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SALT LAKE CITY — Amid the Outdoor Retailer show, which draws in thousands of out-of-state visitors to Utah each year, the director of Utah's newly created Office of Outdoor Recreation is singing the trade show's praises.
"Clearly it's one of the biggest drivers of the Utah economy," said Brad Peterson, director of the office.
The show brings in approximately 27,000 manufacturers and store owners to downtown Salt Lake City. Peterson is among the visitors walking the floor of the Salt Palace this week.
At an enormous presentation of all things outdoor, the products displayed illustrated how big the industry is. About $2 billion is spent annually in Utah to enjoy outdoor activities, and the industry employs more than 120,000 Utahns.
Petersen has been on the job for just a couple of weeks: his mission is take industry and make it even bigger.
"It's the first of its kind in the country," Peterson said of the department he heads. "There's no other outdoor recreation position at the state level and governor's level that has the kind of authority to go out there and try to help the economy.
Governor Gary Herbert announced the creation of the new office in January and outlined Utah's vision for the future as far as outdoor recreation is concerned. Outdoor industry leaders praised the move.
Related:
6 must-see spots at the Outdoor Retailer show
It's that time of year again: Outdoor sport enthusiasts are flocking to Utah from across the country to see their favorite brands' latest and greatest products."Most importantly we applaud the governor for recognizing outdoor recreation as an economic driver and we look forward to working with Brad in the next several years," said Frank Hugelmeyer, president and CEO of the Outdoor Industry Association.
Petersen said his priorities are to grow Utah's recreation and promote Utah at the same time — and to do it in a responsible way as more people are venturing outside.
"We want to protect our way of life, as well as the economy in making sure we have a balanced land management plan," Peterson said.
The outdoor show runs through Saturday and has continued to grow year after year; attendance is up three to five percent compared to 2012.
