For Immediate Release
Media Contact:
Tyler T. Ray, Director
Granite Outdoor Alliance
tyler@graniteoutdoor.org
603-728-773
GOVERNOR AYOTTE CONTINUES STATE RECOGNITION OF NEW HAMPSHIRE OUTDOOR INDUSTRY DAY
State recognition builds on last year’s proclamation and highlights the continued growth of New Hampshire’s $4.2 billion outdoor recreation economy.
June 3, 2026 – Continuing the momentum of the 2025 proclamation, Governor Kelly Ayotte will officially recognize June 10, 2026, as New Hampshire Outdoor Industry Day, highlighting the outdoor sector’s growing role in the state’s economy, workforce, and community vitality.
This year’s proclamation builds on the State’s first recognition of Outdoor Industry Day in 2025 and reinforces the role of outdoor recreation as a growing economic driver for New Hampshire. According to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis Outdoor Recreation Satellite Account, outdoor recreation contributed $4.2 billion in value-added to the New Hampshire economy in 2024, accounting for 3.5 percent of state GDP and supporting more than 33,000 jobs. New Hampshire also ranks 8th nationally for the contribution of outdoor recreation to state GDP.
“New Hampshire’s outdoor industry plays a critical role in showcasing what makes our state so special — our natural beauty, strong communities, and independent spirit,” said Governor Ayotte. “It also plays a major role in our economy by supporting jobs, attracting visitors, and helping businesses grow across the Granite State. I’m proud to proclaim June 10 as New Hampshire Outdoor Industry Day and recognize the businesses, workers, and community partners who help keep this important industry thriving.”
Outdoor Industry Day brings together state and local leaders, business owners, nonprofit organizations, public partners, and outdoor industry advocates to celebrate the sector’s impact and strengthen collaboration around its future growth.
In partnership with the Governor’s proclamation, Granite Outdoor Alliance will host Outdoor Industry Day 2026: The Barn Raiser at The Barn on the Pemi in Plymouth, New Hampshire. The Barn Raiser is GOA’s annual gathering designed to bring New Hampshire’s outdoor industry together to celebrate progress, lift industry leadership, and build momentum for what comes next. This year’s event will include the release of GOA’s Grounded Growth Report, industry awards, a featured keynote by Erik Mogensen, and the return of the Rock Walk Fashion Show.
“Last year’s proclamation gave Outdoor Industry Day official statewide recognition. This year is about building on that momentum,” said Tyler Ray, Director of Granite Outdoor Alliance. “The
Barn Raiser reflects the spirit of this industry: people showing up, pitching in, and building something bigger than themselves. New Hampshire’s outdoor businesses are creating jobs, driving innovation, supporting local economies, and helping define the Granite State’s competitive advantage. This event is a chance to celebrate that work and strengthen the relationships that will carry it forward.”
The State’s Department of Business and Economic Affairs Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry Development has helped position outdoor recreation as a key part of New Hampshire’s broader economic development strategy, connecting the sector to workforce, business recruitment, tourism, manufacturing, rural development, and quality-of-life priorities.
“Outdoor recreation is a powerful driver of economic growth, workforce attraction, and community vitality across New Hampshire,” said Janel Lawton, Director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry Development. “As the second largest industry in the state, Outdoor Industry Day is an opportunity to recognize the businesses, guides, manufacturers, retailers, and tourism partners who generate such significant economic activity while showcasing the natural assets that make our state a first-rate destination. As we celebrate Outdoor Industry Day, we affirm our commitment to building the public-private collaboration needed to support long-term growth.”
The 2026 Outdoor Industry Day recognition comes as New Hampshire’s outdoor recreation economy continues to demonstrate strong momentum. BEA reports that the sector saw the largest recorded increase in New Hampshire outdoor recreation GDP in 2024 compared to the prior year, with more than 1,300 new jobs created. The state’s outdoor economy spans all four seasons and includes activities such as snow sports, boating, fishing, hiking, camping, hunting, biking, and paddling, while also supporting related industries, including lodging, dining, manufacturing, retail, and construction.
Outdoor Industry Day 2026: The Barn Raiser will take place on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, in Plymouth. The event is open to outdoor businesses, nonprofit organizations, public partners, community leaders, and anyone interested in supporting New Hampshire’s outdoor economy.
To learn more and RSVP for the event, visit
https://www.graniteoutdooralliance.org/nh-outdoor-industry-day.
Press Contact:
Tyler Ray
Granite Outdoor Alliance
603-728-7739
About Granite Outdoor Alliance
Granite Outdoor Alliance is a nonprofit business alliance that supports New Hampshire’s outdoor industry, including brands, retailers, nonprofits, recreation service providers, and individuals. Granite Outdoor Alliance promotes outdoor recreation as a critical anchor for economic development, workforce attraction, community vitality, and quality of life across New
Hampshire.
Read Governor Ayotte’s Proclamation
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About Granite Outdoor Alliance
Granite Outdoor Alliance is a nonprofit business alliance that supports New Hampshire's outdoor industry, including brands, retailers, nonprofits, recreation service providers, and individuals. Granite Outdoor Alliance promotes outdoor recreation as a critical anchor for economic development, workforce attraction, community vitality, and quality of life across New Hampshire.
Photography: Courtesy of Granite Outdoor Alliance, captured by Joe Klementovich