Maine’s Outdoor Industry
With four distinct seasons, virtually every fresh-air adventure one could want, and a highly collaborative, closely-connected outdoor industry, it’s no wonder why Maine ranks fifth in the nation for the value outdoor recreation adds to the economy. Nature-based activities like boating, fishing, camping, hunting, and snowsports have collectively contributed billions of dollars to the state, and the industry as a whole is growing faster than Maine’s overall economy with no signs of slowing down.
It would be easy to attribute this prolific growth to Maine’s reputation as a scenic destination that’s steeped in history, however, it’s also driven by the impact of its legacy brands and new wave of innovative outdoor businesses that have chosen to call this state home.
Maine’s Office of Outdoor Recreation is also elevating the industry by leveraging the state’s assets and outdoor heritage to grow the outdoor recreation economy with partners from both public and private sectors — that’s one seriously powerful force of nature.
Outdoor Recreation is a key driver
of Maine’s economy
of Maine’s economy
$3B
Economic impact of Maine’s outdoor recreation economy in 2019
No.5
In the nation in the value outdoor recreation adds to the state’s economy
8.5%
Increase in outdoor recreation manufacturing the first year of the pandemic
40k
Jobs in the outdoor recreation industry in 2019
27%
Increase in boating and fishing the first year of the pandemic
50%
Of new hires reported by outdoor industry employers in Maine are under the age of 35
Outdoor recreation contributes to economic success in many ways.
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