Certainly! Great Outdoors Month is a wonderful celebration that encourages people to embrace nature and explore the outdoors. Here are some key points about this special month:
- Origins and Growth:
- Great Outdoors Month began as Great Outdoors Week under President Bill Clinton in 1998.
- Since then, it has evolved into a month-long celebration of outdoor activities and appreciation.
- In June 2019, the U.S. Senate officially designated June as Great Outdoors Month¹.
- Benefits and Impact:
- This celebration not only promotes health but also brings social and economic benefits.
- The Outdoor Recreation Jobs and Economic Impact Act of 2016 analyzed the outdoor recreation economy in the United States.
- The most recent report (released in September 2018) revealed that outdoor recreation contributed over $412 billion to the U.S. economy in 2016, comprising about 2.2% of total GDP.
- The outdoor recreation industry provided more than 4.5 million jobs across the country¹.
- Events and Activities:
- National Trails Day (first Saturday in June) recognizes the benefits of federal, state, and local trails. Activities include hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching, and land navigation education.
- Urban Kids Fishing Derby aims to help inner-city youth experience nature through fishing.
- National Get Outdoors Day (second Saturday in June) encourages people to explore the outdoors and enjoy recreational activities¹.
- Your Adventure Awaits:
- America boasts millions of acres of public lands, including national parks, wildlife refuges, and recreation areas.
- Whether you love camping, hiking, biking, swimming, or fishing, Great Outdoors Month invites you to find your own adventure on America’s public lands³.
So, get outside, breathe in the fresh air, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature during Great Outdoors Month! 🌿🌲🌞