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.
OREC Programs and Funding
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.
Colorado Outdoor Recreation Rural Technical Assistance Program
Partners teams of graduate students from the Masters of the Environment (MENV) program at CU Boulder with the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office, CSU Extension, and the US EPA’s Recreation Economy for Rural Communities (RERC) program to provide planning assistance for outdoor recreation and Main Street development for rural communities in Colorado.
Impact Areas
Economic Development
Advance economic prosperity for all of Colorado through the outdoor recreation industry.
Conservation and Stewardship
Engage the outdoor recreation industry in conservation, and sustainable and inclusive access to lands, waters, and climate.
Education and Workforce Training
Support diverse and inclusive education and training pathways that will meet the needs of the outdoor recreation industry.
Public Health and Wellness
Improve the health and wellness of all Coloradans through outdoor recreation.