Tennessee Establishes New Office of Outdoor Recreation to Boost Conservation and Local Economy

Nashville, Tennessee – A New Chapter for Outdoor Recreation

In a significant move aimed at enhancing outdoor enjoyment and conservation in the state, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) announced the establishment of the Office of Outdoor Recreation. This new office was unveiled during the second annual Tennessee Conservation Summit held in Nashville.

Goals and Objectives of the Office

The creation of the office reflects a broader initiative to improve conservation efforts and provide better access to Tennessee’s vast natural resources, which includes stunning parks, lakes, and rivers. At the summit, where various stakeholders gathered to align priorities on conservation strategies, Lee emphasized the importance of leveraging the state’s natural beauty to enhance the quality of life for both residents and visitors.

Brian Clifford has been appointed as the director of the newly formed office, which will operate out of TDEC in Nashville. He expressed enthusiasm about the opportunities this new position presents, saying, “This office will help us leverage Tennessee’s unparalleled natural resources and beauty to improve our quality of life and create lasting memories for Tennessee families and visitors.”

Investment in Tennessee’s Outdoors

Governor Lee and the Tennessee General Assembly have taken significant steps toward investing in the state’s outdoor recreation. The new office is designed to maximize the impact of these investments, ensuring that they translate into tangible benefits for the community. TDEC Commissioner David Salyers articulated the commitment of the state to conservation: “The governor and the legislature have given us the means and leadership to make conservation a priority across the state.”

One of the primary focuses for the Office of Outdoor Recreation will be the Tennessee Blueways initiative, which aims to develop a network of water trails throughout the state. This initiative is expected to result in cleaner and more accessible recreational waterways, enhancing the overall outdoor experience for Tennesseans and tourists alike.

Connecting Communities to Nature

Clifford highlighted the significant presence of rivers and fishing opportunities in Tennessee, especially for rural communities. He stated, “Tennessee is blessed with world-class rivers and fisheries, and our communities across this state, particularly rural areas, want better access to these unique waterways.” With this new office, the goal is to improve access and promote outdoor activities that benefit local residents.

Conservation’s Economic Impact

Governor Lee’s conservation strategy is more than just about protecting natural spaces; it’s also about driving economic growth, particularly in rural regions. By enhancing parks, improving waterways, and promoting outdoor recreation, the state aims to boost visitor engagement, ultimately leading to economic prosperity.

Jessica Wahl Turner, president of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, commented on the significance of Tennessee’s new office, stating, “The new office will take Tennessee’s $11.9 billion outdoor recreation economy to the next level.” She believes that the office will foster stronger relationships between various agencies and communities, connecting residents with the great outdoors and supporting a vibrant outdoor economy.

Looking Ahead

The Office of Outdoor Recreation is poised to become one of the most comprehensive organizations of its kind in the United States, bringing together different partners in conservation efforts. As it sets out on its mission, it plans to incorporate existing resources without adding to government expenditure, demonstrating a commitment to efficiency while enhancing Tennessee’s outdoor offerings.

In conclusion, the launch of the Office of Outdoor Recreation signifies a forward-thinking approach by the state of Tennessee. With a focus on conservation, improved access to outdoor activities, and an emphasis on the economic benefits of recreation, both residents and visitors are sure to appreciate the efforts made to enhance their outdoor experiences. This initiative represents a step toward ensuring that Tennessee’s natural beauty is preserved and enjoyed for generations to come.

For those interested in learning more about the Tennessee Office of Outdoor Recreation, further details can be accessed through TDEC’s communications.