Research & Branding
HOW WE COMMUNICATE OUR IMPACT
Vermont Outdoor Data
VOBA and outdoor recreation partners work together collaboratively, inclusively, and with data-driven decision-making. Several data sources demonstrate the sector's economic and social impact: US Bureau of Economic Analysis and the Vermont Outdoor Business Survey as part of Move Forward Together Vermont.​
Data released by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) demonstrated that in 2023 outdoor recreation generated $2.1 billion in value added for Vermont, accounting for 4.8% of Vermont’s gross domestic product (GDP).
In 2023 there were 16,283 people employed in outdoor recreation jobs in Vermont according to the BEA.
Outdoor Recreation jobs are provided by small businesses from gear manufacturers to rental and repair shops, to four-season resorts, guide services, retail stores, and lodging providers.
Accommodation and food services make up a significant portion of Vermont’s outdoor recreation economy, generating $733.5 million in 2023 according to the BEA.
The State of Vermont has invested over $11 million in state grants to projects in all 14 counties that build connections between outdoor recreation resources and the benefits that come from participating in outdoor recreation.
Tourism is an integral part of the local level outdoor recreation economy in Vermont. New data in 2024 showed that tourism is a $4 billion industry in Vermont and that $446 million was from recreation and entertainment.
People move to Vermont because of outdoor recreation. Vermont experienced a net gain of 7,500 residents moving from other states according to the Vermont Treasurer’s Office analysis of U.S. Census data and Treasurer Mike Pieciak noted remote work flexibility and outdoor recreation opportunities have helped attract these residents.
Move Forward Together Vermont Insights
60% of outdoor businesses who participated in the Outdoor Business Survey shared that the top barrier to their workforce is the cost of living in Vermont.
Focus group conversations highlighted the top challenges towns face to investing in an outdoor recreation economy includes:
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o Applying for grants
o Maintenance of outdoor spaces
o Adequate emergency response services
Focus group conversations also highlighted the need for towns to have better data and examples that can be used to help them talk with select board members about what an outdoor recreation economy looks like and means for their local area.
Participants in the Outdoor Business Survey identified that the top activities they support include: bicycling, hiking/walking, snowshoeing, alpine skiing, cross country skiing, and snowboarding.
Participants in the Outdoor Business Survey also shared that word of mouth is a major way they promote their products and services.
58% of participants in the Outdoor Business Survey have been impacted by recent climate events in Vermont.
58% of participants in the Outdoor Business Survey do not have a plan, program, or initiative to increase workforce diversity.