Planning for the Future of Alabama's Outdoors.
Outdoor recreation in Alabama enhances the health and quality of life for everyone by offering a variety of experiences that embrace social, environmental, and economic sustainability.
In our state, outdoor recreation comes in many different forms, such as walking, jogging, hiking, biking, horseback riding, paddling, boating, riding ATVs, hunting, fishing, camping, bird watching, and all types of organized (and unorganized!) sports.
ALABAMA'S 2021 SCORP
The Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) is an essential statewide planning document that identifies outdoor recreation opportunities and needs by assessing the supply and demand for outdoor recreation facilities both regionally and across our state.
This document also defines a collective strategy for partners throughout the state to work together to enhance the delivery of outdoor recreation services and to Alabama’s citizens.
This 14-month planning process involved the input of over 2,000 Alabama residents, 800 recreation providers, and 60 key stakeholder organizations who participated in surveys and facilitated meetings.
5 REASONS WHY OUTDOOR RECREATION IS SO IMPORTANT TO ALABAMA.
- According to the Outdoor Industry Association, outdoor recreation has an annual economic impact of $14 billion on Alabama’s economy through direct consumer spending!
- The outdoor recreation industry supports twice as many jobs as auto manufacturing in our state. It provides $3.9 billion in wages and salaries and $857 million in state and local tax revenue.
- Communities that provide a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities have a better quality of life, making them more attractive places to call home. These communities are better positioned to compete for talented workforces and to attract corporate relocations.
- Communities with outdoor recreation destinations can benefit significantly from a large and growing outdoor recreation tourism market, supporting retail and hospitality opportunities in these places.
- What is healthy for the economy is also healthy for residents. Studies show that people who live in communities with parks, greenspace, and safe walking and biking opportunities are more likely to achieve recommended physical activity levels, which helps reduce obesity-related diseases and supports social and emotional well-being.
PROJECT PARTNERS
ADECA has commissioned The University of Alabama Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER) and The University of Alabama Center for Economic Development (UACED) to conduct a five-year update of the SCORP.
