Policy factors influencing the establishment of state outdoor recreation offices

Abstract

The first state-based office of outdoor recreation was established in 2013, and other states took notice. Within six years, thirteen additional states had established outdoor recreation offices – six of which were established in 2019. By applying concepts explored through policy innovation and diffusion theory, this research provides insight into the rapid acceleration of the creation of state outdoor recreation offices. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of policy entrepreneurs and diffusion mechanisms. Specifically, we analyze the potential role of the policy learning, economic competition, and geographic proximity diffusion mechanisms. Data collected from in-depth, semi-structured interviews with state office leadership and non-profit organizations suggest that the policy learning mechanism acts most strongly to drive the establishment of state outdoor recreation offices or similar entities. By creating networks of government agencies focused on outdoor recreation, government officials and outdoor recreation advocates can facilitate further learning about and development of these offices. Management implicationsThis research suggests that the most expedient pathway toward a state outdoor recreation office is through peer-to-peer policy learning. Participation in the National Governors Association Outdoor Recreation Learning Network can help facilitate this policy learning process for state governments. State governments are also encouraged to work directly with a sponsoring state, which is required to sign onto the Confluence Accords. In doing so, states with existing offices can systemically transfer their institutional knowledge to other state governments. While this paper focuses on the outdoor recreation offices themselves, the broader implication is that states with effective outdoor recreation offices are positioned to provide direct, institutional support for expanding outdoor recreation opportunities and their associated economic, social, and environmental benefits. This research focuses on this phenomenon in the United States, however learning networks could facilitate opportunities for learning amongst global governmental agencies looking to support outdoor recreation as well.