Whatcom Recreation Economic Study Released by Recreation Northwest Whatcom Recreation Economic Study Released by Recreation Northwest Outdoor Recreation Generates $705 Million in Annual Spending in Whatcom County Wednesday, April 22, 2015 BELLINGHAM, WA, April 21, 2015—Recreation Northwest, Whatcom County, City of Bellingham, Port of Bellingham and Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism announce the findings of a groundbreaking new study: The Economic Contribution of Outdoor Recreation to Whatcom County, Washington. Read more
Klobuchar, Wyden Call On Administration To Conduct National Report Detailing Economic Benefits of Outdoor Economy Washington D.C. Monday, April 13, 2015 While the federal government currently collects certain data on the benefits of the outdoor economy, we lack clear and comprehensive data on its contributions to growth and job creation at the national level. In a letter to the Secretaries of the Departments of Commerce and the Interior, Klobuchar and Wyden urged the Administration to undertake a new nationwide study that will provide businesses and policymakers with the data they need to make informed decisions and ensure our outdoor economy continues to thrive. Read more
State Parks Budget Update State Parks Budget Update WSP Director, Don Hoch Tuesday, April 7, 2015 (Sent to staff Thursday April 2, 2015) Now that we've seen all three operating budget proposals from the Governor, House and Senate, I want to provide you a little more detail. Read more
Earth Month Roundup 2015 Earth Month Roundup 2015 EarthShare Wednesday, April 1, 2015 The first Earth Day on April 22, 1970 was the catalyst that helped jumpstart the modern environmental movement, inspiring citizens around the world to demonstrate their commitment to a healthy and sustainable world. Earth Day is just one day, but there are opportunities to get involved all month long, thanks to EarthShare member charities and affiliates. Here’s our roundup of just some of the activities you can join this April. If you don’t see an opportunity in your area, enter your zip code into our volunteer widget to search for events, or visit Idealist.org. Read more
House Budget a Step in the Right Direction House Budget a Step in the Right Direction Washington Wildlife & Recreation Coalition Friday, March 27, 2015 The Washington Wildlife and Recreation Coalition, which brings together 280 businesses and non-profits, applauds the state House’s capital construction budget. The budget announced today includes $75 million in funding for the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) and preserves the integrity of the program. The WWRP is the state’s premiere conservation and recreation program. It is the largest source of funding for local parks and trails and the only Washington state program that preserves farmland. WWRP funded projects have also done more to protect and restore Puget Sound than any other program. Read more