Lise Aangeenbrug, executive director of OIA, said: “Our outdoor spaces are a place of refuge to safely socialize, not to mention improve physical and mental health. 

“Prioritising conservation of public lands and waters is critical to ensuring the outdoors remains accessible for everyone, mitigating the impacts of the climate crisis, and spurring economic recovery. This is the opportunity for which many of us have been waiting to enact long-lasting conservation goals, equitable access, and climate results that the outdoor industry, our communities, and the economy will depend on for generations to come.

“But as we all know, conservation efforts are not one-size-fits-all – for example, what works in Virginia may not be suitable for a situation in Montana. That is why the outdoor industry is particularly pleased this report puts an emphasis on supporting locally-driven conservation projects across the country. 

“As the Biden administration continues to pursue these laudable conservation goals, this blueprint is an important first step to ensuring these efforts are thoughtful and inclusive. It is essential for the federal government to work in tandem with state governments, private landowners, and all interested stakeholders. We are glad to see that guiding principle prioritised in this report.”