washington, D.C., all of which have recognized the importance of outdoor activities as a key driver of economic growth.
Governor Burgum signed an executive order to create the Office of Outdoor Recreation during a news conference held Thursday afternoon at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, situated south of Mandan along the Missouri River. The event was attended by key figures including Cody Schulz, Director of North Dakota Parks and Recreation; Jeb Williams, Director of North Dakota Game and Fish Department; and Sara Otte Coleman, Director of State Tourism and Marketing.
The governor emphasized the economic significance of outdoor recreation, which contributes over $1 trillion annually to the U.S. economy. In North Dakota alone, outdoor activities generate a substantial economic boost of $1.3 billion annually and support nearly 14,000 jobs.
“This new office will enable us to better coordinate with stakeholders and state agencies to enhance the impact of outdoor recreation in North Dakota,” Governor Burgum stated. “We are excited to deepen our collaboration with private sector partners who drive economic development and job creation in our state.”
Burgum highlighted the role of outdoor recreation in attracting talent to the state. “Providing quality recreational opportunities makes North Dakota more appealing to potential workers,” he noted.
The Office of Outdoor Recreation will operate within the Outreach and Engagement Division of the state Parks and Recreation Department, overseen by Cole Garman, Chief of Outreach and Engagement. Governor Burgum emphasized that the establishment of this office would not expand government but would utilize existing team members to develop its initiatives.
In conjunction with the launch of the Office of Outdoor Recreation, the state unveiled the OuterSpatial mobile app, designed to provide users with comprehensive information about outdoor offerings across North Dakota. This free app features details on special events, points of interest, and over 2,200 miles of statewide trails, enhancing the accessibility and promotion of outdoor recreation opportunities in the state.
During the press conference, North Dakota’s Parks and Recreation Department announced several initiatives, including the award of $1.2 million for trail construction and rehabilitation through the Recreation Trails Program Grant. Additionally, plans were unveiled to expand the Roughrider Trail from 16 to 20 miles, connecting Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park to various wildlife management areas, boat ramps, historic sites, and county parks.
The event concluded with themed tours of Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, offering attendees a firsthand experience of the state’s outdoor recreational offerings.