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Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office

Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office

The Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office (OREC) provides a central point of contact, advocacy, and resources at the state level for the diverse constituents, businesses, and communities that rely on the continued health of the outdoor recreation economy.

OREC's mission is to champion industry, communities, and people to come to life through Colorado’s great outdoors.

Colorado’s outdoor recreation industry accounts for $13.9 billion in value-added (GDP) annually and contributed 130,000 direct jobs in 2022. According to the 2017 SCORP report, 92% of Colorado residents participate in outdoor recreation each year. Colorado’s outdoor economy contributes to a higher quality of life, making people and communities happier and healthier.

We are privileged to live in a state that has no rival when it comes to our iconic natural landscapes. From our 22 million acres of public land, 105,344 miles of rivers, 690 peaks over 13,000 feet, and expansive vistas of prairies, mountain valleys, and desert canyons, these spaces are central to Colorado’s lifestyle, heritage, identity, and world-class recreation economy.

Connect with our office

OREC Programs and Funding

Outdoor Recreation Industry Impact Fund (ORIIF)
This grant allows outdoor recreation industry businesses and nonprofits impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic to hire new employees and/or retain existing employees through payroll assistance.

Colorado State Outdoor Recreation Grant (COSORG) 
This grant supports the outdoor recreation industry throughout Colorado to accelerate the recovery of communities that rely on the travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sectors.

Winter Outdoor Recreation Directory
This directory includes resources available in Colorado to help locals and visitors safely get outdoors in the winter.

Outdoor Industry Business Development
This program supports outdoor recreation business development through research, partnerships, trade shows, and trade and investment missions.

Colorado Outdoor Industry Leadership Summit
This annual event consists of networking, idea sharing, and expert discussions to build and sustain the outdoor recreation industry in Colorado.

All Outdoor Recreation Programs

Impact Areas

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Economic Development

Advance economic prosperity for all of Colorado through the outdoor recreation industry.

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Conservation and Stewardship

Engage the outdoor recreation industry in conservation, and sustainable and inclusive access to lands, waters, and climate.

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Education and Workforce Training

Support diverse and inclusive education and training pathways that will meet the needs of the outdoor recreation industry.

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Public Health and Wellness

Improve the health and wellness of all Coloradans through outdoor recreation.

Connect Further

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Follow us for regular updates related to the outdoor recreation economy.

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Sign up for email updates from the Outdoor Recreation Industry Office.