PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • January 22, 2026
Industry leaders say Maine is off to a strong start on a plan to grow the state’s outdoor recreation economy by 10% in 10 years. The Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation, Maine Outdoor Brands and other partners launched the plan a year ago to establish the sector as a pillar of the state’s economy. More than 400 government officials, policymakers, educators, business owners, nonprofit workers and outdoor enthusiasts have gathered in Portland this week for an annual summit to talk about how to meet their goals despite economic and logistical challenges.