Outdoor Recreation

Western Mass Outdoor Recreation: A Thriving, Collaborative Force for Regional Growth

Named an “Other Critical” industry in the Pioneer Valley Labor Market Blueprint—with a projected growth potential of an astounding 107% by 2030—the Outdoor Recreation sector is rapidly emerging as one of Western Massachusetts’ most exciting economic drivers. But it's not just about growth—it's about collaboration, innovation, and impact.

At the heart of this momentum is the Franklin Hampshire Workforce Board, which hosts quarterly convenings of nearly 40 dedicated stakeholders from across the region. These dynamic gatherings fuel rich dialogue and cross-sector collaboration, sparking new opportunities in workforce development, grantmaking, partnership-building, and resource sharing.

Together, this group is shaping the future of Outdoor Recreation in Western Mass—ensuring it remains a powerful, inclusive, and sustainable engine of economic opportunity for years to come.