Our Views: La. residents love outdoors
Louisiana’s reputation as a sportsman’s paradise got a boost recently with the release of a report gauging the impact of outdoor recreation on the state’s economy.
Outdoor recreation generates $15.1 billion in consumer spending in Louisiana each year, according to a study sponsored by the national Outdoor Industry Association. The figures are based on a national survey conducted in 2011 and 2012. Outdoor recreation generates 146,000 jobs in Louisiana and $1.1 billion in state and local tax revenue each year, according to the association’s study.
We’re not surprised when an trade association releases a report boasting the economic impact of its members.
The OIA’s figures are a reminder, though, that many Louisiana residents enjoy the outdoors, and are willing to spend money to pursue this interest.