WHEREAS, Outdoor recreation in Washington state is a foundation of
our state's quality of life in both urban and rural parts of the state;
and
WHEREAS, Our state's history, identity, and culture is intertwined
with the outdoor recreational opportunities provided in this state; and
WHEREAS, Washington state has an unsurpassed diversity of outdoor
recreation for our state's citizens and for people around the world who
visit Washington state to experience our state's outdoor recreational
opportunities; and
WHEREAS, Outdoor recreational businesses comprise an important part
of our state's economy, from worldwide leaders in retail and
manufacturing to small businesses in every corner of the state; and
WHEREAS, The national Outdoor Industry Alliance has calculated the
economic impact of outdoor recreation in Washington state to be eleven
billion seven hundred million dollars; and
WHEREAS, Outdoor recreation supports one hundred fifteen thousand
jobs in Washington state; and
WHEREAS, A diverse group of over two dozen outdoor recreation
businesses, user groups, and nonprofits called the Big Tent Outdoor
Coalition has established the first-ever recognition of Washington
state's outdoor recreation economy;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate
recognizes the significance of outdoor recreation to Washington state's
economy, citizens, and quality of life; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate today
celebrates outdoor recreation in Washington state; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be
immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to the members
of the Big Tent Outdoor Coalition.