New ND State Park Adds Weight to Great Outdoors Month Message

Submitted Photo North Dakota’s Pembina Gorge Recreation Area will soon become the state’s 14th state park, with a 55-site campground and six full-service, all-season cabins. Photo provided by North Dakota Parks and Recreation.

June is Outdoors Month, and messages about embracing the outdoors are often associated with national park sites. But industry voices say public sites shouldn’t be overlooked because of their drawing power.

North Dakota recently initiated the transformation of the Pembina Gorge Recreation Area into a state park, and Whitney Potter Schwartz, senior vice president of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, applauded such moves.

“North Dakota is truly doing amazing things when it comes to outdoor recreation investments,” » said Potter Schwartz. “And when these investments are made in local communities and on our public lands, it can truly transform our economies and our quality of life.” »

She said many outdoor-focused businesses are small businesses that are cornerstones of their communities, especially in rural areas.

Potter Schwartz also credited North Dakota for becoming the latest state to create an office of outdoor recreation.

The sector generates nearly $1.4 billion in economic activity statewide, and officials say that with the new site, visitor spending is expected to increase.

Potter Schwartz said getting outside has been shown to be good for people’s health, and his organization wants to ensure everyone has access to it.

“There are so many benefits – whether it’s health benefits or economic benefits – to being outdoors that we truly, truly believe that everyone should have this opportunity. » said Potter Schwartz, “whatever your background or ability, to truly experience it and enjoy nature.”

She said having sites that are more formal and have greater visibility can only help break down barriers to access.

Potter Schwartz said it’s important to remember that enjoying nature in a recreational setting can also improve your mental health.

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