From Trails to Jobs: Outdoor Recreation drives $3.2 billion economic impact in New Mexico

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) has released new data exhibiting outdoor recreation’s powerful and positive economic impact on New Mexico’s economy. According to the latest data from the BEA Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account, outdoor recreation created $3.2 billion in value added for New Mexico, accounting for 2.4% of New Mexico GDP and 29,182 jobs in 2023.

The BEA report indicates that 2023 has seen the largest recorded increase in New Mexico's outdoor recreation gross domestic product (GDP) at 6.6% compared to the previous year. Additionally, the industry has experienced steady growth in employment, with over 1,000 new jobs created. The report also highlights increased participation in activities such as hunting and trapping, kayaking and canoeing, and snow sports. The highest economic contributors to the state's outdoor recreation sector are RVing, boating and fishing, and snow activities.

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