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ORIP Director’s Note
We have great news for August. Minnesota’s outdoor recreation industry story just got much clearer. With the release of our inaugural Minnesota Outdoor Recreation Economic Impact Report (see details below), we now have a comprehensive, data-driven understanding of how this sector supports jobs, drives tourism, and contributes to rural vitality across the state. This report confirms what many of us have long known: outdoor recreation is a serious economic force.
In the months ahead, we’ll be taking this data on the road as part of our statewide outreach tour — using it to spark conversations, highlight local strengths, and build momentum for even more inclusive, resilient growth. I look forward to seeing you soon!
- Randolph
Partnership Updates
New Report: Outdoor Recreation Fuels $23.5 Billion in Economic Activity
In July, Explore Minnesota and ORIP released the state’s first-ever Minnesota Outdoor Recreation Economic Impact Report. This report offers the most detailed picture to date of how outdoor recreation powers our state’s economy. The numbers are mind-blowing:
- $13.5 billion in direct GDP — representing 2.8% of the state’s total economy
- $23.5 billion in gross economic output and more than 96,000 jobs
- Outdoor recreation accounts for 3.1% of all employment in Minnesota, with particularly high concentrations in rural and tourism-based counties
The report breaks down impacts by activity, region, and industry, showing that:
- Boating and fishing are Minnesota’s top contributors, generating $1.14 billion in GDP and supporting 9,600 jobs. This includes everything from license sales to bait and tackle to boat purchases.
- Public lands — including state parks, forests, and national forests — anchor both resident and visitor activity as areas where most people spend their time recreating.
- Visitor spending in areas with state parks and trails exceeds $1 billion annually, with strong rural impacts
- Seasonal diversity (snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, ice fishing) creates year-round economic value
The report also highlights the benefits of outdoor recreation on health and wellness, community identity and youth development — making a strong case for continued investment in infrastructure, stewardship, and access.
📖 Read the full report here or listen to our latest podcast episode on the topic.
First stop on the 2026 Outreach Campaign Announced!
Starting in September (through 2026) we will visit every region of the state to share the latest numbers and discuss how we can grow the outdoor industry together. Our first stop will be September 10th, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Bloomington REI Community Room.
If you’re in the metro-area and interested in attending the event, please sign up here. If you’re not in the metro area, we’ll be coming to a town near you real soon! Stay Tuned!
Your New Hiking Buddy – A Life-Sized Troll
There are nine trolls in the Detroit Lakes and Frazee area just waiting to accompany you on your next outdoor adventure. Check out the episode of Explore Minnesota More where we connect with local “troll-handlers” who developed the plan with community support and turned a magical idea into epic outdoor adventures.
Outdoor Industry News DNR Wants Your Input on Outdoor Recreation Fees
The Minnesota DNR is seeking public feedback on potential changes to fees for accessing outdoor recreation opportunities. This includes:
- State park vehicle permits
- Trail and facility access fees
- Hunting, fishing, and recreational licenses
Your input will help shape future investments in outdoor infrastructure and services.
📣 Take the survey here.
Resource Highlights
USDA Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI) Grants – FY 2025
The USDA is now accepting applications for its FY2025 Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI) grants. These support nonprofits, Tribes, and public agencies working to strengthen housing, community, and economic development in rural areas — including recreation and tourism initiatives.
- Grants: $50,000–$500,000
- Match: 1:1 cash required
- Eligible uses: Technical assistance, leadership training, and capacity building
- Deadlines:
- Grants.gov submission: by August 7 at 11:59 p.m. ET
- Paper applications: received by August 12 at 4:00 p.m. local time
📄 Learn more here.
Get Ready: 2025 Launch of the MN Department of Revenue’s E-Bike Rebate
The Minnesota Department of Revenue has launched its E-Bike Rebate Program — and the first application window opened on July 30. The program aims to expand access to e-bikes through a lottery-based rebate system for qualifying individuals.
Eligibility includes:
- Must be a full-year MN resident in 2023, 2024, and 2025
- Filed MN income tax returns in 2023 and 2024
- At least 15 years old and not claimed as a dependent in 2024
Applicants must either:
- Meet income limits (AGI below $78,000 MFJ, $62,000 HOH, or $41,000 others), or
- Qualify as an individual with a disability (SSI, SSDI, MA-EPD, etc.)
Application details:
- Opens: July 30 at 11:00 a.m. CT
- Closes: August 7 at 2:00 p.m. CT
- One application per person; duplicate entries will be removed
📄 Sign up for updates and apply.
ICYMI: EDA Disaster Supplemental Grants Still Available
The U.S. Economic Development Administration’s FY2025 Disaster Supplemental Grant Program supports recovery and resiliency projects — including those related to outdoor recreation infrastructure.
📄 Program details.
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