May 15, 2025 · Program Impact, Stories
Alabama’s Bold Bet on Outdoor Recreation
Last month, more than 200 outdoor recreation leaders, entrepreneurs, students and public officials gathered at Lake Guntersville State Park for the inaugural Innovate Alabama Outdoor Recreation Summit. Against the backdrop of one of Alabama’s most breathtaking state parks, the message was clear: the outdoors isn’t just for weekends, it’s central to the state’s economic future.
“Outdoor recreation is not just a lifestyle amenity — it’s a strategic asset. We’re building a future where Alabama’s trails, rivers and parks are part of the toolkit for attracting talent, supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening communities.”
– T.C. McLemore, Executive Director of Outdoor Recreation Programs at Innovate Alabama
The summit brought together voices from across sectors and all corners of the state to explore how Alabama’s natural assets can fuel innovation, small business development and workforce growth. Attendees left energized, not just by the views of Lake Guntersville, but by a shared vision for the state’s future – a future where outdoor recreation plays a starring role.
Partnerships Propel Progress
From breakout sessions to keynotes, one theme echoed throughout: collaboration is the key to unlocking Alabama’s outdoor potential. Whether connecting public lands to local economies or aligning state agencies with entrepreneurs, strong partnerships are already creating momentum, and the summit only deepened those connections.
“When we have a board meeting, it isn’t all about business. We are asking, ‘Who did you meet on the trail?’ ‘Who might be a new volunteer for us?’ All of our people are practicing intentional relationships,” said Chase Draper, President of Birmingham Urban Mountain Peddlers.
Rooted in Place
A powerful takeaway for attendees was the importance of understanding what already exists. As one of the most biodiverse states, every Alabama community has access to some form of outdoor asset—whether it’s a trail system, a riverfront or a public park. The challenge (and opportunity) lies in knowing how to leverage those assets for economic and social impact.
“How do we engage people?” pondered Jacob Richards, GIS Data Manager, Alabama Trails Foundation. “We have to meet them where they are.”
Adventure-Driven Retention
Alabama’s outdoor spaces aren’t just beautiful — they’re magnetic. The summit underscored how the state’s unique quality of life, rooted in access to nature, is helping it stand out in the race for top talent and new business. People want to live, work and raise families in places where they can thrive both professionally and personally. The Yellowhammer State is proving to be one of those places.
“This has been an opportunity to connect with the natural side of Alabama. We talk a lot about cities and quality of life experience with the Student Retention Council, but parks and recreation are a huge part of that,” said Brian Niswonger, a student at the University of Alabama at Huntsville. “Getting involved in wildlife resources and seeing what that side of living in Alabama looks like is always a good time.”
Outdoor Experiences, Long-Term Impact
With its first Outdoor Recreation Summit, Innovate Alabama has made it clear: this is just the beginning. By putting the outdoors at the center of its innovation and talent strategies, the state is carving out a bold path — one where economic growth and natural beauty go hand in hand.
Special thanks to Alabama Power Foundation, official sponsor of the Outdoor Recreation Summit, for their support of our mission.
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