23-04-2025
Leaders weigh the future of outdoor recreation in Vermont
COLCHESTER, Vt (ABC22/FOX44) – Outdoor recreation contributes 4.8% to Vermont's gross domestic product – that's $2.1 billion.
But as uncertainty continues to swirl around tariffs and other proposed federal changes, industry leaders are looking towards an unclear future.
Kelly Ault, executive director of the Vermont Outdoor Business Alliance, say their concerns are two-fold.
'We're concerned about the impact of tariffs on a number outdoor businesses. The other element we're concerned about is reduced visitation to our state during the really important tourism season,' Ault explains.
She says their metrics are already showing an anticipated reduction in visitors from the north and abroad, and the back and fourth in Washington is only hindering decision making for businesses and tourists alike.
'They've been trying to navigate export options with their suppliers,' Ault says, 'trying to see if they can cut costs so they can have fund when and if they need it.'
A number of hospitality businesses are echoing the value of relationships they've built with international visitors while simultaneously trying to reach new demographics to fill the anticipated gap.
'Can we encourage Vermonters to do some stay-cations this spring and summer, can we reach out to other markets across the U.S. to come visit our state.'
Ault highlights efforts by local policy makers aimed at supporting these businesses.
'The legislature is looking at a bill that would support some technical assistance with service providers that can really support small businesses in making those decisions, protecting themselves, and just becoming more nimble for the uncertainty ahead,' Ault explains.
One of the best ways you can help in the interim? Shopping local and supporting those brick-and-mortar stores.
Ault hopes that the shared love of the outdoors can be used to heal tensions and strengthen ties with our neighbors to the north and beyond.
'We're still the same Vermont that people know and love,' Ault emphasizes. 'Our values have not changed. We hope people can come visit when they can.'
The VOBA recently released a report detailing the federal impacts on Vermont's outdoor recreation sector – you can find that report here.
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