Innovative Summit Charts New Course for Outdoor Recreation
In an unprecedented gathering of industry pioneers and decision-makers, the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) successfully hosted the inaugural Outdoor Recreation Technology & Innovation Summit. Held at Booz Allen Hamilton’s Helix Center for Innovation in Washington, D.C., this event attracted a who’s who of business minds, policy shapers, and tech innovators committed to advancing the future of America’s $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy.
A Collaborative Vision for the Future
Jessica Turner, ORR President, heralded the summit as a catalyst for collaboration, emphasizing its role in driving technological advancements that will ensure the sustainability of outdoor activities. “With the bipartisan EXPLORE Act, we aim to expand opportunities, enhance stewardship, and promote connectivity,” Turner remarked. As stated in Woodall's Campground Magazine, the summit became a melting pot for sharing insights on how technology could align with environmental stewardship and broaden access to outdoor spaces.
Keynote Highlights & Insightful Dialogues
Opening remarks set an energetic tone for the day, with speeches from prominent figures including ORR President Jessica Turner, COO of Booz Allen Hamilton Kristine Martin Anderson, and SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. The itinerary was marked by enlightening discussions, such as a fireside chat between Senator John Hickenlooper and Chairman Bruce Westerman, moderated by Turner, delving into bipartisan policy approaches for outdoor recreation.
Integrating Technology and Ecosystem
One of the pivotal themes of the summit was leveraging technology to support land and water management. Various panel discussions showcased innovative products that enhance public engagement and participation in outdoor activities. Industry leaders like Erik Mogensen from Indy Pass and Josh Spitzer from OnX Maps introduced their groundbreaking tools that aim to make outdoor exploration more intuitive and accessible.
Forging Ahead: The Role of Technology
“The summit highlighted the significance of technological integration in modernizing recreation data and management systems,” noted Frank Hugelmeyer, Chief Executive Officer of the National Marine Manufacturers Association. Discussions underscored the role of private-public partnerships in offering real-time information and expanding equitable access to outdoor resources.
Towards a Resilient Future
As the day closed with an evening reception, where the importance of bipartisan support through the congressional Public Lands Caucus was celebrated, the energy was palpable. The ORR’s mission to unite various sectors under a common goal—to protect and expand the nation’s outdoor recreation—was loud and clear.
Acknowledging Support
This ambitious summit was realized through the backing of numerous sponsors, reflecting the integral role of private industry in outdoor recreational advancement. Their shared commitment ensures that America’s public lands and waters will remain vibrant, accessible, and sustainable for generations to come.
As ORR continues to spearhead these efforts, the promise of a future where technology harmonizes with nature feels increasingly attainable, setting a new benchmark for stewardship and ecosystem resilience.
